The Mineola City Council convened Monday evening for its regular meeting, welcoming three newly elected aldermen, honoring an outgoing member and approving a series of ordinances affecting local businesses and residents.
Outgoing Council Member Polly Jones was recognized for her service to the city before the swearing-in ceremony began. City Secretary Cindy Karch presented Jones with a certificate of recognition, noting that while her term officially ran from 2024 to 2026, Jones had served the council for considerably longer.

“It takes a lot to give time to volunteer for the City Council and for your citizens,” Karch said. “We just really appreciate it.”

Three new aldermen were then sworn into office: Cassandra Sampson, representing Ward 3; Jimmy Alexander, representing Ward 2; and Greg Souser, representing Ward 1. Each was administered the oath of office with family members present to hold the Bible.

The council also unanimously elected Terry Eaton as mayor pro tem for 2026-27, a position that serves as presiding officer in the absence of the mayor.

In other business, Republic Services presented a check to the Mineola Main Street program, a contribution the company representative said has been an annual tradition spanning more than two decades.

“This is my favorite thing — passing out checks annually,” said Gene Keenon of Republic Services. “The Mineola Main Street program does such a great job promoting the city.”

The council unanimously approved updated guidelines and criteria for tax abatements under Chapter 380 agreements, a requirement that must be renewed every two years for the city to offer such economic development incentives. Karch noted there were no changes from the previous version adopted two years ago.

Two ordinances were approved removing permitting requirements and fees for mobile food units and alcoholic beverage vendors following state legislation prohibiting cities from issuing and charging for such permits. The city will continue to inspect and regulate vendors but can no longer collect fees for that work.

“We still have to do the same amount of work, but we’re removing the fee,” Karch said.

The council also adopted an ordinance establishing a minimum tree canopy height of 14 feet over public rights of way, a measure prompted by the city’s acquisition of a new lift truck requiring adequate clearance on city streets. City staff said residents would have six months to bring trees into compliance before enforcement begins and that the intent is cooperation rather than fines.

“We’re not going to just start throwing fines out,” said Emergency Management Coordinator David Madsen. “We just need to make sure the trees are cleared up enough that we can get our truck through them.”

Finally, the council approved an ordinance amending solid waste collection fees to reflect a consumer price index-based rate increase, effective July 1. The council then convened in executive session to discuss economic development negotiations.