The Marble Falls Economic Development Corporation (EDC) recently approved multiple financial allocations totaling over $47,000 during its February 5 meeting. The key approvals included funding for bridge lighting at Lakeside Park and Backbone Creek, amendments to a parking lot design contract, and a community grant for the local farmers market.
$19,500 Allocated for Bridge Lighting at Lakeside Park and Backbone Creek
One of the major approvals was a $19,500 change order for Myers Concrete Construction to install light boxes on the Lakeside Park and Backbone Creek bridges. This will cover the costs of drafting, engineering, materials, and labor required for the project.
EDC Executive Director Christian Fletcher described the project as a “very minor redesign,” and the board approved the order without further discussion. The lighting addition is expected to enhance the aesthetic appeal and safety of these popular pedestrian areas.
Falls Creek Parking Lot Project Gets an Additional $20,700
The board also approved an amendment to its contract with Luck Design for additional survey and design work related to the Falls Creek parking lot. The new work includes:
- Surveying the proposed sidewalk between Main and Yett streets
- Sidewalks next to the parking lot on Avenue J and Yett
- Adding curb ramps south of Yett and Avenue J
Fletcher explained that the extra survey work was not part of the original contract, which was initially valued at $49,850. With the newly approved $20,700 amendment, the total contract cost now stands at $70,500.
$7,200 Grant Approved for Marble Falls Farmers Market
The EDC board also approved a $7,200 community leverage grant for the Marble Falls Farmers Market, which operates downtown at Main and Third streets near Harmony Park.
EDC Board President Steve Reitz voiced strong support for the farmers market, calling it “great for downtown.” City Marketing Manager Erin Burks also praised market managers Jay Brown and Kristian Eyman, emphasizing how well they have worked with the city.
In response to a question from Mayor Dave Rhodes, Brown mentioned that they hope to attract private sponsors in the future to help make the farmers market a self-sustaining event.
Additional Budget Adjustments for Fiscal Year 2025
The board also approved several amendments to the EDC Fiscal Year 2025 budget, including:
- A $126,000 revenue increase from land sales
- A $3,000 reimbursement from the City of Marble Falls
- Increased expenditures, including:
- $15,000 for special events
- $40,000 grant for the Marble Falls Inclusive Playgroup
These changes reflect the city’s continued investment in community infrastructure and events that benefit residents and businesses alike.
Finance Director Jeff Lazenby Announces Resignation
During the meeting, Marble Falls Assistant City Manager Russell Sander announced that Finance Director Jeff Lazenby will resign on February 28 to take a new position as the Chief Financial Officer of Blacksburg, Virginia.
“We thank him for his service,” said Sander, who also acknowledged the difficulty of finding a replacement for Lazenby. The search for a new finance director is already underway.
The latest EDC approvals reflect Marble Falls’ ongoing efforts to enhance infrastructure, support local businesses, and improve community spaces. From bridge lighting and sidewalk improvements to farmers market support and special event funding, these investments aim to make the city more vibrant and welcoming. With further development and community involvement, Marble Falls continues to position itself for long-term economic growth and success.
