Disaster declaration extended

The Marlin City Council met virtually on April 14, where they approved extending the disaster declaration on the City of Marlin.

The original proclamation had the disaster declaration scheduled to end 30 days from March 17. It is now extended to match Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s March 31 social distancing order. On April 12, Abbott renewed his March 13 State of Disaster for another 30 days, meaning the State of Texas will be under a state of disaster until May 12 at the earliest. 

The council also officially postponed the May 2 election for Precinct 4 until Nov. 4 with Ordinance No. 20-004. 

Rate changes for telecommunication lines, distribution within the city, and from Oncor electricity were blocked as well, ensuring that citizens will not see bill increases. 

 “They all say the same thing, which is to deny,” said City Secretary Maryann Waddle during the meeting. “We understand people don’t want to raise the rent.”

Oncor was seeking a total increase in $75,889,531, which would impact anyone within city limits using electricity. 

Ordinance No. 20-005 addresses the denying of the rate changes in respect to an emergency and and Resolution No. 20-004 addresses Oncor’s distribution rate changes.

The City of Marlin is still open and working during this difficult time. Payments can be made at the drive-through window between 8 a.m. and noon Monday through Friday for in-person service, including a payment receipt. 

The drop off box is open 24-hours per day, seven days a week. Citizens who pay by the drop box should keep their own record of payment in lieu of receipt.

For important matters, access to the building can be obtained by calling (254) 883-1450 and making an appointment with the appropriate department. Only one non-employee will be allowed entry at any given point in time and will have to undergo COVID-19 related questioning. These matters will be handled between the hours of 8 a.m. and 12 p.m.

Citizens are reminded that city employees are working full days, but some are completing the second half of the work day in their own homes.

According to Mayor Carolyn Lofton, this decision was made in consideration of Governor Abbott’s March 13 executive order concerning public health and the importance of staying home. 

“As many people that could work from home; that is what is supposed to have been done,” Mayor Lofton explained to Mayor Pro-tem Scottie Henderson during the April 14 meeting. “That’s what we did.”

For the latest information on the City of Marlin, head to www.marlintx.net.