STAFF REPORT
Body
OVILLA – The Ovilla City Council recently reported they are working to secure outside funding that will be used for ongoing community improvements.
In 2025 Ovilla applied for a Community Development Block Grant through the Texas Department of Agriculture for up to $750,000 in infrastructure improvements.
Recently, the city was notified the $750,000 was reserved for Ovilla with the final approval pending the City’s Project Application, which has been appropriately submitted.
The grant will be used toward important infrastructure upgrades that will support public health and safety, and will minimize the impact on water and sewer utility funds.
This past October, the Ovilla Fire Department was also awarded up to $165,000 through the Rural VFD Assistance Program for the purchase of a brush truck.
Now, the Ovilla Fire Department, and ESD No. 2 are working to utilize these grant funds for emergency response capabilities.
Also, in 2025 Ovilla was able to execute a contract with the Texas General Land Office to receive a $300,000 grant to develop a Comprehensive Plan.
This is a long-range plan that will be a blueprint for Ovilla as the city continues to grow.
The plan includes:
• Base planning and mapping, including land use, housing, and population projections
• Infrastructure assessment and planning for water, sewer, drainage, streets, and thoroughfares
• Updates to zoning and subdivision ordinances
• Development of a Capital Improvement Program
• Updates to building codes and design standards
• An economic development plan focused on downtown and heritage areas
• Parks, recreation, and open space planning
• Public involvement and community outreach
The City of Ovilla’s Facebook stated, “The City of Ovilla remains committed to actively pursuing grants and partnerships to fund improvements, enhance services, and plan for the future, while being mindful stewards of taxpayer dollars and other city funds.
“By seeking out these external funding opportunities, Ovilla continues to make meaningful investments in infrastructure and quality of life without placing additional burden on our residents.”
