$355K Police Vehicle Approved, $107K Hydrant Help Granted And Leaders Launch Dispatch Center Study

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City Council

Princeton City Council’s March 9 meeting covered resident concerns about city spending, help for a local business, a new armored police vehicle, and early steps toward potentially creating the city’s own emergency dispatch center. Several votes passed unanimously as the city prepares for continued growth.

Residents Push Council To Review Spending Decisions

During public comments, residents asked the council to take a closer look at past financial decisions, including the community center project and other recent approvals.

One resident said an audit of the community center should not simply be filed away but used to improve how future projects are handled. Concerns were also raised about the cost of redesigning the multi-generation center, which was estimated at roughly $750,000.

Residents also suggested the city review how contracts are awarded and ensure more companies have a chance to bid on projects.

Calls To Improve Process For Small Local Businesses

Another concern raised by residents was how small entrepreneurs navigate city processes.

One speaker said large builders often have staff who understand city procedures, while small business owners may struggle through the same requirements. The suggestion was for the city to review how projects involving local entrepreneurs are handled and identify ways to make the process easier.

City Approves $107K Help For Princeton Pediatrics Fire Hydrant

Council approved up to $107,000 to help cover the cost of installing a required fire hydrant at Princeton Pediatrics.

City leaders said the requirement came after conflicting interpretations of fire code between previous and current fire marshals. Because the issue was not caused by the business owner, the Princeton Economic Development Corporation voted to help offset the infrastructure cost.

The hydrant will also serve about five acres of nearby property, potentially helping future development in that area.

Police Department Gets $355K Armored Response Vehicle

Council approved $355,066 to purchase a new specialty emergency response vehicle for the Princeton Police Department.

Police leaders said the current military surplus MRAP vehicle is unreliable, difficult to drive in neighborhoods, and requires expensive maintenance. In several incidents, officers had to approach dangerous situations using regular vehicles with no protective armor.

The new vehicle will be smaller, easier to maintain, and capable of being used for emergencies, major events, and disaster response.

Officials emphasized the funding comes from city sales tax through the Community Development Corporation, not property taxes.

City Exploring Its Own Emergency Dispatch Center

Council also approved a $79,260 feasibility study to examine whether Princeton should eventually run its own emergency dispatch center.

Right now, dispatch services are handled through Collin County. City leaders say rising costs and growing call volumes make it worth studying whether operating a local system could improve response times and coordination between police, fire, and EMS.

The study will also explore partnerships with nearby cities and school districts that could share the system and help cover costs.

Council Bylaw Changes Delayed For More Review

Council members discussed several proposed updates to council bylaws and governance rules but decided to table the item for further revisions.

Officials said the document needs additional edits before coming back to council for a final vote.

The next Princeton City Council meeting is scheduled for March 23. Leaders are expected to revisit the bylaw changes and continue discussions about infrastructure, drainage concerns, and roadway updates.

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🍽️ Lunch & Learn
📅 March 11 | 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM
Legacy Church
120 Tickey Drive
Princeton, TX

A midday meetup where conversation and community go hand in hand. Grab lunch, connect with others in town, and spend a relaxed hour learning something new alongside neighbors.

💜 Fundraiser Event for Blake
📅 March 14 | 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Lakehaven Community, 3700 Richland Drive, Farmersville, TX 75442

A community fundraiser supporting the Tedesco family and their daughter Blake’s medical needs. Expect food trucks, a bounce house, face painting and a community picnic while neighbors come together to help Blake fight Mowat-Wilson Syndrome.

☕ Business & Breakfast
📅 March 17 | 7:30 AM to 9:00 AM
Solena Homes
1605 Fox Drive
Princeton, TX

🌾 Farmersville Market
📅 April 4 | 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
The Historic Onion Shed
154 S Main St, Farmersville, TX 75442

A classic small-town Saturday morning setup. Local vendors, fresh finds and Main Street charm all under the Historic Onion Shed. It is the kind of stop where you run into neighbors and leave with something you did not plan on buying but are glad you did.