Fire Chief Dave Shoger outlined challenges in maintaining staffing levels for the Victoria Fire Department. The department currently relies on 27 paid on-call firefighters and three full-time firefighters, which has resulted in increased shift cancellations. Shoger presented a proposal to introduce two to four new “duty-free firefighter” positions, where firefighters would be required to commit to 60 hours per quarter, alleviating the obligation to respond to 25% of all service calls. This approach aims to reduce shift cancellations and improve response times. Data presented showed that duty crew shifts had response times averaging 5 minutes and 15 seconds, substantially quicker than the 7 minutes and 43 seconds under an all-call model. The council expressed support for the new model, emphasizing its potential to enhance staffing efficiency and better serve the community.

In addition to the fire department’s staffing concerns, the council’s attention shifted to the proposed R1A Oldtown Residential Zoning District. The proposal, which would affect properties from Alliance Park to Highway 5, intends to adjust bulk standards to allow for increased density while preserving neighborhood character. The R1A district would reduce the minimum lot size to 9,100 square feet, allowing for a density increase from 3.6 units per acre to approximately 4.8 units. The zoning changes also introduce twin homes and duplexes as new housing options, though multifamily structures like townhouses and triplexes are prohibited.

Public comments on the zoning proposal revealed concerns about potential increases in rental properties, particularly Section 8 housing. However, staff clarified that the proposal does not include plans for Section 8 or mobile homes. The council debated the inclusion of twin homes and duplexes, with some members opposing their introduction due to potential impacts on neighborhood character. Staff emphasized that the proposed zoning aligns with the city’s comprehensive plan, which designates the area as low-density residential.

The council considered alternatives to limit the percentage of twin homes and duplexes.

The R1A zoning would ensure that new developments align with traditional designs, with primary entrances facing the street and at least 15% of windows oriented towards the street to avoid blank walls.

In addition to zoning and fire department staffing discussions, the meeting included updates from various committees and organizations. Notably, the council proclaimed October 2025 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, with Mayor Debra McMillan urging community involvement in combatting the issue. The Southern Valley Alliance emphasized the importance of supporting victims, revealing that they assisted over 31 survivors in Victoria and received more than 2,000 calls annually.

The council also reviewed midyear reports from the senior and parks and recreation committees, which focused on community engagement efforts and infrastructure improvements. The senior committee highlighted initiatives to reach seniors without internet access, while the parks and recreation committee reported on survey results and community preferences for park amenities.