Nacogdoches, Texas – December 8, 2025 – The City of Nacogdoches is inviting residents to apply for several volunteer positions on local boards and commissions, while city leaders received an in-depth update on four major downtown revitalization projects.
Applications are now being accepted for the following boards and commissions:
- Airport Advisory Board
- Building Standards Commission
- Health Code Advisory Committee
- Industrial Development Authority Board
- Main Street Advisory Board
- Nacogdoches Cemetery Board
The deadline to apply is 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. City Council is expected to make appointments in January 2026. Interested individuals may contact City Secretary Karen Hadnot at (936) 559-2506 or apply online at https://www.nactx.us/boardsapp.
In related city news, The Goodman Corporation presented its near-final Downtown Projects and Implementation Strategy report to the City Council on December 2, 2025. The city hired the Houston-based firm in February 2025 to prioritize downtown initiatives, refine project plans, identify funding sources, and prepare documentation needed to secure grants and implement improvements.
The report focuses on four key projects:
- Centralized Downtown Parking – Targeting the Elliott Electric Supply parking lot for shared public and business use, the plan includes a potential parking structure, funding strategies, and a proposed development timeline. Council recently approved a resolution supporting a funding request from disaster supplemental funds through the Economic Development Corporation. Despite timing challenges between construction and federal grant processes, city staff and Elliott Electric are collaborating on solutions.
- Banita Creek Promenade – A proposed linear park and trail system along Banita Creek to improve public access, connect to existing trails, and create new downtown destinations.
- Festival Park Redevelopment – Reimagining the current Festival Park with an amphitheater, permanent seating, dedicated food truck and concession areas, and enhanced parking to better host concerts, festivals, and community events.
- Public Building Reimagining – Analysis of underutilized public buildings, including the current City Hall, for potential repurposing to stimulate economic development and increase the tax base. The report highlights opportunities for historic tax credits and private-sector investment, such as hotels or mixed-use developments.
City officials praised the report as thorough, well-researched, and actionable, noting it positions Nacogdoches to pursue federal, state, and philanthropic funding more effectively. The Goodman Corporation coordinated with agencies including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to address potential environmental and regulatory concerns, particularly regarding Waters of the U.S. and navigable waterways.
The nearly final report (with minor edits pending) is available for public review on the city’s CivicClerk portal under the December 2, 2025 City Council meeting materials.
Residents are encouraged to review the document and share feedback with city leaders. Comments may be emailed to belangerk@nac.tx.us.
As the holiday season continues, city officials expressed gratitude to residents who volunteer their time and talents throughout the year, adding a heartfelt seasonal message: “I am grateful for the many people in this city who quietly care for others this holiday season… May God hold you in the palm of His hands, now and always.”