City delays vote

The El Campo City Council delayed a vote on extending an apartment project’s planned development agreement, causing charges of racism and vote blocking. TriArc Real Estate Partners requested an 18-month extension due to changes in the financial market and rising interest rates on loans. Councilman Blake Barger called for a delay until after the May 6 election, which three members opposed, including the only two women of color on the council. Postponing the discussions until after the election leaves very little time for a decision before the agreement expires on May 13.