Weatherford renews retail-attraction contract; officials say development work is underway on 21-acre site

The City of Weatherford approved a one-year renewal of a retail-attraction contract with Veil Attractions at $4,000 per month (about $48,000 annually). Economic development director Yolanda told commissioners the Department of Commerce awarded a $30,000 grant to help offset the cost, leaving roughly $18,000 to come from the city department's budget.

Yolanda said Veil Attractions has contacted three prospective businesses, including one not yet announced publicly, and that the Woodmont property (21 acres) may be sold pending final development and title work. Commissioners and staff discussed forming a local review committee (TIF committee) only after receiving a formal developer request.

Commissioners approved the contract renewal by recorded vote and directed staff to continue outreach and return with committee recommendations when the developer approaches the city.

What happens next: Staff will continue business recruitment, report monthly activity and advise the commission when development requests require TIF or committee consideration.