Holly Owens, T.R.M.C. City Secretary
Holly Owens was hired in August 2024 as the City Secretary and Director of Development Services with 25 years of municipal government experience. Holly earned her Bachelor's Degree of Applied Arts and Science from Texas State University and earned her Texas Registered Municipal Clerk Certification from the University of North Texas.
The role of a city secretary is similar to that of the secretary of state. The city secretary is the local official who maintains the integrity of the election process, ensures transparency and access to city records, facilitates the city's legislative process, and is the recorder of local government history. City secretaries act as local compliance officers for federal, state, and local statutes, including the Open Meetings Act and Public Information Act, and serve as the filing authority for campaign finance reports and financial disclosure statements.
- Oversees records management program for the City according to the Texas State Library.
- Process and certify alcoholic beverage applications; TABC website.
- Process all property liens and releases of liens; Coryell County Clerk Records Search page.
- Facilitates open record requests according to the Public Information Act.
- Stay current with new legislation. Texas State Legislature
Open Records
The City Secretary is the public information coordinator for the City of Gatesville. The City Secretary's Office is responsible for coordinating with all City Departments and ensuring that all Open Records Requests are processed in a timely manner in accordance with the Texas Public Information Act and city procedures.
Keep in mind a request for information is for documents that are already in existence. A governmental body is not required to answer questions, perform legal research or comply with a continuing request to supply information on a periodic basis as such information is prepared in the future.
The Public Information Act (PIA) generally requires a governmental body to release information to a requester. However, if a governmental body determines the information is excepted from disclosure under the Public Information Act, then the request and information must be reviewed by the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) Open Records Division (ORD). The ORD will issue a decision on whether the governmental body is permitted to withhold the requested information or if it must release the information to the requester.
For police records, clink on the link for the Police Department page and form.
To submit an open records request to the City Secretary, click here.
Property Liens
Understanding Property Liens
A property lien is a legal claim against a property due to an unpaid debt. The City of Gatesville may place liens on properties for various reasons, including unpaid utility bills, code violations, or other outstanding obligations. Property liens are a serious matter and can affect the property's title and the ability to sell or transfer ownership.
Reasons for Property Liens
Code Violations
Properties found to be in violation of city codes and regulations may be subject to liens. Common violations include failure to maintain the property, unapproved structural changes, or other issues compromising public safety and welfare.
Impact of Property Liens
Property liens can have significant consequences for property owners. They can hinder the ability to sell or refinance the property, as the lien must typically be satisfied before any transfer of ownership can occur.
Checking for Property Liens
Property owners and potential buyers should conduct a thorough title search to identify any existing liens on a property. The City of Gatesville records department can provide information on property liens, and individuals are encouraged to contact the city for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
All liens shall accrue ten percent (10%) interest per annum from the date of filing. To request a payoff amount for any lien, contact the City Secretary.