City economic development staff reported Tuesday that Murphy continues to attract commercial investment and that staff expects a near‑term boost in sales tax revenue as new retailers open. The presentation noted strong commercial occupancy, ongoing single‑family home construction in several neighborhoods and several recently opened businesses.

Why it matters: Commercial openings and major anchors drive sales tax revenue and influence the city’s economic development strategy as officials prepare an updated master plan and strategic plan.

Key points staff presented: Staff said sales tax revenue was roughly flat year‑over‑year and cited fiscal‑year‑24 sales tax receipts of about $5.8 million. The presentation described a retail trade area population above 200,000, high regional demand for retail space, and commercial occupancy near or above 95 percent in the city’s corridors.

Major projects and timelines: Staff discussed the H‑E‑B grocery project and said the current internal estimate for opening remains "late spring/early summer," while acknowledging framing and construction are active and the date could move. Staff also said a new 60,000‑square‑foot retail center at Murphy Marketplace had broken ground and would likely open next calendar year, and that Toll Brothers has effectively sold most of its lots in a major subdivision.

Local business highlights and programs: The presentation listed 22 new businesses this year and named recent openings including Torchy's Tacos, Pixel Speed (sim racing), CityVets and Pinch A Penny. Staff described plans to revise the city's site improvement "revamp" grant program (Revive and Advance Murphy's Prosperity) and said the combined Murphy Economic Development Corporation (MDD) and Murphy Community Development Corporation (MCDC) boards have reviewed proposed revisions. Staff also said the municipal corridor social media page has been reactivated to promote local businesses and that staff is strengthening its relationship with the Murphy Chamber of Commerce to boost promotional efforts.

Master plan and strategic alignment: Economic development staff said the city began development of a strategic plan in 2025 and is coordinating that work with the ongoing Murphy master plan update; staff stressed that the economic development goals will be folded into the master plan and strategic planning work.

Council reaction and next steps: Council members who spoke praised the outreach to neighboring cities and partnerships with the Chamber. Staff said more implementation details and grant or incentive programs will be proposed in coming months.

Provenance: Economic development remarks and Q&A occurred during the presentations segment (presentation item 6E).