The city of Kyle is finalizing the hire of Ken Johnson to the position of city attorney.

City Council unanimously approved tabbing Johnson as its second-ever in-house attorney at a special-called meeting Jan. 12.

Johnson, formerly an assistant city attorney in the city of Waco, will be brought on to replace Julian Grant, who resigned in March. Since Grant's resignation, Assistant City Attorney Cody Faulk and a contract attorney have filled in. It was announced Jan. 21 at a city council meeting that Faulk will leave the city pending Johnson's arrival.

In addition to providing legal services to the city, the new city attorney will be charged with taking on water provider Monarch Utilities in the courts.

Flooded squad cars to be replaced

Two Kyle Police Department patrol vehicles damaged in the Halloween floods are set to be replaced after council approved on Jan. 21 a budget amendment allowing for their replacement.

Police officers in two separate instances responded to calls while severe flooding descended on much of Central Texas. The officers drove the vehicles into areas of high water that rendered each vehicle unsafe for operating, Police Chief Jeff Barnett said.

Both of the units were 2008 Crown Victorias, he said.

The budget amendment moves about $20,000 from the city's fund balance to pay for the replacements.

Noise ordinance amendment

KPD could begin a clamp-down on motorists who play loud music in their cars.

The first reading of an amendment to the city's noise ordinance passed through the council on unanimous approval. The amendment includes restrictions on music emanating from motor vehicles.

Motorists playing music audible from at least 30 feet away or producing vibrations that can be felt at least 30 feet away would be in violation of the proposed ordinance.

Councilman David Wilson asked Barnett how restrictions would be enforced.

"We'll have our officers use their judgment," Barnett said. "If anyone can hear it when you're outside, it's too loud."