City of Rutland

The board discussed the search for a new Fire Chief, including the nomination of Mark Monroe, and tabled related requests regarding his appointment and the Emergency Management Director position. The Treasurer reviewed the January financial report, highlighting concerns regarding the unassigned fund balance and budget expenses, and referred the report to the Finance Committee. The board approved the recommendation of the City Owned Property Committee to authorize the sale of 114 Gibson Avenue to Mr. Rudolfo Jacobson. Additionally, the board approved an event request for the Shiver Me Shamrocks 5K Run/Walk and moved into executive session to discuss a contract negotiation, ultimately ratifying a Joint Use Agreement with GMP.

The Board reviewed and opened bids for road reconstruction at Avenue B and Center Street Firehouse, awarding the contract to Belden Company for $79,000.00. A re-bid for the Center Street Parklets project was opened, and the contract was awarded to Naylor and Breen in the amount of $18,744.00. Additionally, the Board approved a sole source purchase for a pick-up head for a sweeper from Tenco for $4,186.54, with funds allocated from the vehicle maintenance repair line.

The board reviewed proposals for the demolition of 90 Strongs Avenue due to safety concerns. The board accepted a recommendation to award the demolition contract to Tom Pritchard for $14,800.00. Additionally, the Mayor addressed the handling of tax abatements regarding the property.

The board conducted various administrative actions, including confirming mayoral appointments for Ward 3 Clerk, Cemetery Commissioner, and City Planning Commission. Key discussion topics included the formal recognition of tree planting on West Street, the referral of a proposed amended dog ordinance to the Charter & Ordinance Committee, and the referral of an emergency management plan to Public Safety. The Board approved the designation of the Treasurer as the Post Issuance Compliance Officer and adopted a new taxi ordinance with associated fees. Various Special Events Permits were approved for local events, including the Mike O'Malley 5K, Winter in August, and the Feast of the Assumption Parish picnic. The meeting concluded with Alderman Wallstrom's resignation and discussion regarding a city/town sewer agreement.

The Board discussed initiatives concerning housing development and potential Tax Increment Finance (TIF) districts. Administrative updates regarding upcoming elections and debates were provided. Several requests were approved, including Business Incentive and Assistance Program (BIAP) loans and grants for local businesses, a Special Event Permit for a charity walk, and a pole and wire request. The meeting covered emergency alerting plans and an agreement for urban search and rescue training. The Recreation Department presented updates on a pilot swim lesson program, the Main Street Park project, and a new mountain bike lending program for youth. Additionally, the Board reviewed financial reports and referred a proposal to separate water and sewer bills to a committee.