Bill Brown

The meeting involved the tabling of Ordinance 2022-47, which concerns an encroachment easement, and the first reading of Ordinance 2022-60, which authorizes a contract for the 2022 pavement marking program. The council suspended the rules and adopted Ordinance 2022-60 by emergency.

The Parks Board recommended increasing compensation for pool staff: Pool Manager ($15.00/hour), Assistant Manager ($13.00/hour), and Lifeguards ($12.00/hour). The council discussed the funding source for these increases and the necessity of competitive pay to ensure the pool's opening. Ordinance 2021-37, amending Ordinance 2021-31 to establish the new compensation, was adopted by emergency.

The meeting addressed several ordinances. Ordinance 2019-31 was tabled for a third reading at a later date. Ordinance 2019-55 was permanently removed from the agenda. Ordinances 2019-54, 2019-56, and 2019-58 were given second and first readings, with Ordinance 2019-58 being adopted as amended and by emergency. Ordinance 2019-59, authorizing a contract with Bain Enterprises for a water valve exercising and maintenance trailer, was also adopted by emergency after discussion regarding funding sources. Future meeting dates were announced.

The council meeting covered various reports and actions. Key discussion points included a report from State Senator Gavarone, updates on several committees, the mayor's report on local business transitions and infrastructure projects, a report from the service director on roadwork and grant funding, and a detailed finance director's report on rebates, software updates, refinancing, insurance savings, and income tax collection. A significant portion of the meeting focused on the approval of an agreement with LifeCare Ambulance for managed IT services, replacing the existing contract with MCPC. Discussion also included a proposal for addressing boat dockage issues and several ordinances were reviewed and acted upon.

The council meeting addressed several key issues. Correspondence regarding dissatisfaction with the cancellation of the Festival of the Fish and concerns about the 6:00 pm siren were read into the record. Committee reports provided updates on various meetings and projects. Public comments included discussions about the removal of "Thin Blue Line" flags, the history of the siren, and the cancellation of the Festival of the Fish. The Mayor's report detailed the cancellation of the Fish Festival due to COVID-19 concerns, provided updates on city operations and business collaborations, and addressed concerns about the fire siren. The Finance Director's report covered appropriations, CARES Act funding, investment options, technology updates, and RITA updates. The City Engineer's report included updates on water main replacement and bridge replacement projects. Ordinances and resolutions were read and adopted, and meeting dates were announced.