Chad Martin

The City of Wilder's annual report for 2024-2025 highlights the city's commitment to delivering quality, community-focused municipal services with an emphasis on public safety, neighborhood livability, job creation, and responsible economic growth. Key strategic goals include sensible growth, economic resiliency, and fiscal conservatism. The report showcases accomplishments such as balancing the budget, publishing annual reports, supporting local businesses, improving communication with residents, and enhancing public safety and infrastructure. It also outlines upcoming activities and projects in parks and recreation, public works, and community events.

The City Council of the City of Wilder discussed and amended the personnel policy by updating the salary ranges based on changes to the 2025/2026 budget. The updated pay plan was attached to the ordinance.

The council meeting included the approval of financial reports and payment of bills. Ordinances were approved regarding amendments to the police department policy and procedures manual (social media and police chaplain policies), a supplement to the Code of Ordinances, and an amendment to the Official Zoning Map. Citizen comments addressed parking on Alanna Drive. Reports were given by the city administrator (server issues), police chief (upcoming police chiefs meeting, officer commendations), and fire chief. Discussion also included trash/recycling pickup times, the closing of the 275 ramp, and road work on Langview Drive.

The council reviewed police and fire department activity reports, discussed the acquisition of properties located at 521 & 523 Licking Pike, and addressed updates to the city webpage. Discussion included the city-wide yard sale, the 2012/2013 audit, the street budget, Licking River Greenway signage, and a potential liquor license ordinance. Council members also addressed questions regarding dredging, a Verizon pole/antenna, and the timeline for approving the liquor license ordinance. The meeting concluded with reports from the police and fire chiefs, including information on a police memorial, Kids Fest, and the city's improved I.S.O. rating.

The City Council meeting agenda includes the second reading of Ordinance No. 23-0801, concerning annual waste collection/recycling service charges; the first reading of Ordinance No. 23-0902, regarding ad valorem tax rates for 2023 and waste collection/recycling rates for 2024; and Resolution No. 23-0901, authorizing a three-year contract with Best Way Disposal of Indiana, Inc., for curbside solid waste collection and recycling. Reports from the City Administrator, Assistant City Administrator, Treasurer, Police Chief, and Fire Chief are also on the agenda, along with unfinished and new business, an open forum, and adjournment.