Christopher A. Leighty

The session began with a Public Hearing for the Annexation of parcel ID 1217DE032 located at 5679 Harper Blvd, which was unanimously approved, although the associated rezoning and variance request were denied. The subsequent Work Session included an update on the LMIG grant approval for the Harper Drive sidewalk project and work in progress for the city hall park, including ordering signage. A request was made for Waste Management to prepare a cost estimate for collecting non-regular trash items. During the City Council Session, Councilmembers Lorraine Hoover and Tommy Arnett were sworn into office. The Fiscal Year 2026 Budget was unanimously approved, and several appointments were confirmed, including Councilmember Chyna Kyles as Mayor Pro Tem. The council unanimously approved continuing the contract with Whitley Engineering Inc. and contracting with the CKH Group for the annual audit, alongside the approval of Resolution 2026-02. The Police Chief reported a 22% decrease in Part I crime for 2025 compared to 2024, and several officers completed specialized training. During Public Comment, residents discussed police conduct and code enforcement accessibility. The Mayor announced upcoming celebrations for Lake City's 75th Anniversary. Legal and personnel matters were discussed during an Executive Session.

The Work Session included updates from Public Works regarding the ordering of lights for the city hall park, repairs to the front doors, and progress on the city hall addition. The council discussed the Fiscal Year 2026 budget, approving the addition of a one-time cost of approximately $150,000.00 for police department taser replacements, to be funded from the red speed fund or technology fee. The Mayor also requested that the Land Bank representative be invited to the next meeting for a property update. During the regular session, Old Business involved approving a 180-day extension for zoning while a property owner attempts to sell the parcel at 5286 Circle Drive. New Business centered on discussing a 180-day moratorium on Gas/Auto service stations on Jonesboro Road, for which the city attorney was tasked with drafting a resolution. The Police Chief reported that Part I crime was down forty percent for November. An Executive Session was held to discuss legal matters.

The Lake City Council held a meeting where they discussed several topics. The council heard from the Vice President of CKH Group, the accounting firm taking over the city's audit report, who thanked the council for their support. The Public Works supervisor provided project updates, including the installation of pillars for the city hall expansion and the completion of the soil sample for the pedestrian bridge. The council discussed the date for the first meeting of the fiscal year 2026 budget. Upcoming city events such as Veterans Day and the Christmas tree lighting were announced. A property owner requested an extension to the current zoning, but the request was postponed until the next meeting. A new police officer was introduced, and it was reported that overall Part I crime was down 24% for the year.

The council addressed a rezoning request for a property on Joy Lake Road, changing it from General Business to Manufacturing and approving a variance for gravel parking. Public Works reported on the city hall addition, installation of trash bins and pet waste stations in Oswalt Nature Preserve, completion of Christmas decorations, and replacement of community center parking lot lights with LEDs. The council approved closing city hall on December 26th. An ordinance amendment was approved to allow council to grant zoning extensions. The police reported a quarterly increase in crime but an overall decrease year-to-date and discussed joining the 30 by 30 initiative to increase female officers. The council moved to and returned from an executive session to discuss legal matters.

The council discussed project updates, including the completion of a new storm siren and playground equipment repairs. An update was given on the city hall construction and sidewalk bridge project. The council also discussed a technology grant for the city hall park and plans for Lake City's upcoming 75th anniversary. A motion was made to deny the rezoning request for properties on Jonesboro Road and Lake City Industrial Court. The council recognized Sgt. Shadaya Harper on the birth of her twins and gave Sgt. Roper the oath of office for his promotion to Sergeant. Residents raised concerns about downed tree limbs and speeding vehicles.