Donald Ferguson

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of reflection for those affected by gun violence, and for specific individuals facing personal hardship. The council conducted a roll call, noting one member's absence. The primary agenda item involved a financial presentation by the accountant regarding the end-of-year statistics for Edgewood LLC (Edgewood facility) for 2025, comparing them to 2024 figures. Key financial discussions included the overall cash position decline, the addition of new assets such as a cart path and security cameras, and details on long-term liabilities related to golf carts. The accountant reviewed profit and loss statements, noting revenue generation from golf, pool, and pub operations, and discussed the impact of increased cost of goods sold (food and alcohol) leading to an overall net loss for 2025, though operating income remained positive before depreciation and interest. The council discussed these financial figures, particularly the debt associated with two sets of golf cart loans and the financing of the cart path. The meeting concluded with the nomination and opening of the vote for the annual council president election.

The primary focus of this special meeting was the presentation and discussion of survey results regarding the community pool. Key discussion points included demographic data of survey respondents, such as age and household size, and the preferred course of action if the current pool cannot be repaired, with replacement or filling in being the main options. The discussion also covered community willingness to support a replacement project through volunteering for fundraising, one-time monetary gifts, or monthly contributions added to water and sewage bills, with the latter receiving high support. Cost estimates for a new pool were mentioned, referencing previous meeting data, and a preliminary timeline extending to 2027 was projected due to contractor responsiveness and grant cycles. The need for continued transparency and future meetings to present finalized designs and funding strategies was emphasized.

The meeting included discussions and reports from various departments. The fire department reported on EMS and fire calls, and announced an upcoming Santa Claus parade. The police department shared statistics on calls for service, arrests, and traffic stops, and detailed their involvement in apprehending an armed robbery suspect. The street department addressed road conditions due to slickness and efforts to improve safety with salting, as well as a call about frozen water pipes. There was also a report on the status of water filters and lead service line letters being sent to residents. The council also discussed a resolution concerning the operation of the golf course, pool, pub, and event center, as well as drafting an ordinance about background checks of employees and volunteers. Pavement evaluation training was discussed, as well as a drainage inlet repair on Leighton Road. The council also discussed a community crossings grant application for paving various roads in Edgewood.

The meeting included discussions on monthly financial reports, specifically focusing on the balance sheet and profit and loss by class, including the golf course, pool, and restaurant/pub. There was also a discussion regarding vacation policies for the police department versus other town employees, and the potential for consolidating these policies. Additionally, the council discussed fire department matters, including medical and fire calls, mutual aid runs, and a recommendation from the state fire marshal regarding charges for services, particularly concerning the recovery of expendable materials and hazmat incidents.

The meeting included discussions on various topics such as expressing gratitude to residents and volunteers, fire and police reports, and solar light options. Roadwork possibilities at Ivy and Oakwood were examined to address a drainage issue. There was a review of the water tower inspection report, including the need for cleaning and potential repainting, and the possibility of posting the inspection report on the website. A major point of discussion was the lead service line project, including the lack of grant money from the state due to the town's size, the process for identifying lead lines, and the costs associated with mandatory verifications.