Doug Stowe

This document outlines the adoption process for the Downtown Strategic Plan for 2019-2021. Its primary purpose is to gather community input on the downtown action plan and vision. The plan aims to identify existing strengths and pinpoint areas for continuous improvement over the next three to five years, with community members invited to contribute ideas through public input sessions and an online survey.

The Council meeting covered several key business items. Key highlights included the official introduction and swearing-in of the new Town Fire Chief, and a presentation by the executive director of Tri-County Mental Health regarding Mental Health Awareness Month and the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. The council discussed the growing stray cat population and heard a proposed solution to form a non-profit organization for low-cost spay and neuter services. Additionally, the Council approved the first reading of an ordinance to increase water and sewer charges to fund a new water treatment facility, and initiated the process for adopting a new general operating budget for the upcoming fiscal year.

The council meeting addressed several legislative and administrative items. Key actions included the second reading and approval of an ordinance to create an entertainment district for special events, and the restructuring of the town's administrative departments by dissolving the parks and grounds and recreation departments to form a unified parks and recreation department. A resolution was passed to declare April as Fair Housing Month. Citizen comments were received regarding community recognition for historical contributors, cemetery maintenance, economic development growth, and traffic safety around school zones.

The meeting included a public hearing regarding a historic district zoning ordinance which was postponed until further notice. Discussions covered handicap access concerns on Dval Street, awareness initiatives for Sexual Assault Awareness Month and Child Abuse Prevention Month, and the formal recognition of Melton's Flores for 75 years of service. Additionally, the council addressed citizen concerns regarding water billing assistance, the impact of semi-truck traffic on residential streets, and the status of road repairs following utility work. Finally, the council reviewed a request for a water tap at 4 Stokes Road.

The council concluded an executive session and subsequently voted to approve a contract for a new permanent town manager with an annual salary of $110,000. Following the vote and expressions of appreciation for the appointee, the meeting was adjourned.