Edward Castro Bennett

The City Council convened to discuss and decide on a request for ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds from the Emery County Commission due to an accounting error. The council approved the use of these funds, approximately $30,000, to rehabilitate the city's baseball and city parks.

The council discussed and considered various topics, including a policy for cash in lieu of benefits for employees with alternative health insurance, a community benefit agreement with A-1 Lithium involving employment, city assistance with zoning, and annual contributions to the city budget. They also discussed funding for softball as a city-sponsored youth sports league and the lease of city ground for Airbuild's proof of concept. Additionally, they reviewed a scope of work agreement with Lochner for a pavement maintenance project at the airport. Public hearings for the tentative and adopted 2025-2026 budgets were announced. The council also discussed employee comments and concerns, including upcoming electric vehicle charging stations, and approved the consent agenda, which included financial reports, payment approvals, treasurer reports, and meeting minutes.

The City of Green River held a public hearing to gather citizen input on the project awarded under the 2025 Community Development Block Grant Program. The city has amended its capital investment plan to apply for funds for the Main Street Infrastructure Upgrade-Plan and was awarded a grant amount of $53,151. Copies of the plan are available.

The council meeting included a presentation on a feasibility study for a multipurpose facility. The council discussed and approved a Request for Proposal (RFP) for an accounting services consultant and an RFP for an auditor. They also approved a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Residential Anti-Displacement Plan. Additionally, the council approved the purchase of an extraction tool for the Fire Department and an airport fuel tank dispenser. Budget workshop dates were discussed, and there were comments and concerns from council members and employees. The consent agenda was approved, and a closed session was held to discuss pending or imminent litigation.

The meeting primarily focused on budget discussions, including a review of the current year's budget and preparation for the upcoming public hearing. Key points included the general fund revenue, total expenditures, and specific line items that were over budget. The council also discussed the county's contribution from TRT funds and the JWP Museum finances. Health insurance renewal options were presented, and the council decided to survey employees about their healthcare needs. Additionally, a new proposal for the Air Build lease was discussed, and the council agreed to consider a short-term lease. A request for a raise increase was made, and the council agreed to review job descriptions and responsibilities for all city employees. The use of RAP Tax for specific projects versus general park maintenance was also discussed.