Greg W. Binks

The meeting addressed several items. Key discussions included the YCSO report noting a drop in traffic citations, and updates from DIG regarding the upcoming Daffodil Festival. Under new business, the Council approved the DWSP Intergovernmental Agreement, which involves staff time for reviewing consultant work and public outreach without monetary cost to the city. Reappointments were made to the Historic Landmarks Committee and the Tourism Committee. A re-appointment to the Amity Planning Commission was approved, with one councilor recusing herself from the vote. Department reports covered the Water Treatment Plant switchover, the status of electric vehicle procurement, and progress on the Oak Street Widening project, confirming the engineering design is nearly complete with a bid set for spring. The Council agreed to review the final design before bidding. The Mayor announced her appointment to the LOC water and wastewater policy committee and confirmed the upcoming Goal Setting session date.

The Special Meeting of the City Council addressed several key items of new business. The council elected Councilor Bojorquez as the Council President for 2026. The council also appointed City Administrator Nathan Frarck as the budget officer for fiscal year 2026-27 and approved the corresponding budget calendar. Furthermore, the council authorized the closure of the safe deposit box held at First Federal Bank and directed city staff to prepare for the removal of existing structures at the property located at 407 S. Trade Street, with the Fire Department potentially using the site as a training house beforehand. Finally, the council unanimously agreed to support a Habitat for Humanity project by having the Mayor issue a letter of support.

Key discussions focused on city surveys, with a suggestion to send additional notifications regarding goal setting invitations. The City Administrator provided an update on a recent water issue involving the old intake system and boil water notice, clarifying the operational differences between the new and old intakes concerning river levels and the status of pretreatment filters. There was discussion about submitting a capital construction project request concerning the water line update under the railroad tracks on 4th street for consideration by state representatives. Furthermore, the Council reviewed a draft Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) presentation, covering water, wastewater, streets, community facilities, and vehicle/equipment needs, with specific input regarding the safe routes to school grant, community facility upgrades (including roofing, parks, ADA compliance, and backup generators), and prioritizing equipment purchases. The Council also discussed methods to ensure all citizens receive emergency notifications, particularly those without cellular service or internet access.

The Regular Session agenda for the City Council meeting included several key items. The Consent Agenda covered Budget Vs. Actual review and approval of the February 4, 2026, Regular Council Meeting Minutes. Old Business focused on Railroad Crossing Improvements. New Business involved discussions on the 2026-2030 Capital Improvement Program and the Wastewater Facility Planning Study. Department reports included updates from the City Administrator on water treatment plant progress and waterline tie-ins, the City Recorder, Public Works, and the Library. Further discussions covered comments for the good of the order from various councilors and the Mayor.

The meeting addressed several agenda items. The consent agenda, including budget versus actuals and minutes from previous regular and special council meetings in January, was approved. Discussions covered the Small City Allotment Grants, with a proposal to apply for funds to resurface South Jellison Avenue and construct road base/pavement for adjacent small side streets. The council also approved the application for the Safe Routes to School Construction Grant, prioritizing sidewalk infill connecting the elementary school with the middle and high schools to promote safe pedestrian mobility. Furthermore, the council authorized the City Administrator and Mayor to negotiate the union contract, and discussed the opportunistic timing for potential railroad crossing improvements.