Jason Lewis

The council discussed the renewal of a contract for delinquent tax collection services and approved the termination of a real estate development agreement for the town center. Updates were provided regarding Planning Commission activities, police and fire department initiatives including officer retention and longevity pay increases, status of the connectivity plan, school assessment results, and current public works and city management issues such as gas line remediation and property ordinance violations. Additionally, the council received updates on sewer pump station repairs and upcoming budget planning processes.

The City Council adopted Ordinance 353 regarding the designation of one-way streets. Council member Kevin Leckenby was elected as Vice Mayor. The meeting included status updates from the Planning Commission, police and fire departments, and the Fairyland Elementary school regarding enrollment and potential schedule changes. The Council discussed stormwater inspection results, public works reports, sewer pump station repairs, and the upcoming 2026 election schedule. Additionally, the City Manager provided an update on the comprehensive plan, cemetery improvements, and preparations for the United States 250th anniversary celebration.

The key discussion topics involved the review and approval of plats for two property matters. The Commission unanimously approved the final plat for the Solar and Battery Backup project located at 201 Princess Trail. Subsequently, the Commission also unanimously approved the plat for the renovation project at 202 Rainbow Drive.

The key discussions during this Regular Meeting included the review and subsequent unanimous approval of the final plat for a Grocery Store concept plan, and the unanimous approval of a plat for a Solar and Battery Backup project located at 201 Princess Trail. Furthermore, the commission unanimously approved the concept related to the reappointments of four commission members: Mike Willingham, Frank Youmans, Glenn Sutherland, and Jan Weaver.

The City Council formally accepted the resignation of Mayor David Bennett and subsequently appointed Arch Willingham to fill the unexpired term. Mayor Willingham immediately resigned as a City Council member and Vice Mayor upon accepting the appointment, after which he was sworn in as the new Mayor. The Council moved to schedule a Special Election for the office of Mayor for January 1, 2026, to coincide with the general municipal election on November 4, 2025. Key actions included authorizing negotiations with Morgan Construction Company regarding the sole bid received for the Chickamauga Trail Pump Station project, and the approval and adoption of a Resolution setting compensation for City election officials (poll workers).