Jeremy Steven Pickens

The public hearing focused on gathering community feedback regarding an early draft of the zoning code. Key discussion topics included regulations for inoperable motor vehicle storage on residential property, the use of recreational vehicles for dwellings, and potential revisions to ordinances concerning short-term rentals and boarding houses. Attendees provided suggestions on home occupation space allowances, the limitation of variance types, zoning map corrections, the potential creation of a new waterfront zoning district, and the need for affordable housing. Furthermore, requests were made to update specific terminology, adjust industrial property paving requirements, clarify dimensional standards, and incorporate timelines for the site plan review process. It was agreed that additional public workshops will be held to address these concerns before drafting a revised zoning code and map.

The council approved a resolution for the 2026 Jeep the Mac event, including event access, use of city facilities, and police escort services. A new policy regarding emergency contracting and third-party services was adopted. Additionally, the hiring of a new Recreation Director/Facility Manager was approved, and a service contract for the Little Bear East Arena chiller system repair was authorized. The council reviewed and approved various invoices and discussed department updates provided by the City Manager, including infrastructure, grant-related projects, and community partnerships.

The council received an update on Department of Public Works activities, specifically regarding equipment challenges and upcoming spring maintenance tasks. Approval was granted for the emergency purchase of a plow-dump truck and a new pickup truck for the Water Department. Additionally, the council reviewed proposed language for Senate Bill 304 and authorized sending a letter expressing their concerns to state representatives. The meeting also included a review of the City Manager's report and the authorization of payment for outstanding city bills.

The council discussed several items including the potential separation of the MERS 457 Plan employer expense cap, the appointment of a coordinator for the Pickleball Courts Project, and the approval of a city contribution toward that project. Additionally, safety improvements for the police station were approved, as was the purchase of a new pallet jack for the Water Department. The council also addressed the creation of a formal policy for accepting community grants and contributions, and finalized the approval of outstanding bills.

The Planning Commission conducted a workshop focused on zoning code revisions and zoning map amendments. Key discussions included simplifying zoning abbreviations, aligning definitions with the master plan, and reclassifying specific parcels. The commission also addressed airport height restrictions, requested the inclusion of FAA approval in site plan reviews, and debated commercial development versus residential protection in specific areas.