Jimmy Grant

The City Commission addressed various infrastructure and policy matters, including the second reading of an ordinance to prohibit smoking, vaping, and smokeless tobacco use in city parks. Key project discussions included change orders for the Citywide Stormwater Resiliency Phase 2 project, specifically for Wynn Street and Dogwood Street, as well as approvals for various grant-related agreements and task orders, such as an FAA grant application for the Taxiway A Rehabilitation project and utility-related maintenance. The Commission also discussed internal policy changes, including the potential implementation of a consent agenda, as well as capital improvements for the police department, airport hangar developments, and potential new community facilities.

The workshop meeting addressed the city's investment policy with Regions Bank, which included a review of asset allocation and performance metrics. Discussion also covered an Advanced Metering Infrastructure gas meter replacement project, evaluating installation bids, project scope, and a recommendation to proceed with the contract award. Additionally, the meeting reviewed a natural gas financial hedging program to manage price volatility, including the use of futures contracts and call options.

The meeting focused on the presentation of a CDBG application for infrastructure improvements on Borden St and the McLane Center, including requests for clarification on specific improvements and ADA compliance. The Commission approved Resolution 2026-15 to be submitted with the grant application. Additionally, the Commission reviewed and approved an updated Purchasing Policy.

The City Commission discussed a wide range of administrative and development-related items. Key topics included the adoption of an ordinance to prohibit smoking and vaping in city parks, approval of amendments to grant agreements for WWTF energy efficiency and other infrastructure projects, final reconciliation of construction change orders for airport hangar development and citywide water restoration, and the authorization of professional services for grant administration and engineering. Additionally, the Commission reviewed and approved the purchase of new equipment for the Public Safety Building and the implementation of updated internal purchasing policies.

The commission reviewed presentations for longevity and employee of the quarter recognition. Public hearings were held regarding a future land use change for ordinance #1178 and a zoning change for ordinance #1180. The commission addressed various policy matters, including design loan agreements for wastewater upgrades, change orders for the St. Luke historical renovation, and building modifications for the Rural Infrastructure Fund. Additionally, the agenda covered utility improvements, bid awards for electrical upgrades, various grant agreements, and the purchase of an F250 truck for the Street Department.