Julie Derue

The council authorized a bond resolution for improvements to the water treatment plant, approved the creation of an Office Specialist II position, and authorized a special singing bowl event. Additionally, the council awarded a contract for electrical upgrades at Fire Station #1 and approved a contract with Lexipol LLC for the development of a fire department policies and procedures manual.

The Planning Commission reviewed and acted on several applications, including requests for historic alterations for window and clock face replacements, signage updates for local businesses, a special use permit for an outdoor concert event, a site plan review for a seasonal tent, and a request for outdoor dining at a restaurant. Additionally, a request for directional signage was approved with modifications, and a sign replacement application was granted with a condition regarding future exterior repairs.

The meeting includes the review of two zoning applications. Application #26-095 for 101 Leicester Street requests area variances to construct a 40 x 60 pole barn with reduced setbacks for the front, side, and rear yards. Application #26-108 for 79 Gibson Street requests an area variance to establish a second dwelling unit above a detached garage, which currently conflicts with existing accessory structure regulations.

The committees met to discuss several key items including an initiative for tick-borne disease awareness and the introduction of an Ad Hoc committee focused on education and prevention. Special event applications were reviewed for a youth fishing experience at the City Pier and a 5K charity run. Additionally, a presentation was delivered by Colliers Engineering and Design regarding the evaluation, current condition, and engineering recommendations for the City's lake outlet gate structures.

The council conducted public hearings regarding parking restrictions on Howell Street and the repeal and adoption of new stormwater management and erosion control regulations. Key resolutions included authorizing a license agreement for the use of city park land for rental operations, retaining a law firm as corporation counsel, and approving the appointment of the city treasurer. Additionally, the council authorized budget amendments for equipment purchases and virtual server upgrades, updated the budget amendment policy, set a public hearing for tax exemptions, and established ad-hoc committees for housing and design standards and advocacy and outreach.