Lakesha Y. Shannon

The agenda includes a public hearing, employee recognition, appointments to the Housing Authority, second readings of ordinances related to millage rates and budget adoption, and local hospitality revenue appropriation. Reports from the city administrator (covering energy surveys, nuisance properties, and miscellaneous updates) and city attorney are also scheduled, along with council and mayor updates. Executive sessions will address personnel matters concerning the city clerk and police department, with potential actions following.

This workshop focused on the discussion of a 1 Cent Capital Sales Tax and potential projects. Key projects discussed included elementary school gym renovations, Watsonia Recreation Complex improvements, Grice Recreation/Boys and Girls Club Facility upgrades, and Tollison Center renovations. The discussion also covered the costs associated with hazardous materials surveys and fire suppression/alarm systems for these projects. The allocation of funds from the sales tax, potential strategies for project prioritization, and the process for submitting project proposals were also addressed. A follow-up workshop was scheduled to review probable costs and finalize project details before a January meeting.

The meeting addressed a sponsorship request for the Miss Marion County USA/Miss Teen Marion County pageants, with a decision deferred to the January meeting. A Christmas holiday work schedule was approved. Updates were provided on playground equipment installation and plans for its reuse or donation. The Grand Strand Water and Sewer project was discussed, along with updates on the Citizen's Advisory Committee and vacancies. A legal update was given on the Sweitzer matter and landfill issues. A presentation on foreclosures and legal services was scheduled for the January meeting. Various comments and reports from council members and the mayor covered topics such as the Christmas tree lighting, employee awards, community events, and the upcoming arrival of Magnolia Gardens.

The meeting addressed the aftermath of a recent ice storm, including an emergency management update and a discussion on debris removal. The council approved a contract for debris removal, and the mayor presented beautification awards. Other agenda items included appointments to a beautification committee, permission for a genealogical society to use a meeting room, a budget transfer, and a resolution granting a production company the authority to use city images in films. The council also discussed CTC funding, stormwater maintenance, the sale of surplus equipment, and drainage problems. Departmental reports were reviewed, and an executive session was held to discuss personnel, contractual, and audit matters. The Boys & Girls Club agreement was tabled.

The council meeting involved presentations and discussions on various topics. A resolution of appreciation was presented to Bethea Transport. The Coastal Conservation League addressed the council regarding I-73, proposing an alternate route. Resolutions of appreciation were also approved for the B. N. Duke Scholars Summer of Service program and William Humphrey. A workshop was scheduled for redistricting. Bids were accepted for four separate projects: driveway replacement, sidewalk replacement, N. Withlacoochee drainage, and Bobby L. Davis Blvd. drainage. The administrator reported on storm damage and the summer schedule for street and sanitation departments was changed. A sensitivity training workshop was planned. Departmental reports were reviewed, and comments from council members and the mayor included updates on community events, storm cleanup efforts, and the allocation of funds for district activities. An executive session was held to discuss county contractual matters, and a committee was appointed to work with the county on these issues. Payment was approved for E-911 funds.