Mark C. Carey

Key discussions included the Police Department reporting no issues during the latest snowstorm and an update on Officer McIntire's training phase. The Fire Department reported 72 calls for January, an increase from the previous year. The Safety committee recommended the purchase of a combination fire truck (ladder/engine) for $1,464,402.00, with financing arranged through Community Leasing Partners, noting that the current ladder truck is out-of-service and the engine truck is also nearing retirement. The Services committee authorized bidding out the trash service and approved a one-time bonus structure for service employees who assisted with water main breaks and snow plowing. The Administrator reported on ordering pool starting blocks, advertising for a utility worker position open since late 2024, and noted that Safe Harbor withdrew a rezoning request. Significant attention was given to severe watermain breaks occurring in late January, including one rupture that drained a water tower, and the staff intervention to repair frozen backflow preventors at a mobile home park to prevent a public health crisis. Finance approved outstanding bills, and an ordinance regarding supplemental appropriations was passed.

Key discussions included the swearing-in of a new full-time police officer, Officer Cory McIntire. The Fire Chief presented the 2025 annual report, including organizational charts and incident data. The Administrator reported on two applications for a senior housing project seeking Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, one of which requires rezoning of specific properties, scheduled for review by the planning commission. Other service updates involved ordering pool starting blocks, planning the erection of 2025 State Championship signs, addressing a collapsed retaining wall on Arnold Lane, and scheduling the replacement of 49 flickering or out streetlights with LED bulbs at no cost. A major water main break on Lee Street was noted, and approval was granted for the repair of a manhole on Iberia for $16,833.00. The resignation of a garbage department employee led to a discussion regarding retiring the garbage truck and potentially contracting out trash and recycling services. The Mayor requested and received approval for a resolution recognizing the United States Postal Service on its 250th anniversary. Financial actions included approving bills, accepting county budget commission rates, passing a resolution to purchase a pickup truck, and passing Ordinance 2008 for supplemental appropriation. The Mayor announced a dedication ceremony for a history marker on May 1st, and clarification was provided that the Friends of the Village, not the village, is responsible for clearing the turf on the "green space".

The organizational meeting included the swearing-in of four council members, followed by a regular council meeting. Key actions included the nomination and appointment of Mark Phillips as Council President Pro Tempore for 2026. The 2026 council rules of procedure were approved, as were the regular meeting times for the upcoming year. The Police Department reported on a recruit's progress through field training. The council approved the bills and appointed two members to the Volunteer Firefighters Dependent Board. The Mayor announced a subsequent special meeting to explain council meeting procedures.

Key discussions during the meeting included a request from the pool manager to consider reducing free pool days next year due to high attendance, and updates on necessary repairs at the water treatment plant, including flushing lines due to an iron issue. The Police Department reported on the repair status of a Durango and the expected service date of a new cruiser. The Fire Department received approval to hire four part-time firefighters, approved the Franklin Township fire contract, and received authorization to travel to Wisconsin to investigate purchasing a used fire truck, including a deposit of up to $20,000.00. Finance Committee discussions covered economic and long-range planning, including the Sav-A-Lot building, and follow-up with the baseball/softball commission regarding field upkeep responsibilities. The Service Committee addressed water treatment plant improvements, sewer and water line upgrades planned for 2026, readiness for bid submission for resurfacing and recreation projects, and the potential purchase of a used street sweeper for $150,000.00. Various ordinances and resolutions were passed, including those regarding animals, supplemental appropriations, advertising for bids for resurfacing and recreation projects, and purchasing a street sweeper and a fire truck.

The meeting began with an invocation and the pledge of allegiance. Key discussions included the approval of prior meeting minutes. In department reports, the Police Chief noted a decrease in activity and mentioned receiving charitable donations following the passing of Judge Lee Mullen. The Fire Chief sought approval for a one-year contract with Franklin Township and Johnsville Fire Department to address a funding gap, which involved accepting a reduced amount for one year while assisting with a future levy. The Administrator's report covered updates on bridge deficiencies requiring accelerated replacement scheduling (moved up from FY 2029), contract signings for sports courts resurfacing, personnel changes including a resignation and an injury leave, and updates on municipal services like leaf collection and waste disposal. Financial actions involved approving bills and motions to pass ordinances related to wage adjustments (including a detective uniform allowance) and the annual EPA license to operate for the water treatment plant. The Mayor's report highlighted attendance at a committee meeting, the success of the annual spirit of giving food drive benefiting the food pantry, and coordination regarding leaf collection deadlines and the upcoming Christmas parade.