Michael Kelley

The council addressed various community and administrative matters. Topics included a review of the community center and library reports, as well as updates on ongoing property maintenance. Unfinished business involved approving bids for flooring installations and shower replacements at King's Court, and initiating a bidding process for water line valve replacement. Several resolutions were adopted, covering the appointment of city officials, including the Mayor Pro Tem, public works superintendent, and city attorney, as well as establishing official depositories, official newspapers, and mileage reimbursement rates. New initiatives included a call for bids for library exterior outlets and window replacements at King's Court, and discussions regarding the establishment of a planning commission and board of adjustments.

The council discussed various community matters, including offers from residents for park maintenance and public comment regarding a nuisance complaint. Reports were received from the community center, library, and public works department. Key actions included the approval of a resolution setting the city attorney's rate, the decision to lease land outside well setbacks at the water plant for agricultural use, and setting a future public hearing for the property tax rate. The council also addressed property maintenance issues, established a policy regarding stump removals on city property, approved payment for a balloon artist for an upcoming event, and decided to continue utilizing a restricted residence district for zoning. Additionally, updates were provided on grant funding, city property sales, and upcoming staff training.

The council discussed the potential hiring of a temporary substitute for the City Clerk, stipulating that any candidate must undergo a background check. The meeting also included a budget work session where members reviewed profit and loss reports, fund balances, and a list of necessary city repairs. Discussions covered departmental budgets, street maintenance, employee wages, property upkeep for city buildings, contracts, and potential revenue-generating opportunities.

The meeting included discussions and actions on several key areas. The council approved claims from Williams & Company for audit services and from Utility Service Co. for water tower maintenance. Bids for the Tree Removal Project were opened, and the contract was awarded to Tree Wise Men. The council considered allowing Mike Kelley to take home the city UTV for work purposes, reviewed and approved the FY24/25 Annual Financial Report for filing, and approved a donation to the West Harrison National Honor Society from Avenue of Flags donations. Additionally, they approved a propane prepay purchase, discussed ICAP grant opportunities, and addressed the appointment of the Landfill Commissioner for 2026. The Public Works report highlighted a severe wipe problem at the lift station, with a plan to inform residents about the issue.

The council discussed community and facility reports, a library report, and a fire department report. Property maintenance and city attorney matters were addressed, including properties not in compliance with city code, such as those on Pine St., S Main St., N Main St., Cedar St., and Maple St. The council approved Resolution #2025-12, appointing James Rife to the vacant city council seat. They also decided to turn off comments and disable Facebook Messenger on the city's Facebook account. Additional discussion included the digital sign at the library, the brush pile at the sewer lagoon, and laminate flooring for units at Kings Court Housing. The public works report covered the replacement of a pressure transducer for the water tower and snow cleanup.