Suzann Holland

The Common Council meeting addressed several significant items. The Public Safety Committee discussed routes for the 'Holly's Heart & Sole Family Fun Run' and expressed interest in evaluating a potential fee increase to cover associated public safety costs. The Judiciary and Ordinance Review Committee held a public hearing and subsequently approved an ordinance related to repealing and recreating definitions within the zoning code, including the deletion of the DR-8 Zoning District and modification of TR-10 One and Two-Family Zoning Districts. Furthermore, the Salary and Personnel Committee passed a resolution authorizing the conversion of the Account Clerk Position from part-time to full-time status. The Finance and Taxation Committee approved a resolution regarding a ground lease with ADI Operating Company, LLC. A Council of the Whole update was provided regarding the 2026A Bond Issuance, noting the sale completion with a winning bid by UMB Bank at a 3.8% interest rate and confirmation of the city's AA3 rating by Moody's.

The Common Council meeting covered several legislative actions and administrative matters. Public hearings were held and subsequently closed for two ordinances: one repealing and recreating Chapter 10-7 regarding Neighborhood Electric Vehicles, Low Speed Vehicles, and Golf Carts, requiring compliance with state and federal regulations; and another repealing and recreating Section 2-14-1 concerning the Visitor and Promotion Commission Member and Appointments. The Council also approved a resolution combining wards and polling locations for the 2026 Elections. During discussion by Alders, a request was made for Alders to report on their committee activities at the next meeting, though a motion to formally add this item failed. The meeting adjourned at 7:00 PM.

Key discussions included the Park Supervisor's report, which addressed routine maintenance, preparations for Fall activities, and an update on the 4th of July Fireworks show, where the vendor offered a $1,000 credit due to a misfire. The successful grand opening of the Pickleball Complex was noted, and progress on the downtown pocket park was reported. The Recreation Director's report covered the conclusion of the Baseball/Softball season, strong flag football numbers, and feedback on the new climbing wall at the pool. Additionally, the board addressed a complaint regarding park users cutting through a resident's yard near the Northeast Park ball diamond and recommended the property owner post signage.

The meeting addressed several key business items. Building updates included the completion of the boiler project and the installation of an exterior light. The Board approved the installation of new roller shades for the gym and the installation of a sink, countertop, and cabinets in the Craft Room for better utilization. The Coordinator's Report noted an increase in program attendance and Wellness Center participation compared to the previous year. Community engagement efforts, including Brat Bash, were reviewed, with Brat Bash achieving a record profit of $16,685.56. The Board also discussed the potential benefit of hosting a Business After 5 event.

The Finance and Taxation Committee meeting addressed several key agenda items requiring recommendation to the Common Council. Discussions included the approval and recommendation for the purchase of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) for the Fire Department, utilizing an Innotex Energy PPE ensemble selected through Jefferson Fire and Safety. The committee also considered and recommended approval for the 2025 Budget Amendment. Furthermore, the committee discussed and recommended proceeding with the purchase of four 2026 Ford Police Interceptor squad vehicles, totaling $177,844, to maintain the two-year replacement cycle for the Police Department.