During the meeting, the council approved a ordinance to annex a 20-acre property adjacent to the city limits. The property owner’s attorney argued for the annexation due to the county’s land use and zoning regulations not meeting their needs and assured that police and fire services would cover the annexed area without affecting the maintenance of surrounding roads. The council also resolved to award a request for proposal to JB Pro to assist with updating the city’s comprehensive plan.

A significant part of the discussion focused on the city’s efforts to comply with the 1991 lead and copper rules initiated by the US EPA. A resolution was approved to authorize an agreement for Project Specific Professional Services with Right Period Inc. to conduct a lead service line inventory and replacement plan. The council received information about the looming deadline of October 16, 2024, for the inventory’s completion, and discussed the funding for the inventory and replacement plan, including possible assistance from the Florida Rural Water Association.

The council engaged in a conversation about the complexities of annexing roads and the jurisdictional issues involved. There was also discussion about the impact of annexation on utilities such as water, sewer, natural gas, and electricity, and the potential impact of changing the future land use from public to agriculture.

Another topic was the proposed zoning change from public to agricultural for the property known as the old Middle School. The Planning and Zoning Commission previously approved the proposal, and the applicant provided an overview of their operations and plans for the site. The council approved ordinance 724 for the zoning change, facilitating the establishment of the medical cannabis facility.

The meeting also addressed concerns regarding a proposal to establish a drug rehabilitation facility in the area. The proposed facility emphasized heavy regulation and planning, including security measures and the potential economic impact on the community. The council discussed the adequacy of security for a facility of that size, with remarks about the benefits and economic impact of the facility on the community.

The Council considered amending the building department fee schedule in response to a 3.7% increase by the building official’s firm. The amendments would include Levy County impact fees and adjustments to permit fees. This topic, although not as prominent as the medical cannabis facility, shows the council’s attention to detail when it comes to financial management and local governance.

Furthermore, the meeting touched upon the establishment of VHG Telemed Home Visit, a new medical facility set to launch in Williston, which would provide medical services through phone calls and home visits. This initiative highlights the city’s receptiveness to innovative healthcare solutions and the diversification of local services.

In the realm of police and public safety, the council deliberated on the police department’s budgetary constraints and the need for a new police vehicle. With funds being reallocated within the department and the consideration of using ARPA funds, the council displayed its dedication to ensuring that the city’s law enforcement has the necessary resources.

The council approved the sale of surplus property, specifically two old police vehicles, through a sealed bid auction. This decision was part of the city’s efforts to optimize resources and manage public assets responsibly.

A new member was appointed to the board of adjustments and code enforcement.

To conclude the meeting, the council discussed the impact fees related to new houses, EMS, and the school board, and the process of altering future impact fees.