Marvin Ward, a resident of Cottage Square Apartments, initiated the public comments by raising traffic safety concerns. Ward advocated for implementing a citywide speed limit to address the issue of speeding vehicles in residential areas. He highlighted that many residents have voiced complaints about fast-driving vehicles, stating, “They’re driving very fast in this city; lots of people have complained about it.” Ward’s proposal included establishing a “low-level speed limit for the whole city” and using appropriate signage to inform drivers of these regulations. He also emphasized the need for traffic calming measures such as road narrowing and speed tables, particularly in older neighborhoods that were not designed for modern vehicular traffic.

In response to Ward’s comments, Mayor Nicole LaChapelle acknowledged the request to explore a citywide speed limit. She noted that discussions had taken place with Councilor Owen M. Zaret regarding additional information on the matter. The Mayor referenced the Complete Streets program, indicating that traffic calming measures would be part of ongoing improvements in various areas of the city, including Union Street and Main Street. She mentioned that while the city had not formally requested a citywide speed limit, traffic safety interventions would be incorporated into future plans.

Another resident, Joseph Baric Senor of L Street, voiced his concerns about the financial burden placed on families involved in the Easthampton Athletic Association’s youth football program. He described the costs associated with uniforms and fundraising efforts, stating that parents are required to sell cash cards to support the program. Baric Senor criticized the $5 entry fee charged for attending games, arguing that it is unfair for families to pay to watch their children compete. He stated, “I’m concerned about our school and the aspect of having insult to injury as far as I’m concerned of having to pay to see our children or grandchildren play.” He requested that the council consider adjusting the fee structure to be more equitable for families and community members who support the teams.

The Finance Committee, led by Councilor Thomas W. Peake, received a presentation from the mayor’s office and the finance team regarding a recent audit that resulted in a finding. The committee expressed satisfaction with the measures being implemented to address this issue, noting that the audit finding was an internal management concern from two years prior that has mostly been resolved. Councilor Peake mentioned that the finance team has put additional safeguards in place to prevent future occurrences. He encouraged residents to watch the detailed meeting for more information, as it was extensive. The committee also discussed the necessary review of salaries for elected officials and appointed committee members, some of which have not been adjusted since the 1980s. Councilor Peake suggested adjustments for inflation and proposed cost of living increases to avoid budget shocks in the future.

The Public Safety Committee, chaired by a council member, discussed concerns raised by approximately 20 residents from West Street regarding roadway infrastructure and pedestrian safety, particularly issues of speeding. This discussion lasted around an hour, during which residents provided valuable input. The committee decided to invite the DPW director and the acting chief of police for further review in the next meeting. Additionally, the committee began reviewing the language of existing traffic rules, which were noted to be outdated, having been written in the 1950s. There was a consensus that many terms were obsolete and needed revision to reflect current practices.

The Appointments subcommittee, led by Councilor Brad Riley, reported on several candidates for board positions. Councilor Tamara Smith highlighted three candidates interviewed in previous meetings, including Patricia and Emilia, both nominated to serve on the Main Street Cemetery Committee, with terms expiring in December 2026. Both candidates expressed a strong personal connection to the cemetery and demonstrated detailed knowledge of necessary repairs and issues. The subcommittee unanimously voted to move their nominations forward. Another candidate, Peter Fallet, was discussed for the East Hampton City Arts Committee with a term expiring in December 2025. Fallet has a background in theater arts and has volunteered with local arts initiatives, and the subcommittee supported his nomination as well.

During the meeting, a motion was made to approve a series of appointments to various committees and commissions, including Bonnie McLoud to the Commission on Disability, Peter Fallet to the East Hampton City Arts Committee, and several others for roles in the Main Street Cemetery and Veterans Council. The motion received a second and was approved unanimously by the council members present.

New business included a request referred to the mayor for consideration of a citywide speed limit. A council member raised procedural concerns regarding how this request was presented to the council, asserting that it deviated from standard protocols, which typically require a petition and discussion with a sponsoring councilor. The member suggested reintroducing the request in a manner consistent with city rules, proposing to move it to old business so that it could be presented correctly at the next meeting.