The decision to contract CEDA for economic development staffing services marked a step for Janesville. The proposed staffing arrangement will see CEDA personnel engaging in Economic Development Authority (EDA) meetings and forming partnerships with local businesses to enhance economic growth. The council’s approval of the three-day contract was unanimous. CEDA’s existing partnership with the local high school was recognized as an asset in the decision-making process, with council members expressing optimism about the potential benefits of the arrangement.

Attention then turned to the contentious topic of motorized vehicles on pedestrian pathways, particularly those used by schoolchildren. A previously established policy banned all motorized vehicles from these paths, with exceptions being considered only for motorized wheelchairs. The discussion revealed differing opinions among council members. One member argued against allowing any motorized vehicles on these pathways, citing safety concerns and instances of unauthorized use by four-wheelers and golf carts. They emphasized the pathways’ design as primarily pedestrian and school-focused.

Despite the opposition, there was acknowledgment that some motorized access, such as golf carts, might enhance safety by keeping them off city streets. However, the council ultimately upheld the ban on non-wheelchair motorized vehicles, aligning with the original intent to maintain pedestrian safety.

In other discussions, the council reviewed a collective bargaining agreement with the police department, which is due to expire at the end of October. The proposed two-year contract includes the addition of Juneteenth as a paid holiday, in line with state legislation, as well as adjustments to night shift hours and probationary period terminology. The agreement also outlines a cost-of-living increase of 3% for the first year and 4% for the second year. This contract was unanimously approved.

The council also tackled the topic of cemetery maintenance, evaluating two sealed bids for the upcoming year. The previous contract valued at $8,000 annually was contrasted with bids from M&K Enterprises at $122,000 and Cruz Lawn Mow at $10,000. Concerns were raised about Cruz Lawn Mow’s capability to meet the contract’s chemical application requirements, alongside dissatisfaction with past maintenance quality. A council member highlighted the importance of respectful maintenance, particularly regarding veterans’ graves, and suggested that a higher expenditure could ensure better service. Ultimately, the council voted to accept the lower bid from Cruz Lawn Mow, with provisions to amend the contract for improved service and clear expectations.

The meeting also covered upcoming utility rate increases aimed at ensuring sufficient funding for ongoing projects. The council discussed raising the base charge for water and sewer services from $12.50 to $13 and the usage fee from $3.50 to $4.25 per 1,000 gallons. Even with these adjustments, Janesville would maintain its position as the second lowest in utility fees among nearby communities. The rate hike, anticipated to be approved by January, is intended to support future infrastructure projects, including improvements at the main lift station and updates to the ArcGIS system for better field mapping capabilities.

Additionally, the council accepted donations totaling $50 for the police fund and $75 for the fire fund. These contributions were acknowledged with gratitude.