Tony Hewitt proposed taking over the city’s off-sale liquor operations. He noted that the city’s off-sale operation had experienced a loss of $16,000 in the previous year. Hewitt offered to remodel a section of his grocery store to accommodate the liquor sales. He emphasized his experience with off-sale operations at his other stores, which have been profitable within their communities.

He proposed operating hours similar to his other stores, which typically close by 8 PM on weekdays and 6 PM on weekends. The council members expressed an interest in further exploring the proposal, mentioning the necessity of a public hearing to gather community input and consider the implications of the potential transition.

Council members acknowledged that no other local bars had previously approached the city for an off-sale liquor license. The discussion also touched on the financial status of the city’s operations, with some members noting that profits from THC sales were beginning to improve the overall financial outlook, although the effect was still uncertain.

In a different agenda item, the council approved funding requests that underscored the community’s focus on youth and education. Tara Johnson, representing Ada Bio Girls, requested $1,000 to support the program’s expansion to 40 participants. The council approved a $500 donation, leaving $1,400 in the fund for such contributions. Karen Brumenshinkle sought $500 for a scholarship fund in memory of Katie Brumenshinkle Vilmell, aimed at supporting local students pursuing agricultural education. The request was approved, recognizing the scholarship’s broader regional eligibility criteria.

Nick Wynne of the Heart of the Valley Golf Course requested $500 for their annual banquet, emphasizing the foundation’s role in providing free golf to children under 18. The council approved the allocation, acknowledging the increase in youth participation and the foundation’s community impact.

The meeting also addressed ongoing public works projects and construction plans. Rhett Fisnes, an architect, provided an update on the design and bidding process for a new building project, which includes a police station. Discussions focused on the existing infrastructure and the need to replace an aging concrete floor with in-floor heating. Participants debated the timeline, expressing dissatisfaction with delays that pushed the bid opening to March.

Council members discussed the importance of having bids reviewed before the council meeting, with some expressing frustration over potential missed opportunities due to delays. There was a consensus on the necessity of aligning expectations with the timeline to avoid future frustrations. The need for a special meeting to review bids was proposed.