In the session, the council also recognized individuals for their heroism during the DFS Triathlon event. Taylor Lainghouse, Dan Coen, Fire Chief Sheffield, and two firefighters received life-saving certificates for their courageous actions in rescuing distressed swimmers. This act of valor resonated with the community and the council.

The council’s agenda moved forward with the appointment of Andre Lewis Kent as the new airport operations manager and the approval of Lenny Hatcher to fill a vacancy in the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA). Furthermore, the annual Bulletproof Vest Program received funding approval.

A major talking point was the city’s infrastructure, particularly the sewer system. Plans to replace sewer lines and address issues with cleanouts and manhole rehabs were discussed. The updated Capital Improvement Projects list, which now includes sewer and water corrections, was adopted by the council. Moreover, the council expressed their intention to prioritize projects such as the police department build-out, the fire department building rehabilitation, and library renovations in the upcoming budget. The inclusion of a proposal for a new Wendy’s restaurant and a rezoning request for a small office building and apartment complex were also on the agenda.

Environmental concerns were evident as the council tackled pollution prevention in the local lake, stormwater management, and water testing beyond just bacterial levels. The first budget workshop of the year was scheduled for June, focusing on council and community priorities, with an emphasis on efficiency and transparency.

The council engaged in a discussion about the removal of water oaks from public rights-of-way, due to their proneness to rot and the hazards they pose during storms. A proposal was split into two motions: one for the removal of the trees and another for seeking grants to assist with their removal from private properties. Additionally, the council tasked the city beautification and tree board with developing a policy and information brochure on the subject.

Other administrative matters included the appointment of an interim Finance Director, discussions on yard debris pickup, and the implementation of a card system to track debris pickup delays. The council stressed the importance of separating construction debris from yard waste and considered consequences for non-compliance. Estimates for jetting drainage in alleyways varied widely, and the council mentioned a USDA grant for urban forest management.

The upcoming Lake Fest event, the introduction of grass carp to address lake issues, and updates on playground equipment and swimming areas in the lake were also discussed. The Economic Development Alliance (EDA) meeting recap touched on new board members, approved lease agreements, grant applications, and future land use discussions.