The primary focus of the meeting was the proposed restructuring of the East Bethel Economic Development Authority (EDA). The city administrator introduced a delay in the public hearing regarding changes to the EDA’s governance due to inadequate public notice. The council debated whether to shift the EDA’s structure to comprise only council members, akin to the city’s Housing and Redevelopment Authority. A letter from Brian Bazansen, a current EDA member, was read, expressing surprise and frustration over the potential elimination of citizen representation. Bazansen criticized the lack of transparency in the process, stating, “To not have the courtesy of addressing this to the EDA beforehand is unwarranted.”

Public and council opinions were divided. A resident, Rita, opposed excluding citizens from the EDA, arguing their involvement is essential for diverse perspectives. She asserted, “If you have citizens who want to be on your authorities and your councils, I don’t think you should preclude them from doing that.” Meanwhile, some council members supported the change, citing inefficiencies and ineffectiveness in the current structure. One council member described their experience on the EDA as “very ineffective,” questioning the purpose of maintaining citizen involvement when it seemed to complicate decision-making.

Debate continued on the frequency of EDA meetings and its limited budget, which some argued affected its operational capacity. The discussion concluded with a decision to continue the public hearing until the first meeting in May, allowing for further public input and consideration.

In another significant issue raised during the meeting, resident Sarah Mclofflin voiced concerns about a neighboring property linked to drug activity. Mclofflin, attending her first meeting, described the property as a “problem house,” with its owner incarcerated and the house occupied by individuals reportedly disrupting the neighborhood. She expressed frustration over the lack of action since a previous council meeting in September 2024 and highlighted the safety concerns for her family, stating, “I have three young girls, well, teenage girls that live right next door to these people.”

A council member acknowledged the issue, confirming law enforcement’s involvement and increased presence in the area. However, limitations in addressing the situation were noted, including the legality of the occupants’ presence if permitted by the property owner.

The meeting also covered the case of Petra Fagger, who was billed $1,367 for inquiries related to an Interim Use Permit for grazing sheep. A council member criticized the charge as unreasonable, noting that Fagger was unaware her questions could incur such costs. A motion was proposed and passed to limit her cost to the initial $300 fee, with the council agreeing to review the city’s fee schedules to prevent similar issues in the future.

Discussions about the East Bethel Fire Department highlighted recruitment challenges and efforts to improve community engagement. The interim fire chief reported difficulties in securing volunteer firefighters, exacerbated by negative social media posts. A significant increase in the department’s social media presence was noted as part of a branding initiative, resulting in interest from potential recruits. An upcoming information session was announced to inform the community about joining the department.

The fire chief also provided updates on the search for a new fire chief, expressing optimism about the quality of applicants. The need for improved fire safety awareness and the department’s operational enhancements were emphasized, with ongoing efforts to address community misinformation and enhance branding.

The meeting concluded with updates on various city projects, including a site plan for a second building on Ulissi Street Northeast. The council also discussed the potential changes to barnaminium construction regulations, with plans to send the matter to the planning commission for further exploration. An update on the successful implementation of a new city security system and recognition of East Bethel as a “best managed city” for 2024 were also shared.