The main highlight of the meeting was the approval of a state park grant aimed at funding phase four renovations to Campo and Common Park. Susan Frink from the Community Development Department outlined the project, which includes refurbishing the stage, installing a water feature, adding seating, and planting trees. These renovations are necessary to address the park’s “heat island” conditions. The grant, the maximum award available, requires the city to provide upfront capital with a promise of 70% reimbursement.

Frink detailed that the design work is expected to be completed within the current fiscal year, with construction commencing on July 1, aligning with new state mandates. The councilors raised concerns about ensuring ADA compliance for the stage and discussed possible improvements to the playground, particularly for children with special needs. The council’s vote to approve the funding was nearly unanimous, with one member absent.

Beyond the park renovations, the council also focused on legal staffing. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the performance and contract renewal of Assistant City Attorney Kevin Foley. The council praised Foley’s work, noting his contribution to successfully defending the city in several legal cases, including a wrongful death lawsuit and personal lawsuits against the mayor and city attorney. Foley’s efforts have reportedly saved the city considerable legal expenses by reducing reliance on external legal counsel.

The council approved a proposal to extend Foley’s contract for another year, increasing his salary from $130,000 to $135,000 and adding two vacation days. Despite concerns about potential conflicts of interest, it was clarified that Foley would not engage in private practice, having discontinued his previous 17-year private legal career. The councilors emphasized the importance of transparency, with one member requesting the documentation of Foley’s accomplishments in the meeting records.

In addition to Foley’s contract, the meeting briefly touched on the appointment of Dem Mocari as planning director. Some council members expressed the need for adherence to committee procedures, resulting in the decision to withdraw the item without prejudice for future deliberation.

Public participation in the meeting included comments from community members, with one expressing support for the local police union and advocating for more inspectors in public schools. Another participant raised traffic enforcement concerns.

The meeting also addressed logistical issues, such as the absence of translation services. A councilor raised concerns about the lack of translation at recent meetings, which could impact constituents. The council president assured that efforts were underway to secure a new translation service provider.

The council concluded by approving the removal of a handicap parking space on Mon Street, following a public hearing where no opposition was voiced. Plans for future ordinance discussions were set, with an upcoming meeting scheduled to address new business items.