The council’s discussion on the state of the garbage trucks was significant, as they noted the acquisition of a new truck but highlighted issues with two side loaders. One side loader was deemed beyond repair, requiring a new engine with an estimated cost of $56,000, while the other was undergoing transmission PTO repair, estimated at $20,000. Consequently, the city has resorted to using a rear loader and a rental truck for garbage collection. Concerns were raised about worker safety, referencing a past incident involving a worker named Joe Adams, which prompted a council member to advocate for acquiring a new garbage truck to ensure safety and reliability.

The financial aspects of renting additional trucks were also discussed, with rental costs potentially reaching $8,500 per month. There was a proposal to explore options for securing a truck and driver, with suggestions that some drivers could assist in operating a rented truck. The feasibility of this arrangement was to be further investigated. The conversation also included discussions on electric vehicles (EVs), with some indicating federal assistance for electric school buses. However, there were strong objections regarding the safety and practicality of transitioning to electric vehicles for city operations, particularly during emergencies.

In addition to the garbage truck issues, the council addressed several budget amendments. The first amendment concerned the local option gas tax, requiring an adjustment of $300,000 due to previously approved project expenditures, which received unanimous approval. Another amendment was discussed regarding legal fees, which were under-budgeted, proposing a contract for up to $52,000, including a $36,000 retainer. This amendment was also unanimously supported.

The council further addressed a budget amendment for the ARPA funds, emphasizing the need to redirect remaining funds towards a garbage truck and other essential departmental needs.

Discussions also revolved around setting the millage rate for the fiscal year 2025-2026. The council was presented with options to maintain the current rate of 5.8336 or increase it to the maximum allowable rate of 6.4272. After deliberation, a motion was made to keep the mill rate at 5.8336, passing with a vote of four in favor and one against. The council acknowledged that the rate could be adjusted downward in the future if circumstances changed.

The council also considered improvements to the downtown area, discussing a grant application for signage enhancement. The grant aimed to improve commercial signage, with funds for facade improvements limited to $22,000 per facade. This project was expected to take time, potentially pushing completion to a year down the road.

In other matters, the council appointed Mr. Mark Southerntherly to the Perry Fire Pension Board of Trustees, which received unanimous support. The city manager reported on the hiring process for a new police officer and updates on the hydrant flushing and maintenance program. A parcel of land on Plantation Road, damaged by a hurricane, was also discussed, with interest from a local resident in purchasing and maintaining the parcel. The council considered the sale as the land served no current municipal purpose and was located in a flood zone.

Additionally, the council addressed concerns about the scheduling of meetings, particularly the decision to cancel a recent meeting due to a lack of agenda items. One member suggested that any decision to cancel meetings should be made collectively by the council, rather than by the mayor alone, highlighting a need for clarity in the decision-making process.

The meeting concluded with discussions on city maintenance, particularly mowing and managing overgrown areas, and the exploration of auxiliary dwelling units (ADUs) in the context of affordable housing. The council expressed interest in exploring options for detached ADUs and potential changes to the city’s land development regulations to facilitate their implementation.