The Council also adopted an ordinance for the partial vacation of Heisen Drive after hearing from City Engineer Brian McCarthy and concerned citizen Annette Alvan, who sought to preserve the wooded area on her property. The ordinance’s adoption was a response to the need for maintaining natural buffer zones and protecting wildlife amidst growing urban development.

Further, the Council took a step towards enhancing the city’s recreational facilities by approving the resurfacing of the Whiteway tennis courts. The $71,000 project, which will also accommodate pickleball play, is expected to rejuvenate the popular sports venue.

A significant part of the meeting was dedicated to discussing employee engagement and satisfaction within the city’s workforce. The presentation of an employee engagement survey showed a positive trend in job satisfaction and a strong sense of public service motivation among city employees. High morale was reported, with 42% indicating an improvement from the previous year. The council members recognized the importance of effective communication about available city programs, such as tuition reimbursement and wellness programs, to address high employee turnover. They discussed the need for strategic review and ongoing campaigns to raise awareness of employee benefits, especially for new hires during the onboarding process.

Council Member Chambers raised a concern about low employee participation rates in surveys. This issue tied into the broader discussion on the onboarding process for new employees.

In a move to foster local pride and engagement, the Council introduced the “city flag challenge” to solicit public designs for a new city flag. The initiative was part of a broader discussion on city identity and branding, which also touched on the origins and promotion of the “Double TT” branding.

The meeting also saw the presentation of a proclamation for Government Finance Professionals Week, honoring the dedication of state finance professionals, including the finance director and assistant finance director. Amy Hutchla, the dispatch training coordinator, was recognized for her work and her involvement with the nonprofit 911 Wonder Woman.

Celebrating cultural diversity, the Council presented a proclamation in honor of Ramadan and Muslim heritage month, recognizing the city’s rich cultural fabric.

The city’s efforts to enhance public safety were also reviewed, with updates on the fire department’s activities and training programs. Additionally, the council received reports on ongoing construction projects, the progress of a stormwater and flood mitigation project, and plans for future infrastructure improvements, such as road resurfacing and sidewalk construction.

Community concerns were addressed, including noise regulations and the impact of construction on local neighborhoods, as well as topics raised during public comments, such as environmental conservation, public transportation, and traffic congestion.

The council concluded the meeting by discussing upcoming community events, including the Smoke and Shot Clay Shoot charity fundraiser for firefighters and the Bike with the Mayor event.