The council approved resolution 2024-36 with a 4-1 vote, authorizing the purchase and installation of essential electrical panel upgrades at the Barnwell. The rehabilitation of the Barnwell, described as a complete rebuild due to the deteriorating condition of the building and electrical transformers, is to be financed by ARPA funds secured by the Utilities Department. The necessity of the upgrades was highlighted alongside discussions of the significant cost difference between the original quote and the revised estimate.

In the realm of community services, the council deliberated on the creation of a full-time shelter management position for the Williston Community Animal Rescue. With an unexpectedly high number of animals being sheltered and an increased workload, the shelter director presented the need for the role. The council considered converting two part-time positions into a full-time one, weighing the fiscal impact and the potential strain on the individual holding the position. A structured volunteer program to support the shelter’s operations was also discussed. Furthermore, the council debated the renaming of the Williston Community Animal Shelter to avoid confusion with rescue organizations. Suggestions included “Williston Animal Shelter” and “Animal Shelter of Williston,” with a resolution drafted to address both the creation of the management position and the renaming of the shelter.

The meeting then turned its attention to the Williston parks, with the approval of funds not exceeding $155,000 for new fitness equipment at Peggy O’Neal Bashan Park. The allocation would see $7,000 from the designated park fund and the remainder from the regular streets and parks materials and supplies budget. Concerns about future maintenance and repair costs were discussed, as were the current state of walking paths, light fixtures, and benches. The potential establishment of a non-profit organization, “Friends of Williston Parks,” was mentioned as a means to support park maintenance and cleanup, alleviating budget pressures for the city.

Addressing the maintenance of city facilities, there was a push for a dedicated maintenance program for the parks, with proposals to separate and define specific departments for more focused management. This came in response to the challenges of managing multiple campuses and the extensive work required.

Another resolution, 2024-43, sought authorization for the City Council president to sign an agreement with Wright Pierce Inc. for project-specific professional consulting services for the planning department. An additional $25,000 for miscellaneous professional services was discussed, emphasizing the need for expert engineering review for new developments. The resolution was unanimously approved.

The council also addressed the water intrusion issues at the existing airport terminal building. Resolution 2024-38 authorized contracting with True Force Roofing and Repairs, following a discussion on the challenges posed by the current roof design. Despite concerns about the experience of True Force with flat roofs, the resolution was approved with a 4 to 1 vote.

Further discussions on city development touched upon the project to replace the failing gutter system, the upcoming groundbreaking ceremony for a farm organized by the children’s table organization to educate children about food production, and the efficient response to recent water main repairs. The council commended the staff for their efforts during the water main breaks and inquired about potential reimbursement for staff overtime. The city manager explained the causes of the break, conservation efforts, and confirmed that there was no impact on citizens’ bills.

The meeting also featured public participation, where individuals expressed appreciation for the city’s efforts and announced community events, including a movie in the park. Topics of city park development were debated, with the council discussing the renovation of tennis courts and the addition of pickleball courts, as well as the need for expedited implementation of impact fees and the segregation of water lines in different sections of the town.