At the forefront of the council’s agenda was a resolution to move forward with a loan application for a project focused on the city’s wastewater collection system. This project, aimed at evaluating and replacing aging sewer pipes, is considered crucial for maintaining the city’s infrastructure. The council discussed the importance of the project and its favorable loan terms, featuring a low interest rate of 0.34%.

Linked to the city’s utility services, the council approved a reciprocal easement document and a State Revolving Fund loan application. The loan specified a substantial amount that would be partially forgiven, essentially halving the repayment burden on city funds. The technical aspects of the loan were discussed.

Attention was also directed toward the city’s emergency response capabilities. The council approved a motion to apply for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant, which would enable the Williston Fire Department to replace outdated air packs and testing equipment. Additionally, the council ratified the Statewide Mutual Aid Agreement.

Further infrastructure improvements were addressed through the approval of a change order for the airport terminal building project. The council approved adjustments to the ongoing construction to counteract issues such as heavy rainfall and the need for additional infrastructure. In conjunction with this, the council voted in favor of a land lease agreement for property at the airport, renewing a lease with an existing tenant and expanding land use for trailer storage.

The meeting also included a personnel decision with the temporary appointment of Meredith Martin to the Group C seat until May. The council quickly moved to approve Martin for the position after a brief discussion.

In a discussion on city employee compensation, the council decided to increase the city manager’s salary to $88,500 annually. This decision followed a performance evaluation in which the city manager received a high score of 4.8 out of five. While there was some debate over the percentage increase and its impact on the city’s budget, the council ultimately agreed on the pay raise, emphasizing the need to offer competitive salaries to maintain a skilled workforce.

The council addressed various other community-oriented topics throughout the meeting. For example, they recognized the donation of new tasers by the Florida Highway Patrol to the Williston Police Department and a speed trailer by the Bell Police Department. Furthermore, the council discussed the city’s involvement in upcoming social events, such as a cake auction and a baseball barbecue.

An additional point of discussion was the consideration of a charter review. The council members expressed differing opinions on whether the review should be conducted by the council or a special committee. The city attorney provided guidance on proper procedures and emphasized citizen involvement in the process.

Public participation during the meeting included concerns raised by a resident regarding high water bills and the difficulty in locating water meters. This prompted a response from the city manager, who provided updates on various ongoing projects like the high-speed internet initiative and the selection of a new code enforcement/animal control officer.