In a recent city council meeting, officials discussed several key topics, including the upcoming contract for abatement and demolition, and the fate of the Ayers clock, a historic downtown landmark.

The council confirmed that the contract for abatement and demolition will be presented at the next meeting, with plans to expedite the bidding process to ensure funds are encumbered before the end of the calendar year.

In a notable discussion, the council addressed the Ayers clock, which has been under city ownership for approximately a decade following a donation from the Ayers family. The family has requested the return of the clock, which is currently nonfunctional and poses a maintenance burden for the city. The council expressed unanimous support for returning the clock to the family, allowing them to manage its upkeep.

Additionally, the city manager proposed adjustments to the meeting schedule, suggesting the cancellation of sessions on December 24 and 26 due to their proximity to the holidays. The council agreed to these changes and will start the next pre-meeting earlier to accommodate a packed agenda.

Council members also shared updates on community events and initiatives, including a recent event by the Jay's Boot Fund Foundation aimed at providing boots to local high school seniors. The council highlighted the importance of community engagement and encouraged residents to apply for upcoming vacancies on the parks and recreation advisory board and the planning and zoning commission.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to community heritage and efficient governance as they navigate upcoming projects and initiatives.