Council member Flom praises downtown BID for successful holiday parade

In the heart of Oshkosh, city council members gathered under the bright lights of city hall, ready to reflect on recent community events and tackle pressing municipal matters. The atmosphere was filled with a sense of gratitude as Council Member Flom took a moment to commend the downtown Business Improvement District (BID) for orchestrating a spectacular holiday parade. With over 70 entries, the event showcased the community's spirit and participation, leaving Flom hopeful for an even grander celebration next year.

Flom's enthusiasm was palpable as he expressed his appreciation for Jesse and her team, who worked tirelessly to bring the parade to life. He also shared a personal note, acknowledging his recent illness and thanking fellow council member Flom for stepping in at the last minute to judge floats and light the holiday tree in Opera House Square. This camaraderie among council members highlighted the collaborative spirit that defines Oshkosh's local governance.

As the meeting progressed, City Manager Roloff shifted the focus to more technical matters, discussing a significant contract with Clifton, Larson, Allen (CLA) aimed at improving financial processes within the city. This initiative arose from discussions during budget workshops, reflecting the council's commitment to enhancing efficiency and accountability in city operations. Roloff assured the council that Finance Director Thomas had already begun working with CLA to outline a scope of work that would yield valuable insights and improvements.

In addition to the financial contract, Roloff touched on ongoing issues related to stormwater management and capital improvement projects, indicating that the city is actively addressing infrastructure needs. He also mentioned the West Fifth and West Seventh street issues, which are still under negotiation with contractors, emphasizing the council's dedication to resolving these challenges.

As the meeting drew to a close, Deputy Mayor moved to enter a closed session to discuss employment matters concerning public employees, signaling the council's ongoing commitment to transparency and responsible governance. The evening wrapped up with a sense of accomplishment and anticipation for the future, as Oshkosh continues to navigate the complexities of city management while fostering a vibrant community spirit.