The Morris City Council meeting on September 7, 2024, highlighted the ongoing housing shortage in the community, a pressing issue that has affected many residents, including the city manager. During the meeting, a council member raised concerns about the city manager's recent move to Alberta, citing the difficulty of finding affordable housing in Morris. The member requested that the council consider covering moving expenses, despite the contract stipulating that such expenses would only be reimbursed if the manager lived within city limits.

The discussion revealed a divide among council members regarding the request. Some expressed support for adhering to the original contract, emphasizing the importance of having city employees live in the community they serve. They argued that the incentive was designed to encourage city staff to become part of Morris, which is facing significant challenges in providing affordable housing options.

Other council members acknowledged the unique circumstances of the current housing market, suggesting that the city should be flexible in its approach. They recognized the efforts made by the city manager to find suitable housing and noted that previous employees had lived outside of Morris without issue. The sentiment was that while the contract was clear, the extraordinary housing situation warranted a reconsideration of the rules.

The council ultimately decided to postpone a decision on the matter, allowing for further discussion and input from all members, including the city manager, who was unable to attend the meeting. This decision reflects the council's commitment to addressing the housing crisis while balancing contractual obligations and the needs of their employees.

As Morris continues to grapple with its housing shortage, the council's discussions underscore the importance of finding solutions that support both the community's growth and the well-being of its public servants. The next steps will likely involve deeper conversations about how to navigate these challenges while fostering a vibrant and inclusive community.