Auburn designates May 2025 as National Public Works Week honoring community contributions

The City of Auburn, Maine, held a City Council Workshop and Meeting on May 19, 2025, focusing on several key agenda items, including a proclamation for National Public Works Week, budget approvals, and a credit enhancement agreement for a historic property.

The meeting commenced with a proclamation read by Mayor Jeffrey D. Harmon, designating the week of May 31, 2025, as National Public Works Week in Auburn. The proclamation highlighted the essential role of public works professionals in maintaining infrastructure and enhancing community well-being. The mayor encouraged residents to participate in activities planned for the week, including an open house at the Public Works facility on May 31, featuring family-friendly events.

Following the proclamation, the council moved to the open session, inviting public comments on items not on the agenda. No members of the public chose to speak, leading to the closure of this session.

The council then addressed unfinished business, beginning with the second reading of the municipal budget for fiscal year 2026. A motion to adopt the appropriations was made by Councilor Walker and seconded by Councilor Cowen. After a brief discussion, the council voted by roll call, resulting in six votes in favor and one against, thus adopting the budget.

Next, the council considered the authorization of general obligation bonds amounting to $11,762,700 to finance the city's fiscal year 2026 capital improvement program. This item also underwent a second reading and public hearing. After no public comments were made, the council voted again by roll call, with the same outcome of six in favor and one opposed, leading to the adoption of the bond authorization.

In new business, the council discussed a credit enhancement agreement for the Charles Jordan House located at 63 Academy Street. Councilor Walker moved to approve the agreement, with Councilor Geary seconding the motion. The Charles Jordan House is recognized as a historic residence, and the agreement aims to support its preservation.

The meeting concluded with a structured discussion of the agenda items, reflecting the council's commitment to community engagement and infrastructure development. The next steps include the implementation of the approved budget and bond measures, as well as further discussions regarding the enhancement agreement for the historic property.