City reports small sales-tax gain, Montebello hydrants finished; North Garden project and Station 2 design discussed

City Manager Chuck and council members discussed recent public-works activity and several ongoing projects during the manager's and council reports.

Chuck said the city eked out a $15,000 gain in year-end sales tax for the fiscal year, calling the result modest but preferable to a decline. He also reported completion of the Montebello hydrants improvements project and said the hydrants are expected to test satisfactorily.

On transportation and drainage, staff summarized the North Garden Avenue project. A public-works representative said the project will narrow the roadway and add landscaping to reduce impervious surface and increase opportunities for stormwater infiltration. Councilmember Mark asked whether the project would improve drainage at the railroad museum; staff said the project should help but that the museum's drainage issue was new to project designers and they would provide more specific information after review.

Chuck said the city issued a request for proposals for elevator maintenance services, noting the work involves coordination with Fort Huachuca. On capital projects, staff said Fire Station 2 is in design and should be ready to go out to bid; the project includes a bay door, parking-lot improvements and security fencing for equipment.

Council members raised smaller items including a remodel application listed as "remodel restaurant" for a tenant in the Vistas Apartments area and code-enforcement contacts over roosters in a residential zone; those items were acknowledged but not advanced to decision.