Lockport announces online permits, payment options, new hires and summer community events

City staff reported a set of administrative updates and community events at the meeting, including new online permitting and bill-pay options, a new hire at the wastewater treatment plant, police department news and several scheduled summer events. Staff member Darren said residents and contractors can now apply for permits online for HVAC, re-roofing, siding, veneer, and window and door replacement and can also pay bills online from the city website. Finance staff Lisa described additional payment options: online on the city website, by phone, through the drop box at city hall, and at BMO Bank. City administration announced an office relocation while building HVAC work is underway: offices will move from the main council chamber area to the gym entrance (Door 3 on the west side) for the remainder of the year while projects proceed. A new hire was introduced: William Donahue has been hired as a laborer at the wastewater treatment plant, replacing an employee who left for other work. The police liaison reported that Chris Neihart was sworn in as investigations commander on Monday, July 14; Neihart has served with the police department for 20 years and has experience on SWAT, Major Crimes Task Force and as lead detective in Lockport since February 2021. The police department will hold its annual community celebration on Saturday, August 2, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring food, vendors, children’s activities and a “touch-a-truck” display. Staff and community liaisons shared upcoming community events: weekly car shows and live music on Monday nights through Aug. 25 on State Street and Central Square; Bridal in the Park on Aug. 1 at Lincoln Landing; Movies Illuminate on Aug. 8 (movie and live performance); FireFest on Aug. 9 downtown; Bloom programming including a “Bugs: Friends and Foes” evening; and beautification recognitions to be presented Aug. 6 at the 7 p.m. meeting for entries received by the July 14 deadline. A community compost program with Urban Canopy was announced: a City Hall drop-off bin will accept “greens and browns” (no meat, oils or greasy pizza boxes); pickup by Urban Canopy is available for a fee for residents. The council was also notified that regular council meetings will move to the township building on Fale Road (the former church) while the City Hall HVAC project continues, likely through November. Council members and staff provided contact details for program questions and encouraged residents to attend the events. No formal votes were required for these informational items.