Council moves: consent calendar, meeting schedule change, comp‑time and parks updates

The Preston City Council handled several routine but practical items during its meeting.

Consent calendar: The council approved routine items including minutes from Sept. 23, payment of bills, the treasurer's quarterly report through Sept. 30, and several bond refunds (including refunds involving Becky Snyder and Jaden and Lily Panter). A motion to approve the consent calendar was made and seconded and the council voted unanimously to adopt it.

Meeting schedule: Because the council's first November meeting falls on Veterans Day (Nov. 11), members discussed rescheduling or canceling. After motions and discussion the council voted to cancel the Nov. 11 meeting in observance of Veterans Day.

Comp time: The mayor said he directed an extension of comp time to address staffing shortfalls, particularly in the police department, and asked the council to ratify the action through Nov. 29. The council ratified the mayor's decision unanimously.

Parks and facilities: Councilmember Thomas reported that large parking‑lot lights at Rainer Field were not receiving power following recent work; staff said pavilion and restroom power remain available and that an electrician would evaluate whether overhead or underground work is required, with any costs coming from the regular budget. Staff also updated the council on wastewater treatment plant construction, reporting major concrete pours scheduled to be completed by Oct. 15 and early equipment installations beginning in the Headworks and Field Restoration buildings.

These items concluded the open portion of the meeting before the board recessed into executive session for personnel and potential litigation.