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Trenton council swears in deputy chief, approves contract and permit authorizations, sets closed session
Summary
At Mondays meeting the Trenton City Council sworn in Frank Canning as deputy police chief, appointed a member to the Historical Commission, authorized Wayne Countys 2026 permit package, approved a consulting contract with Plant Moran (not to exceed $99,000), scheduled a closed session on litigation, and approved $593,645.09 in disbursements.
The Trenton City Council on Monday evening sworn in Frank Canning as deputy chief of police, approved several administrative actions and scheduled a closed session to receive a litigation update.
Chief Hawkins introduced Frank Canning, noting Canning recently retired from the city of Taylors department where he led the detective bureau and worked on the hostage negotiating team. During the swearing-in Canning recited the oath, including "I do solemnly swear that I will support the Constitution of the United States ... and that I will faithfully perform the duties of the office of deputy chief of police in and for the city of Trenton." The council and audience congratulated him.
The council unanimously approved the administrations request to authorize city officials to sign Wayne Countys 2026 annual permit package, which, as Kevin Sargent, DPS director, explained, covers maintenance and pavement restoration work and special-event road closures on Wayne County-owned roads and rights of way.
Elizabeth Perry, the citys HR director, asked the council to approve a consulting agreement with Plant Moran Group Benefit Advisors to assist with health and welfare plan renewals and design. Perry said the consulting fee "will not exceed $99,000" and noted the city paid about $80,000 for similar consulting last year. The council approved the contract by unanimous motion.
In appointments business the council confirmed Caitlin Spezia to the Historical Commission for a term ending Dec. 1, 2028. The clerk called the roll; the appointment carried with six votes in favor and one abstention by Mayor Rezeppa.
The council moved and supported a closed session immediately following the meeting to discuss litigation; a roll call showed the motion carried with all present voting yes. Council also approved authorized disbursements dated Dec. 1, 2025, in the amount of $593,645.09.
Members used the meeting for community reminders and condolences. Mayor Rezeppa thanked responding officers after a recent shooting incident and reminded residents the downtown Christmas parade and tree lighting will be held Saturday at 6:00 p.m. Angelia Fusino, DDA director, promoted the Noel Knights holiday events, noting sponsors and participating businesses and encouraging public attendance.
The council observed a moment of silence for former councilman Jack Kripowitz and adjourned the regular meeting at 7:24 p.m.; the scheduled closed session on litigation followed.
Votes at a glance: Appointment of Caitlin Spezia to the Historical Commission (term to 12/01/2028) Outcome: Approved; Roll call recorded six yes, one abstain (Mayor Rezeppa). Wayne County 2026 annual permit package authorization Outcome: Approved unanimously. Plant Moran Group Benefit Advisors consulting agreement (not to exceed $99,000) Outcome: Approved unanimously. Motion to hold closed session for litigation update Outcome: Approved by roll call (all present yes). Authorized disbursements 12/01/2025, $593,645.09 Outcome: Approved unanimously.
What happens next: The council will convene the closed session on litigation immediately following the regular meeting; the next regular meeting was announced for Monday, Dec. 22 at 7 p.m.
