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Severance council approves $12,000 to continue lobbying for unique ZIP‑code effort
Summary
Mayor Friess and Town Manager Wharton described a national coalition pushing for ZIP‑code designations; council approved a $12,000 contribution to the coalition's lobby firm to continue advocacy in Washington, D.C.
Mayor Friess updated the council on a multi‑community coalition working to secure unique ZIP‑code designations so tax receipts and first‑responder routing align with municipal boundaries. He described a recent trip to Washington, D.C., where he and Town Manager Nick Wharton met with senators’ offices and lobbyists to press the case.
The mayor asked the council to approve $12,000 to fund Severance’s portion of the coalition’s lobby firm. After council discussion about public safety concerns and potential tax revenue recovery, Councilmember Hessler moved to approve the funds with Councilmember Gallardi seconding. The motion carried on a unanimous roll call.
Mayor Friess emphasized the public‑safety rationale — delayed first‑responder routing in some 911 incidents — and framed the funding as an investment that could be recouped if the town ultimately collects more sales tax tied to correct ZIP‑code routing. Staff will execute the contract if the council’s motion is ratified.
