Council approves personnel-board appointments; hears park, police and beautification updates

At the regular portion of the workshop council unanimously extended Kathy Bennington’s personnel-board term and appointed Miranda Fox to a one-year seat after roll-call votes recorded as yes by Miss Mets, Miss Gregory, Mr. Hurst, Mr. Fogle, Mr. Todd and Mayor Sers.

Staff reported on the Founders Park pocket-park plan for a Water Street lot that would add picnic seating, permanent cornhole boards, a swing, shade structure, fencing tied into the adjacent cemetery frontage, and roughly six to ten off-street parking spaces. Staff will circulate a final package with exact product choices and a budget for council sign-off; the goal is to have the park substantially complete before an October event.

The police department reported that a previously authorized patrol vehicle arrived and that a February resolution will request $18,879 for equipment and upfitting (lights, markings, radios). Council members signaled support for proceeding with the February resolution.

Council also agreed to relaunch the Beautification Awards (seasonal nominations and yard signs) and reminded residents that Hometown Hero banner applications are open; staff contact Megan Shaw will accept submissions.

Several routine administrative items (post office support resolution, planning-board compensation changes) were discussed and staff will prepare the appropriate ordinances and resolutions for formal consideration at upcoming meetings.