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Residents press council on code enforcement, traffic and e-bike safety; chief highlights bike patrols and drone funding
Summary
Multiple residents told the council Smyrna needs stronger code enforcement and better traffic controls; Chief Doner said new bike patrols logged more than 20 miles and that the department obtained $14,000 in SLEAF funding for a drone, while two officers were sworn in.
Several Smyrna residents used the June 15 public-comment period to press the council for firmer code enforcement, improved street maintenance and action on traffic and e-bike safety.
"It's getting to the point where I'm embarrassed to tell people I live in Smyrna," resident Brooks Keen said, praising recent police bicycle patrols but criticizing long-running maintenance problems across from town hall. Gail Robinson thanked the department for a rapid response to a recent house fire and urged residents to call firefighters immediately rather than attempting to fight a blaze themselves.
Vicky Blair raised a boundary and maintenance question for properties along Carter Road and asked the town to clarify whether frontage to the curb is the homeowner's responsibility. Council and staff discussed right-of-way and setback issues and said staff would investigate ownership lines and enforce applicable rules.
Resident Dave Man. criticized a council appointment that he said disregarded voters, listed unresolved issues such as abandoned vehicles, speeding and poor street patches, and urged council members and the chief to conduct ride-alongs. He also renewed a prior call for action on e-bikes and e-scooters after a reported fatality.
Chief Doner responded that new bike patrols are already operating; "They actually logged over 20 miles" on patrol, he said, and officers used the patrols for safety outreach including helmet and e-bike safety. The chief also announced the department secured $14,000 in funding through the SLEAF committee to purchase a drone; he said training and equipment are being funded so the purchase would not come out of the town's operating budget.
The council swore in two new officers, William Connelly and Joshua Gail, during the meeting; Chief Doner congratulated them and noted awards for officers and graduation from the academy.
Council members acknowledged the public concerns and staff said they would follow up on property ownership, code enforcement patrols and planned collection of evidence on maintenance responsibilities. No ordinance changes or formal votes on enforcement policy were made at the meeting.
