Charlestown board approves $10,860 landscaping contract and swears in two reserve officers

The Charlestown Board of Public Works and Safety met March 19, 2026, and unanimously approved two routine items: a contract award for landscaping services and the swearing-in of two reserve police officers.

Mayor Treva Hodges presided over the 10 a.m. meeting at City Hall. Police Chief Eric Ki'use asked the board to approve swearing in two reserve officers. Ernie Thompson moved to approve the two reserves and Maggie Wild seconded; the board voted 3-0 to approve. Mayor Hodges then administered the oath to Reserve Officers Dylan Kinser and Stephen Mulhall.

The board also considered bids for mowing, weeding, edging, blowing, litter removal on Market Street medians and on Highway 62 within city limits east of Jim Lewis Parkway for a 32-week growing period, plus weekend watering of about 12 hanging baskets for roughly 14 weeks. Four quotes were listed: Vaughn’s Lawns ($10,860), Forever Lawn ($27,508), Green Scapes ($15,760), and Blue Skies LawnN Landscape ($24,300). Three reference letters supported the lowest bidder.

Maggie Wild moved to authorize Mayor Hodges to execute a contract with Vaughn’s Lawns after the agreement is drafted by the city attorney; Ernie Thompson seconded, and the motion passed 3-0. The motion authorized the mayor to sign the contract once the city attorney completes the draft.

The board approved routine minutes, claims, and a payroll voucher for the period 2/23/2026–3/15/2026 earlier in the meeting, and adjourned following the new-business votes.

Actions taken will be reflected in the city’s signed minutes; no additional public hearings or contested debate were recorded during this session.