Council hears downtown redevelopment update, approves west-side spacing for Lewis Access streetlights

Interim Administrator Sarah Tritle told the council the FY2025 audit is complete and auditors will present the audit virtually at the Feb. 10, 2026 meeting. Tritle also updated council on downtown redevelopment work concentrated on the 900 block, saying the city is working with the owner of 901 on a Catalyst Grant application, the American Legion expects its new building to be finished by fall, and west-side property owners have started improvements; one additional inspection is needed before the city evaluates sidewalk and streetlight opportunities.

Public Works Director Kene Shoop described options for extending streetlights on Lewis Access and recommended placement on the west side to allow even spacing; council consensus favored the west-side placement to avoid uneven spacing on the east side.

Fire Chief Matt Teff reported a department recognition event that included three retirements (Doug Felton, Brian Maloney and Joe Moore) totaling about 70 years of service, and he noted upcoming training opportunities for department members.

Parks and Recreation Director Ryan Anderson said Little League registration remains open until March 1, that participation in travel teams has doubled this year and that staff are managing scheduling impacts for the traditional league. Anderson also listed upcoming community events, including a Father–Daughter Dance on Feb. 7 and a Seniors vs. Seniors event on Feb. 19.

Council discussed potential development agreements for one residential and one commercial project; economic development staff asked the council for guidance on the level of city investment it would consider to support planning, but no development agreements or investment commitments were finalized at the meeting.