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Washington Park board weighs drainage and wetlands buffers, approves staff raise and routine financial items
Summary
At its Feb. 3 meeting, Washington Park commissioners reviewed municipal building landscaping and standing-water fixes, discussed revising the noxious‑growth ordinance for wetlands, agreed to have a contractor evaluate backyard ditching, approved a town credit card resolution, and granted a $1/hour raise to an employee completing probation.
Washington Park commissioners on Feb. 3 heard updates and took several routine actions including personnel, drainage evaluations and financial approvals.
Derek Cooper, representing the Townscape Committee, presented proposed changes around the Municipal Building: removing existing shrubs and replacing them with holly bushes and gardenias, keeping the river birches, and adding a solar light for the flagpole. Stuart Dudley provided a $550 quote for shrub removal; Cooper estimated $1,100 for new plants, mulch and topsoil but said that did not include possible grading or drainage work. The board asked for a rendering and an estimated budget before authorizing removal.
The board also discussed standing water near the Municipal Building and potential fixes including installing a swale, adding gutters, or creating a gravel bed; commissioners considered widening the walkway with pavers to improve ADA access.
Commissioner Lee Bowen read the town's noxious‑growth ordinance (§93.027) and recommended trimming undergrowth to 12 inches while leaving trees alone. Resident Derek Cooper told the board he did not think the town should require growth in wetlands to be cut and noted that enforcement historically excluded wetlands. Commissioners discussed establishing a 20‑ to 30‑foot riparian buffer for designated wetlands and agreed to consult the Mid East Commission and the town attorney before making ordinance changes; Mayor pro tem Jeff Peacock began a motion to add a buffer provision but withdrew it so the clerk could follow up on procedural steps with the town attorney.
On drainage at private property, Commissioner Bowen moved, and Mayor pro tem Peacock seconded, a motion to ask Stuart Dudley to evaluate a backyard where flooding had been reported to see if the temporary ditch could be enlarged; the motion passed unanimously.
Clerk April Alligood reported January deposits totaling $42,105.03 and listed expenses including a $522 truck repair and $1,269 flood insurance renewal. The board approved a Corporate Authorization Resolution to apply for a town credit card with a $10,000 limit and $2,500 transaction limit. Commissioners also approved the January financial report and minutes.
During closed session the board considered personnel matters; after returning to open session, the board approved a $1/hour raise for Nicolas Villeda when he completes his six‑month probation on Feb. 12, 2025.
The board scheduled its next regular meeting for Monday, March 3, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at the Municipal Building and then adjourned.
