River Bend council appoints planning board member, approves grant application and awards Mulberry drainage contract

River Bend — At its Nov. 13 work session the River Bend Town Council approved a series of administrative and project actions, moving forward appointments, grant applications and a small capital contract.

Planning board appointment: The Council voted unanimously to appoint Richard Taylor to the Planning Board for a term beginning Nov. 13, 2025 and ending June 30, 2027 after a board member resigned following five missed meetings. Councilman Brian Leonard flagged a discrepancy in the town ordinance about excused versus unexcused absences and asked that staff clarify the code later.

Pickleball grant: The Town Manager told the Council he identified a possible grant for a pickleball court and asked whether the Council would provide the required local match. Councilman Brian Leonard moved to direct the Town Manager to apply for the grant; the motion carried unanimously. The minutes do not specify grant amount, source, or the size of the local match.

Kayak access during wastewater work: With construction underway at the wastewater treatment project, the Town Manager described unsafe conditions at the town kayak launch and proposed temporarily closing access as needed. He said owners of the nearby Saltwater Grill agreed to allow kayakers to use their private boat launch at no charge. The Council unanimously authorized the Town Manager to close the town launch as needed during the project.

Mulberry drainage contract award: The Town Manager reported bids were received for the Mulberry drainage improvement project and that The RB Group, Inc. was the lowest bidder. Councilwoman Lisa Benton moved to award the contract in the amount of $26,269 to The RB Group, Inc.; the motion passed unanimously.

Communications policy work: During the meeting Councilwoman Lisa Benton raised concerns that memos released on official town letterhead can appear to state the town's official position. The Town Attorney advised using a disclaimer indicating statements are made in an individual capacity; the Council asked the Town Manager and attorney to draft language so the practice can be codified.

What happens next: Staff will process the Planning Board appointment paperwork; the Town Manager will apply for the pickleball grant if the Council supports a local match; the Manager is authorized to close kayak launch access as safety requires; and the Mulberry drainage contract will be awarded to The RB Group, Inc. for $26,269. The minutes record all motions as carrying unanimously.