This week’s City Council Meeting saw approximately 15 people in the audience and lasted just over 20 minutes.
Old Business Oopsie
In City Council’s only old business agenda item an updated resolution authorizing the purchase and financing of a skidsteer and front end loader was approved. At their last meeting the resolution which was passed had the incorrect vendor receiving payment and one instance of incorrect percentage the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) would take on. The DDA agreed to pay 25% of of the front end loader rather than the 40% previously indicated. New resolutions were passed fixing both errors.
Arbor Board Tree Plan
The first item in the new business section was the presentation of the Arbor Board’s Comprehensive Tree Plan. The board’s intended activities are outlined each April for the upcoming fiscal year. The Arbor Board oversees spring and fall plantings, caring for trees, plants, and shrubs on city owned property and along any right-of-way locations, and coordinating Arbor Day celebrations.
Funding for projects managed by the Arbor Board come from contributions from the City of Lowell, Lowell Light & Power, the LCTV Fund, the Look Fund, and Lowell Area Community Fund according to the memo presented by DPW Director Rich LaBombard to council members. A detailed list of initiatives can be found on page 86 of the agenda packet. This Friday, April 21 at noon a tree will be planted in front of the Big Boiler Brewing location.
Jefferson Street
During the City Manager report Mike Burns mentioned the Jefferson Street construction project would start on April 24. Residents along the route have been notified. There will also be an informational meeting and opportunity to ask questions on Wednesday, April 19 at 6pm in City Council Chambers.
Phase 1 Approval for Reading and Chess Garden
Friends of the Englehardt Library are working with the create a Reading and Chess Garden in front of the library. City Council members reviewed Phase 1 of the project and approved of the submitted plans. The Friends of the Library group will also contribute up to $5,000 to the city to make improvements in the garden area.
Fundraising by Friends of the Library began last fall for the project. Donations can be made at various levels starting at $75 to have a name put on a brick, plaque attached to the chess table or benches, or a plaque placed on the back of a bench. Lesser amounts are also accepted. Information on how to make a donation can be obtained at the desk at Englehardt Library.
Firework Approval
It’s not too early to start thinking about Riverwalk Festival! City Council approved the firework permit submitted by the Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce. Fireworks will launched from Stoney Lakeside Park on Saturday, July 8 as part of the annual Riverwalk Festival.
Meeting Information
The next City Council meeting will take place in Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall on Monday, April 17 at 7pm. Meeting minutes and agendas can be found on the city’s website. And meetings can be viewed on the city’s YouTube channel. Or check in with Lowell’s First Look after each meeting for a recap of what happened.
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