City of Adrian budget projection "On the money"

From the June 9 Adrian Board of Aldermen meeting 

Plenty of accolades are in order for City Administrator Ryan Wescote as several his budget projections were "pretty close" with some within $1,000.00 as well as a few other feathers for his cap, so to speak.

One of those would be that the city's investments are doing well, currently about $212,000.00 is gathering interest close to 4%, according to his opening remarks. Construction around town is up as well as he noted that during his nearly 3 year tenure, the first couple of years the city didn't see much in terms of building permits but over the last year, there has been a significant uptick. In fact, one developer is looking at investing in Adrian with six new 6-plex living units that are on the drawing board.

Add to the list, a pet project for Wescote is a bike/walk asphalt paved path that would extend from the four way stop to the city park, or better yet all the way to the sports complex. When it comes to funding "I'll keep applying until they say yes" he noted as such a project will be contingent on upcoming replacement of the I-49 overpass as well as other coordination with MoDot. In the end, this would fit well with the current sidewalk project along 1st street and in his opinion, it would give many an alternate passage east that would be much safer.

Sidewalk projects topped a good portion of the meeting and during the budget hearing it was decided to set aside $40,000 for now from the capital improvement funds for said projects. A lot of feedback was heard regarding where sidewalks need to be replaced/installed with one comment from Jeff Vick that starting in the area of the school and working outward might be a good bet. Grants are available for sidewalk development and Wescote is currently working with Kaysinger and others with updates as soon as the July meeting.

Another thought was that any new construction within city limits should include a requirement that the builder construct a sidewalk in front of the home with an approved concrete apron and culvert. This likely will be discussed more in upcoming meetings, public input is always welcomed.

On behalf of the Adrian Optimist Club, Dwayne Lockard spoke to the aldermen about plans for the Independence Day celebration at the park set for June 28th. There will be several new things this year and Lockard mostly wanted to discuss simpler parking arrangements and other activities closer to the main shelterhouse. Permission granted.

Since July 4th falls on a Friday this year, allowing firework sales within city limits was approved through the following day and the existing ordinance will be modified so that when the holiday falls on a Friday again the provision will be automatic.

The feral cat issue seems to be getting under control. There are three primary areas of concern around town and as one has been dealt with reasonable success, city officials are now directing their attention to the other two.

Remember the Adrian Board of Aldermen meet on the second Monday, 7 pm, at city hall. The public is highly encouraged to attend.