The main topics at Monday's Council meeting were Berkley Days and budget amendments, among other matters.
Berkley Days' application was approved. Some of the changes this year include:
- A 6-foot security fence around the perimeter with two entrances and several emergency exits.
- A small entrance fee to try and deter bad actors from attending.
- Private security who will collaborate with public safety.
- No bags, except for diaper bags and purses, which are subject to search.
- No masks.
The May 9-12 event this year will include:
- Rides
- Live music stage
- Taste of Berkley (Usually Thursday)
- 5k walk/race (Sunday)
- Free Kids Zone (Sunday)
They are still building out their website, but you can find out more, or volunteer to fundraise for your organization, at berkleydays.org.
Council approved this quarter's budget amendments.
The budget reflected increased consulting costs in the communications, community development, and finance departments. These consultants were hired largely to fill critical roles while important positions were vacant. The budget should have reflected that we were not paying salaries and benefits during those periods, but it did not. That will be correct in the next amendment and will give a more accurate financial picture.
City Hall will undergo a small renovation so that the Clerk's office can better meet new state election requirements. The project is expected to take about two weeks in March and may cause some temporary closures at City Hall. This is funded through some of the money remaining from the old Court Fund and not the General Fund.
The city also entered into a contract with SMART for a new bus to help operate our senior transportation program. You can read more about the program on the Parks & Rec website.
After the regular meeting, Council held a special meeting to go into closed session to receive a privilege attorney/client communication.
My next Talk with Dennis office hours are this Saturday, February 10 from noon to 2pm at the library. Stop by anytime to ask any questions you have or share your concerns.
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