Athens City Council - May 26, 2026

The Athens City Council held committee meetings on May 26, 2026, covering several procurement and budget-related topics. The Finance and Personnel Committee discussed staffing ordinance adjustments due to retirements, including reductions in lab technicians, parking enforcement, and water meter reader positions. They also addressed non-union pay band changes and budget transfers, such as a $30,000 reallocation for police cruiser vehicle leases. The Transportation Committee reviewed a federal-local project agreement for a major road repair on State Route 682-33, a 2027 project with an estimated cost of approximately $498,000, with the city contributing about 7% of the cost. Additionally, they approved an amendment for street closures related to the July 4th celebration to accommodate a Soap Box Derby event. The Planning and Development Committee discussed the mandated 5-year review and proposed expansion of the DORA (Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area), highlighting community support and business benefits. Lastly, the City and Safety Services Committee approved the city's application for 2026 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds, totaling $120,000, to improve ADA accessibility at the intersection of State Street and Court Street, a project that had previously faced bidding challenges. These discussions included motions to move ordinances forward for council approval and budget appropriations for capital improvement projects.