Athens City Council - September 21, 2026

The Athens City Council held a regular session on September 21, 2026, addressing several procurement and budget-related matters. Key procurement discussions included the repeal of a lease ordinance for the former fire department headquarters and authorization for the service safety director to advertise and accept sealed bids for its sale, with a minimum bid set at one-third of the county auditor's appraised value. Concurrently, an ordinance was introduced to convey the property to the Athens Community Improvement Corporation if no acceptable bids are received, allowing for negotiated sales to ensure community-appropriate use. The council also approved an amendment to the 2026 appropriation ordinance to authorize interfund transfers to the medical fund related to the employee retirement incentive program. Additionally, the council discussed a small appropriation for a digital oxygen sensor for the sewer fund, which will return for further reading. Other notable topics included appointments to various commissions and a robust discussion on flooding issues in the city, with calls for comprehensive plans and potential funding for backflow prevention devices to protect private properties. No direct contract awards or vendor selections were made during this meeting, but the sale of city property and budget amendments indicate ongoing procurement activity.