The Lancaster City Council convened on February 25, 2025, to discuss various city matters. The meeting began with the approval of minutes from the previous work session held on February 11, 2025.
Monthly Reports:
The council reviewed the monthly reports for January 2025. Department heads were available to address any questions from the council members. Discussions included applications under review by the Planning, Zoning, and Building Department, as well as inquiries about vehicle registrations and parking regulations within city limits.
Information Technology (IT) Updates:
The IT department reported on ongoing efforts to upgrade the city’s technological infrastructure. Plans include replacing outdated network switches to enhance internet speeds and transitioning data storage to cloud-based systems. A scheduled firewall installation at the police station was announced, aiming to improve network security. This installation was set for Friday at 6:00 PM, during which all city systems, including dispatch, would be temporarily offline.
Financial Report:
The Finance Director presented the cash management and finance report for January 2025. Key points included:
-
The general fund showed a deficit of approximately $2 million, primarily due to $2.8 million in Capital Improvement Program (CIP) expenditures, including $930,000 for roads and $460,000 for the old post office and other projects.
-
An additional $1.5 million in property tax rollback revenue was received in early February, which was not reflected in the January report.
-
The city ended January with nearly $8.4 million in unrestricted cash, equating to 151 days of operational expenses.
-
Hospitality tax collections were on track, with expenditures including a $180,000 purchase of a parking lot next to the old post office.
-
Gross revenue and consumption figures for water and sewer services were slightly down in December but remained within projected budgets.
-
Solid waste services were performing well, with revenues at or above projections, particularly in roll-off container services due to increased construction activity.
Resolution 25-2:
The council considered Resolution 25-2, authorizing the consumption of beer and wine at the Shamrock Block Party scheduled for March 15, 2025, from noon until 10:00 PM. The event area would be expanded to include Main Street and Gay Street to enhance safety for attendees crossing Highway 521. Council members discussed measures to prevent overconsumption of alcohol, noting that each establishment is responsible for monitoring alcohol service. The resolution was approved unanimously.
Ordinance 25-2:
The first reading of Ordinance 25-2 was held, proposing the annexation of a 1.4-acre parcel located near Grace Avenue, owned by DBJ Properties LLC. The property is intended for the development of a single-family residential unit. Annexation is required to connect the property to city water and sewer services. The council discussed the property’s location, current access via a dead-end road, and potential future developments in the area. The ordinance passed its first reading unanimously.
Other Matters:
No additional matters were brought before the council. The meeting adjourned following a motion and unanimous approval.
Sign up for our Sunday Spectator. Delivered to your inbox every Sunday, with all the news from the week.
