The Stuart City Council met in regular session last night. They held a public hearing on the 2017-2018 City Budget and voted unanimously to approve the budget. No comments were offered during the public hearing.  

They also accepted the final draft of the housing needs assessment. The council unanimously approved the draft.

The council discussed the Depot and its future in the community after Doris Bench presented a request for the facility to be used for a graduation party.  The council wants to encourage responsible use of the facility and will offer it for events for a $25 rental fee and $25 deposit. The council members agreed that if the facility is to be appreciated it needs to be used.

During a discussion with Caliber Concrete completing around the final pay estimate for the downtown streets project council members raised concerns about sidewalk panels that have textures that do not match and street lights that were not completely installed. They have heard from a number of property owners upset with the work and want those owners to sign off on the work before they complete the payment process. 90% of the project cost has already been disbursed to the contractor and crews are doing finish work and punch list items.

The council closed the meeting with the appointment of Art Allen to the Planning and Zoning Board.