The Stuart City Council met in regular session Monday.

The Council passed a budget amendment for the current fiscal year. Debt refinancing and lowered interest on those debts has saved the city money and caused the change.

They also heard an update on the status of the Stuart Rescue Unit and their work towards complying with state regulations following last month’s audit. Interim EMS Director Dustin Capps requested two paramedics and a part-time EMS Director, also a paramedic, be hired to meet the service needs of the community. Panora EMS Director Joe Hupp, who has been hired as a consultant for Stuart’s program, argued that hiring a full-time director would be a greater benefit in the long run.

The Council also discussed the possibilities of downtown parking, but the issue was tabled pending a discussion with the planning and zoning board.