The Stuart City Council met in regular session Monday night.

The Council heard from a resident on an issue where sewage from a private sewer line was backing up into their basement, but could not take action as the sewer line is privately owned. They also approved a White Pole Road kiosk outside Stuart City Hall, heard an informational presentation on community safety measures, and tabled a decision on hiring a fifth police officer, as Stuart Police Chief Dave Reha wanted to wait until next month to make sure funds from a grant that was applied for were available.

The Council also heard from Jon Welker, who will be the new wastewater operator after Public Works Director Jim Henderson’s retirement, and approved the hiring of Steven Martinson in the public works department. They also approved an amendment to the urban renewal plan, a development agreement with Duncan Construction, LLC, and to allow for HVAC to be placed on city property in the Pocket Park, so long as it is as far south as possible, with a protective barrier like a railing or fence.

The Council then approved a resolution for the issuance of $8.57 million in general obligation annual appropriation corporate purpose bonds, having Stuart Economic Director Matt Funk help with the current backlog of nuisance violations, and a bid of $7,036 from Scott Concrete to install a sidewalk on All Saints Lot 33 with the retention pond. Mayor Dick Cook appointed Charles Erik and reappointed Brian Beldman to the Utility Board, along with appointing Cappie Tom to the Historic Preservation Commission, and appointing Sarah Reha to the Adair County Tourism Board. At the end of the meeting, Cook also read a letter from Councilman David Doely, resigning from the City Council effective September 8, 2025. Doely mentioned in his letter that he had enjoyed his time with his peers on the Council, but that it was time for him to step away and allow someone else to take the seat.