The Stuart City Council met in special session Wednesday night.

The Council approved the purchase of a new Ford Explorer Police Interceptor Utility to be purchased from Krieger’s Chevrolet for just over $45,000. The vehicle will replace the Police Department’s 2007 Ford Crown Victoria, which has already been out of service for three years. Chief David Reha says the department’s Chevy Trailblazer patrol vehicle is currently in the shop for repairs, and its future as a reliable service vehicle is unknown.

Plus, the Council declined Mayor Dick Cook’s recommendation to appoint Wayne Gilman and Shirley Jones to the Utility Board. Councilor Crawford says the recent retirement of two Utility Board members gives the Council the opportunity to seek candidates who will allow for the best future working relationship between the two entities, and he would like to hear from more potential candidates. The Council voted to advertise the board positions. Anyone interested in serving on the Utility Board or learning more about the positions is encouraged to call or stop by City Hall.

Additionally, after being closed for over two months, Division Street in downtown Stuart reopened to the public early Wednesday evening.  The Stuart Police Department reminds motorists to remain cautious in the area as construction continues. Stay tuned to Raccoon Valley Radio for more information on the downtown Stuart infrastructure project.