The Stuart City Council met Monday night in special session.

The Council held a public hearing for an amendment to the urban renewal area, which the Council approved. Part of the amendment included using tax increment financing for arterial street improvements, support the DICA Marketing Company with construction of a new manufacturing facility, along with TIF funds for sidewalk projects, and the City’s Saints Center Support Program.  

The Council then heard a White Pole Road update with Forrest Aldrich. Three options were presented, including using debt service to reimburse the county’s contribution, expanding the ag business park and truck route restrictions. The Council agreed to review the options and make a presentation at the next council meeting.

Following an update on the cultural center, the Council voted 3-1 to use up to $30,000 in tax increment financing to support the expenses of the facility for one year and reassess after that year. The one no vote was Council member Mick Askren with Council member Theresa Glass absent. The Council then set April 12th as the public hearing date for a Community Development Block Grant application for rescue unit equipment, and for a gas franchise fee with MidAmerican Energy. 

Additionally, the Council approved the 2021 officers for the fire department with Josh Renslow as chief, a cemetery mowing bid from Countryside Lawn Solution for $26,500 each year for two years and an $8,021 bid from Stuart Napa for a lawn mower for the streets department