The Jefferson City Council met Tuesday night in regular session.

During open forum, resident Bryan Helmus thanked the Council for how they allowed all citizens to speak during the last few meetings regarding the rezoning of a property for a proposed apartment project. He also appreciated Council member Darren Jackson for his comments regarding transparency in government.

The Council approved a temporary road closure for Thomas Jefferson Gardens of Greene County in the 100 block of South Chestnut Street from East Lincoln Way south to the alleyway for the weekly Greene County Farmers Market on Tuesdays from June 11th through September 10th and three summer concerts. The Council also approved two high sewer bills, including one for $535 at 605 West Monroe Street and the other for $5,986 at 406 North Cedar Street. The reason for the high bills was both residences had frozen water pipes that broke in crawl spaces. Council member Chad Sloan abstained from voting on the 406 North Cedar Street bill, because he had ties to the property.

Additionally, the Council approved a plat of survey for Aaron Schroeder to split a parcel and wants to sell the storage facility that is next to his crematory services. The Council also approved renewing the city’s property, liability and workers compensation insurance policies, while also agreeing to go with a $10,000 deductible for all perils per occurrence with the lowest premium payment of $103,294. 

Finally, the Council heard a report from Jefferson Matters Board President Amy MIlligan. She said their organization houses over 100 volunteers and since 2013, Jefferson Matters has received over $7 million in state grants and other funding that they have leveraged into $18 million of projects. They are also working with the National Main Street organization to be nationally accredited. Milligan also announced two awards from Iowa Tourism, including Outstanding Community and Outstanding Dining Business with The Centennial. Then Mayor Pro Tem Jackson read a proclamation on behalf of Mayor Craig Berry, who was absent from the meeting, congratulating Jefferson Matters on their awards.