Planning Commission honors retiring city manager as staff outline water, roads and park projects

The Planning Commission recognized City Manager Rick Daniels with a certificate noting his appointment in 2013 and retirement effective 10/06/2023. The resolution recited accomplishments during Daniels' tenure including updated general-plan and housing elements, permitted cannabis business square footage totals cited by staff, and more than $24 million in infrastructure and park grants.

In the city-manager report, Daniels and staff updated the commission on capital projects: funding has been identified to repave River Road using proceeds from a surplus property sale; the L Street booster station is expected to be complete by month-end; a new $8 million water-treatment plant is under construction to bring three previously disqualified wells back into service; and City Council awarded a $4 million grant for Duke Watkins Park improvements (play equipment, field lights and a pump track) with construction to start within weeks.

Staff warned of a cash-flow timing issue: contractors invoice early in the project but state reimbursement can take up to six months, and the city may need to arrange a short-term line of credit to bridge reimbursements and contractor payments. Council and staff also noted ongoing street projects funded by a federal or congressional grant of about $800,000 targeted for school-area road improvements.

The commission offered brief remarks of appreciation for Daniels' service and took a group photo before moving to final business and adjournment.