Council approves library board reappointments and several small grants

The Lowell City Council on Dec. 16 approved five reappointments to boards and commissions, including Judith Davidson to the Library Board of Trustees and Joni Bernice to the local housing authority. Judith Davidson spoke briefly to thank the council.

In related fiscal actions the council voted by roll call to accept and expend several grants: $2,500 from a Massachusetts State Police grant for the local police department; $210,000 from the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving; $674.50 from a Walmart grant for the fire department; and a $35,000 transfer for census form printing. Roll-call votes recorded 'yes' responses from councilors present.

Councilors noted these were targeted, one-time grants and that staff would manage allocations through departmental budgets. The reappointments were confirmed following roll-call votes and at least one appointee addressed the council to express appreciation.