It was a quiet Monday night at the Collegedale city commission meeting.
In his report, City Manager Ted Rogers said the city is waiting for auditors to finalize finance reports for the 2009-2010 fiscal year. “Over the recession, there has been a $100,000 decrease in sales tax revenue in Collegedale,” he said. “As the economy improves, I don’t know if we will see a complete rebound. This could be a new norm.”
Mike Newberry presented an update on the Arts in the Park Festival, a showcase of student art to be held in Veterans Park on September 12. “It’s a way to celebrate our kids’ talent,” said Mr. Newberry, who is chairman of the festival. “We hope to have the public donate money to get art back in the schools.”
Twenty-nine vendors have signed up for the festival, which is to include local musical acts and an opening ceremony. Student pieces from 26 schools will be showcased, said Mr. Newberry. “We’re doing pretty well on finances,” although they are still $3,000 short of expenses paid.
Commissioner Larry Hanson reminded the commission that a soapbox derby rally is planned on the opposite side of Apison Pike during the Arts in the Park festival.
Ordinance #752 passed on first reading, containing regulations for the new dog park, located near the end of the Greenway by the Nature Nook. City Attorney Sam Elliott adapted the rules from an Amherst, Massachusetts dog park, but invited suggestions to the list before the final reading next commission meeting.
Commissioners approved on first reading ordinances #752-756, concerning zoning and annexation of the Collegedale Pump Station and plots on McDonald Road.
Vice Mayor Time Johnson and Commissioner Debbie Baker were not present.