The Wilder City Council opened its December meeting with the Lord’s Prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance before officially swearing in newly appointed Councilman Andy Williams. After reciting the constitutional oath, Williams joined the roll call and was welcomed back by the council. Minutes from the November 3rd meeting were approved without discussion.

The meeting served as the city’s annual holiday gathering and featured a shortened agenda. No citizens or invited guests spoke. Department updates were brief: Public Works had no report; administrative staff wished residents a Merry Christmas and reviewed the October financials, which were approved unanimously. Police Chief Chad Martin announced that two new officers—Kelly and Reimer—had graduated and begun field training, marking four new recruits for the year. Fire Chief Doug McMillan reported a successful turkey raffle and reminded the public about the upcoming Breakfast with Santa event.

Mayor Smith provided a series of updates, noting that security camera installations at city buildings were now fully complete at the municipal building, with Frederick’s Landing and Public Works next in line. Issues remain with Kentucky Transportation restricting camera placement on state right-of-ways, requiring alternative installation plans. The mayor also described progress with Flock license plate readers, upcoming planning and zoning items, and recent approvals for a new UDF rebuild on Licking Pike as well as a proposed medical cannabis dispensary on Country Drive—both projects still requiring additional logistical and utility coordination.

He also addressed ongoing delays in the elevator modernization project due to a tariff-related change order and pending contractor clarification. The mayor announced that no mid-month update would be sent in December due to the holiday schedule and upcoming vacation. He also previewed January’s agenda, which will include discussion of a nuisance ordinance issue raised by a resident regarding construction hours. Additionally, he notified council of his plan to appoint Lauren Purnell to Planning and Zoning in January.

The city thanked Maxam for donating Cheryl’s Cookies for the tree lighting event and reminded everyone of the upcoming historic society tree lighting and post-event social with hot chocolate. Council members concluded the meeting with holiday wishes, praise for city staff, and congratulations to Councilman Williams. The meeting adjourned in record time, with the next scheduled meeting set for January 5th.

This summary was generated using AI.