The importance of clear communication was a common theme with a number of topics on the Council’s agenda. Related subjects ranged from how the city conducts surveys to project taskforces and even technology to help citizens with hearing impairments.
Hearing impairment issues have prevented residents from being able to participate fully in City Council meetings. During Deaf Awareness Week, the city council canceled its regularly scheduled meeting. Councilman Caleb Stapp is pursuing solutions regardless of the cancellation.
Property owners outside of Deer Park have requested the city annex their land into the city limits. Architects have been selected to determine what can be done about the city hall building. Cannabis, law enforcement, and the library park were also topics of discussion.
First, a petition for annexation has been submitted to the city for a new housing development. Secondly, the council will be considering banning marijuana-related businesses. Last was regarding preservation costs for city hall and roads that are higher than expected.
Mary Hathaway stood up to address the ownership of chickens within Deer Park city limits. There had been flyers posted around town and posts on social media to gather support for the meeting held on July 20th. The room was packed with some people standing in the halls that wanted to be a part of this discussion and hear the response of council members along with city staff. Mayor Tim Verzal has asked Mary Hathaway to represent the group in favor of chickens; she accepted the role with the support of those in attendance who thought it was an eggs-cellent idea.
The grand opening of Shamrock Glen was held at the newly completed model home just off of Weber Street. The event featured giveaways along with food from Masters Brewhouse and Kona Ice.
Nearing the deadline, the Deer Park City Council has made an appointment to fill the vacancy left by Ron Scholz. Originally ten residents applied for the open position. The council opted to interview only three candidates, James Scholz, Nicholas Minzghor, and Naomi Diaz.
During the last Deer Park City Council meeting, several issues were addressed briefly. These issues regarded pedestrian ramps, COVID emergency powers, inflation regarding the annual fireworks budget, and repairs completed in parks.
Recently a survey was distributed to Deer Park civilians primarily through the mail with water and sewer bills. The topic was communication with the city. Councilmember Caleb Stapp pointed out that the delivery method may have skewed the results as it targets a specific demographic.
Filling the vacancy left by Ron Scholz and the process to be used has been decided by the Deer Park City Council. The City of Deer Park will accept applications for just a short time in order to meet the legal deadline. With Councilmember Ron Scholz’s resignation, a short window of ninety days exists for the council to appoint a replacement.