The City Council Meeting on April 24, 2023, began with an air of reverence as the Mayor led a silent prayer. Lajan Cephas was the only Council member joining the assembly remotely.
The evening commenced with presentations celebrating civic heroism, artistic initiatives, and honoring the fallen. Dr. Steve White narrated the tale of a daring rescue by citizens and police, with the Mayor bestowing citations on the brave rescuers. A presentation by Randous Wallace and former Mayor Victoria Jackson unveiled an art contest for the National Council of Negro Women. Tom Hurley, President of American Legion Post 91, discussed his book honoring Officer Daniel Beyers, the sole Cambridge Police officer to perish in the line of duty in 1953.
City Manager Tom Carroll outlined the 2024 budget and praised Finance Director Deborah Cooper’s efforts. The document is accessible on the City’s website, with work sessions scheduled for May 8th and 22nd to accommodate Council and public input.
Consent Agenda approvals included a Community Funday, an Uproar Anniversary, a 2023 Special Election, an Egypt Road Solar Easement, a contract to replace sewer and sidewalk gutters, and a Bikeway Feasibility study.
Ordinance 1216, approved by the Council, updated the City Map and expanded City ordinances to encompass all areas of the city. New business appointments included Robert Griffin and Dewey Barlow to the Utility Commission, and David Nichols and Bill Bishop to the Zoning Appeals Board.
During the Public Comment segment, Dr. Theresa Stafford requested $17,000 for youth employment, while Robert Aaron inquired about the Special Election venue. Tom Hurley urged the Council to reconsider the health care policy for city workers, especially police officers.
Pat Escher provided updates on the Rails to Trails Program, which aims to transform old railroad tracks into walking and biking trails. Councilman Chad Markus commented on the recently completed fence and retaining wall project around the cemetery on Academy Street and Cedar.
Concerned senior citizen why can’t roads be better paved at least the one on pleasant st I have been here for 7 years and the havoc it creates during rain and ice the city has had complaints from neighbors but yet no action .