During a recent government meeting, the Waynesboro City Council discussed several key items, including the potential closure of an unimproved alley and significant amendments to the fiscal year 2025 budget.

The council held a public hearing regarding an ordinance to close and vacate approximately 1,000 square feet of unimproved alley located between Harding Avenue and Allison Avenue. Leslie Tate, the Director of Community Development, explained that the request came from the property owner at 1501 Harding Avenue, who has maintained the area for over eight years and wishes to extend their property to build a garage. The city appointed three viewers to assess the request, who reported that closing the alley could inconvenience the public by limiting access for vehicles and emergency services. However, city staff noted that there are no immediate plans to improve the alley and that no public utilities are located within it. The property owner would purchase the land for $3,250 if the ordinance is approved, with final consideration scheduled for the council's meeting on October 25.

In another significant discussion, the council considered an amendment to the fiscal year 2025 budget amounting to $8,937,366. Cameron McCormick presented the amendment, which primarily involves rolling forward encumbrances from the previous year, including funds for a digester repair project and various smaller purchases across multiple city funds. The amendment is required due to state code stipulations for budget changes exceeding 1% of the current budget. A public hearing was held, but no citizens signed up to speak. The council will also revisit this item for final consideration on October 25.

Additionally, the council discussed proposed amendments to the city code regarding tax relief for elderly and disabled citizens. The proposed changes aim to increase the financial thresholds for eligibility, potentially expanding the number of recipients. The last update to these parameters was in 2020, and the council is considering adjustments for the upcoming tax year 2025.

These discussions reflect the council's ongoing efforts to address community needs and financial management, with decisions expected to be finalized in the upcoming meetings.