In a recent city council meeting, officials highlighted key community initiatives and achievements, including a free smoke detector program and the recognition of the city's procurement department.

The smoke detector program, held on the third Saturday of each month, offers residents within city limits free battery checks and smoke detector replacements. City officials emphasized the importance of maintaining functional smoke detectors, advising residents to replace any that appear yellow or are over ten years old. Residents can call 417-4400 to schedule a service.

Additionally, the city’s procurement department received the prestigious 2024 Achievement of Excellence in Procurement award, marking the second consecutive year the department has been recognized. This award is given to government procurement offices that meet stringent criteria, including compliance with best practices and maintaining a transparent eProcurement system. The department's success this year was attributed to teamwork in the application process, which involved gathering extensive documentation over five months.

City Manager's report included updates on upcoming projects, such as the demolition of King's Court and the reconstruction of Martin Luther King Parkway, with bids due later this month. The council also noted the progress of the bridal control center project, which is expected to be completed by November, aided by a recent $1 million donation.

The next city council work session is scheduled for October 22, and city offices will remain open for the Columbus Day holiday.