The Monroe County Council convened on April 22, 2025, to address several key agenda items, including discussions on vote centers, appointments to boards, and funding requests from the planning department.

The meeting began with a focus on the upcoming vote center plan. Council members sought clarification on the council's role in relation to the election board's decisions. Legal counsel provided insights, indicating that while the council could express support for the vote center plan, it would ultimately be the election board that determines the specifics, such as the number of vote centers. The council was informed that a resolution supporting the plan was not required to be passed before the plan's adoption, but it should be submitted alongside it. The next hearing on this matter is scheduled for May 19.

Following this discussion, the council took a brief recess to allow staff a break before continuing with the agenda. Upon reconvening, the council moved to item number 10, which involved the appointment of Andre Butler to the opioid settlement application review board for a two-year term. The appointment was met with enthusiasm, particularly due to Butler's previous leadership role within the council. A roll call vote resulted in the appointment passing with a 6 to 1 majority.

The meeting proceeded to item number 11, where the planning department requested an additional appropriation of $15,000 for general planning services. Jackie Jelen from the planning department presented the request, outlining its purpose and anticipated impact. The council engaged in discussions regarding the funding, with further details expected to follow in subsequent meetings.

Overall, the council's discussions highlighted important procedural matters regarding election planning and community health initiatives, setting the stage for continued engagement in the coming weeks. The next council meeting is scheduled for May 13, where further discussions on the vote center plan and other agenda items are anticipated.