City of Athens City Council met Sept. 24.
Here is the minutes provided by the council:
Mayor Bob Dowell opened the meeting at 7:30pm and thanked everyone for attending. Office Manager Nicole McCormick called roll. Those in attendance were Mayor Bob Dowell and Aldermen: Larry Buhr, Amy Chernowsky, Butch Nichols, Chris Reichert, and Angella Thompson. Alderman Rachel Lantz and Clerk Cindy McFarland were absent. Persons in the audience included Linda Wasilewski, Tom Croft, Tami Schlueter, Tim Becker, and Michelle Becker. All faced the flag and recited the pledge of Allegiance.
The Mayor said that he and Police Chief Becker talked to the State's Attorney. They hope that these ordinances will help before criminal action is needed. The new ordinances will be on the city website and enforceable on Friday, September 25, 2020. Ordinance 03-2020 would regulate bicycle traffic within the city. This would include no riding on sidewalks within the business district. Violation of the ordinance could result in a $75-$500 fine. Chief Becker gave a brief explanation of how this ordinance will be enforced. Officer Kyle Hopps will give the ordinance to the schools and to kids out riding that may be remote learning. Police can issue ordinance violations based on complaints. Several businesses have asked for the kids to be told that they don't want them riding on their property. Linda Wasilewski asked about bike safety courses, Chief Becker reiterated that Officer Hopps would be talking to the kids at school. Motion made by Alderman Thompson, seconded by Alderman Reichert to adopt Ordinance 03-2020, regulating bicycle traffic within the city of Athens. Ayes: Buhr, Chernowsky, Nichols, Reichert, and Thompson. Motion passed.
Motion made by Alderman Buhr, seconded by Alderman Chernowsky to adopt Ordinance 04-2020, regulating sidewalk and street obstruction and loitering within the city of Athens. Ayes: Buhr, Chernowsky, Nichols, Reichert, and Thompson. Motion passed.
The Mayor thanked everyone and asked for a motion to adjourn. Motion made by Alderman Buhr, seconded by Alderman Chernowsky, to adjourn at 7:52pm.
https://www.athensil.com/documents/75/minutes_sept_24.pdf
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