The Mount Pleasant City Council met in regular session Wednesday night and moved through a series of updates and approvals affecting city operations and future planning.
Council members read for the second time an ordinance to prohibit panhandling in certain areas within city limits, noting concern over professional panhandlers who come from outside the community and intimidate or take advantage of residents. Officials emphasized that the city is not targeting people in genuine need but wants to better address individuals who are harassing citizens.
The council also approved the second reading of updates to the hazardous materials response charge ordinance. Beginning in January, the city will adopt an annual resolution reflecting the fee schedule set by the state board, ensuring consistency in how hazardous materials response costs are handled. Officials noted this ordinance allows the city to bill when the fire department must respond to any call regarding hazardous materials.
The council approved the City’s five-year Capital Improvement Plan with the FAA, a requirement for securing federal funding for airport projects. The Airport Advisory Committee worked alongside the city’s engineering firm to develop the list of proposed improvements.
In personnel matters, the council approved the hiring of Amber Thorne as the new Administrative Assistant in the City Clerk’s office.
Public Works Department received approval to purchase a 2009 dump truck, which will be used to assist with snow removal this winter.
The council approved a resolution to purchase real estate at 405 E Madison Street from the Mount Pleasant Community School District. The move follows the school board’s narrow vote to sell the property to the City, and officials said they expect to close on the property toward the end of January 2026.
The council also moved forward with hiring an engineer to evaluate needed repairs at the property they will obtain from the school district. Mayor Brimhall noted that the City is still discussing the options of how they plan to use the building. Thomas McInerney, the engineer selected, is familiar with the city’s needs, having worked on the Mount Pleasant Park Shop and previously collaborated with the school district on various projects.
The meeting concluded with no public comments during the forum. The City Council will meet again Tuesday, December 23rd at 5:30pm.