On April 15, the Monroe Common Council:

●   Heard a proclamation from Mayor Louis Armstrong declaring April 26 as Arbor Day within the city.

●   Approved an agreement with Suez Water Technologies for hospital water tower maintenance. 

●   Heard an appearance by the public from local business owner Kristi Smith, who spoke in favor of a pocket park along the downtown Square.

●   Awarded a contract to Precision Drive and Control for more than $32,000 to install an outdoor warning system for the city.

●   Heard Marissa Vosberg express gratitude for time spent in her first year as a youth in government representative.

●   Authorized a contract for 2019 water main and sanitary sewer improvements with G-Pro Excavating LLC of Montfort for a project cost of more than $1.8 million. 

●   Received advice and parting words from former alderman Jeff Newcomer, who did not seek reelection this year. Newcomer said he doesn’t doubt council members are serving the city to do what is best, and said “putting the city before politics should be what unites us.” He encouraged everyone to continue to “operate with good humor” and that “tough decisions will have to be made, don’t be afraid to make them.”

On April 16, the Monroe Common Council:

●   Heard remarks from the five outgoing council members. Alderman Rob Schilt thanked city staff, fellow council members and his family for support. Newcomer said the last five years have been special and joined others in wishing new members luck in their time as aldermen. Alderman Ron Marsh thanked the city and the public and told incoming members to “do your homework.” Chris Beer also expressed gratitude to city staff and council members, saying the time on council will be missed but a break was necessary.

●   Installed Brooke Bauman as council president.

●   Appointed council members to standing committees and special boards, commissions and offices. 

●   Retained the Monroe Times as the city’s official newspaper.

●   Heard presentations from City Attorney Dan Bartholf on open meetings and public records law and an administrator report from City Administrator Phil Rath, who encouraged council members to ask questions before discussion at meetings to ensure facts and details are correctly understood.