Milford City Council October 27 Highlights: New Officer, Annexation Approval, and Community Initiatives

Milford City Council met on October 27 to discuss a church annexation and local education and infrastructure initiatives. (Photo courtesy of Milford City Council.)

Milford City Council met on October 27 to discuss a range of topics including a new police department hire, an annexation request for a local church, community safety concerns, and several new business authorizations supporting education and city infrastructure.

New Employee Introduction

Milford Police Chief Cecilia Ashe introduced Jessica Licari as the newest member of the Milford Police Department. Licari, a graduate of the Dover Municipal Police Academy, is currently completing her field training program.

Chief Ashe shared that Licari previously worked in the natural gas industry before following her passion for law enforcement. Council members welcomed Licari and expressed appreciation for her commitment to serving the Milford community.

Public Hearing: Ordinance 2025-17 – Iglesia Pentecostal La Senda Antigua Milford Inc.

Council held a public hearing for Ordinance 2025-17, which involves the annexation of property for Iglesia Pentecostal La Senda Antigua Milford Inc. The property’s annexation would allow the church to connect to city utilities including water, sewer, and electric.

Troy Adams of Mountain Engineering spoke on behalf of the applicant, noting the benefits of bringing the property into city limits. The Planning Commission previously recommended approval of the annexation, and after discussion, council voted to approve the ordinance.

Communications and Correspondence

A council member raised safety concerns regarding electric scooters and bikes operating on Front Street, citing issues with pedestrian safety. The council agreed to review existing bicycle laws and evaluate potential problem areas.

Reminders were shared about trick-or-treating on October 31, with council highlighting popular locations and thanking city staff and volunteers for organizing a successful community parade.

A collection drive is also underway to gather hygiene items for Milford students in need.

New Business: Sponsorship for Buccaneer Education Foundation

Council reviewed a request from the Buccaneer Education Foundation for sponsorship of a table at their upcoming fundraising fair. The cost per table is $800, with proceeds supporting educational initiatives for Milford students.

Following discussion, a motion was made and unanimously approved to sponsor two tables for the event, demonstrating the city’s continued support for local education.

Appointment for Planning Commission Vacancy

Due to the passing of long-time Planning Commission member Marvin Sharp, the city had a vacancy to fill. Council approved the appointment of Harold Sylvester, a local businessman and active community member, to the position.

Authorization for Head Start Program Lease

Rob Pierce presented a memo regarding the renewal of the Head Start program lease at the North Church Street facility. The new lease, with Acelero Learning (replacing Children’s Families and Friends), will run for five years at a rate of $1 per year.

Council voted to approve the lease renewal, ensuring continued early education services for local families.

Public Works: Chlorine Scrubber Purchase

Public Works Director Willis Shafer explained the city’s plan to transition from chlorine tablets to gas chlorine for water treatment at the Kenton’s and 10th Street plants.

The upgrade, initially estimated at $24,000, has risen to $88,000 due to increased equipment costs. Shafer noted that state reviews and engineering assessments have been completed, and the new system will reduce staff safety concerns and improve efficiency. Council authorized the purchase.

KCI Technologies Proposal for Milford Corporate Center

Shafer also presented a proposal from KCI Technologies, Inc. for engineering services to design a new well and water treatment facility at the Milford Corporate Center.

The project, funded through the FY24 capital budget, is expected to take approximately six months to complete. Council approved authorization for the mayor to execute the proposal.