We began the council meeting on a fun note. About a dozen third- and fourth-grade students and their families were in council chambers to be recognized for their fire-prevention artwork. I think each councilperson enjoyed watching the excitement on the kids’ faces.

Tonight was the meeting where we recognized the outgoing council members: Janet D’Antonio, Joe Hickin, and Sara Drew. Each councilmember said something nice about the departing individuals. It was a little odd for Sara, because she’s obviously not going anywhere.

Sara also gave her “State of the City” address. It was refreshing to me that she did not use the opportunity to make political statements, and what she said was true. If you can’t tell, I’m drawing a contrast to the past two State of the City addresses.

A few things stood out to me:

• Sara expects groundbreaking on the new hospital in the third quarter this year.
• She instructed the finance department to draft a budget that includes, among other things, a “significant increase” in roads funding.
• She is looking for ways to lease or sell city space that is not being occupied.

I know it’s early, but I like Sara’s policies as mayor, more than as a councilwoman — or even as candidate for mayor.

It was probably an hour before city council began its usual business. Most notably, we delayed a vote on the changes to the building code. I requested this delay so that I can examine a “redline” copy of the new ordinance, compared to the old. We were not provided with this tool, so it was hard to tell what changes we were actually voting on.

Each of the new personnel were approved unanimously. They are all qualified, and I’m confident the mayor has chosen good people in their new positions.

City council will meet against with committees on January 23.