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City Council Meeting
Published: Jun 22, 2026
Bainbridge Auditor Clarifies Tax Budget Process and Ordinance Amendments
Auditor Blackmore explained the tax budget process for 2027, which involves detailed preparation of expected revenues and expenses. She clarified that the tax budget requires verbal council approval after a public hearing, distinct from the tax rate legislation which is an ordinance accepting county-set rates. An amended ordinance was discussed, with a rate and number change from the original, and a potential for further amendment before the third reading due to new reporting systems causing some uncertainty in figures [cite: 188-255].
Bainbridge Council Proposes Revisions to Junk and Rubbish Ordinance
Council reviewed proposed changes to the junk and rubbish ordinance, aiming to clarify definitions and improve enforcement. Key changes include refining the definition of 'junk' with specific examples, updating the visibility standard to apply to surrounding property rather than just adjoining public property, and adjusting fence/barrier height from 10 to 8 feet to match city ordinances. The appeals process was removed, and primary enforcement shifted to the city police with city engineering in a support role. The law director was asked to compile the amendments and new sections for preparation at the next meeting [cite: 1789-1866].
Bainbridge Mayor Reports on Sidewalks, Traffic Lights, Water Quality, and Parking
Mayor Markward provided an update on city projects, mentioning progress on the Fox Road sidewalk, a delay in the Bonny Woods traffic light due to no bidders (re-bid scheduled), and a notice in upcoming water bills regarding THMs (Trihalomethanes) due to recent reservoir filling. He also noted the addition of a handicap parking spot in the 100 block of North Washington Street [cite: 56-95].
Bainbridge City Undergoing Extensive Technology Audit, Requiring Supplemental Appropriations
The city is undergoing a comprehensive technology audit by a third-party IT firm, Sonnet. This audit includes a city-wide inventory to ensure compliance with state requirements, such as Microsoft 365 adoption and mandatory cybersecurity training for all employees. The services provided by Sonnet, including net admin services and disaster recovery planning, are expected to require supplemental appropriations due to their cost. New computers and monitors have also been necessary for some staff [cite: 256-307].
Bainbridge City Council Considers 30-Year Solar Lease for City Property
The council discussed a solar lease agreement for 38 acres of city-owned property. The company, Butterfly Meadows, LLC, intends to lease the land for a solar farm. The lease term is potentially 30 years, with options for extensions, and the city would receive income from the lease. Concerns were raised about the long-term commitment, lack of 'outs' for the city, and the process for returning the land to its original condition. The law director clarified that the company is required by state statute to restore the land, and legal action could be taken if the company breaches the lease terms. A motion was made to have the law director prepare an ordinance authorizing the mayor to lease the property [cite: 1205-1628].
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