Opening with Proclamations

Mayor Jodi Miller will begin the meeting with three official proclamations:

• National Travel and Tourism Week (May 4–10)

• United Way’s 75th Anniversary Day (May 5)

• World Migratory Bird Day (May 10)

While these acknowledgments celebrate important causes, the focus of the evening is likely to shift quickly to a series of unresolved and divisive matters.

Planning Commission Controversy Back on the Agenda

The council is once again demanding an explanation for Mayor Miller’s recent removal of Joshua Atkinson from the city’s Planning Commission—an action taken shortly after Atkinson ran against the mayor in the April election. He was replaced with Dustin Wilkinson, a move that has triggered strong backlash from both the public and several council members.

Concerns have emerged regarding Wilkinson’s background, which includes a documented history of drug-related convictions, alcohol abuse, and more recently, domestic violence charges. The mayor's judgment in recommending Wilkinson, despite this record, will be scrutinized publicly once again.

A vote to rescind Wilkinson’s appointment is expected. A previous attempt failed due to support for the mayor's choice by Aldermen Sellers, Klemm, Parker, and Shadle—a decision that many in the community found troubling.

Alcohol Permit for West Avenue Plaza

Also on the agenda is a final vote on whether the strip mall on West Avenue—home to Family Dollar and the former JoAnn Fabrics—should receive a special use permit to sell and serve alcohol. The proposal has drawn a mixed response, with some supporting economic growth and others raising concerns about potential public safety impacts.

Long-Delayed City Manager Review

Another major issue the council is expected to confront is the overdue Annual Performance Review for City Manager Rob Boyer. This review, which is required by his contract, serves as a key tool for setting goals and evaluating his leadership. Despite this, Mayor Miller has reportedly failed to perform the review throughout her tenure.

Efforts to hold an executive session to address the matter were blocked at the last meeting by the same four alderpersons who supported Wilkinson’s appointment. Many Freeport residents now see this review as essential to restoring accountability in city management.

Ongoing Silence on Union Contract

One glaring omission from the agenda is any discussion of the ongoing union negotiations with AFSCME, which represents many of the city’s frontline workers. Without a signed contract, the possibility of a strike remains on the table, creating significant uncertainty for Freeport’s future operations and services.

Residency Ordinance: Enforcement Still in Question

Although the council recently upheld the residency requirement for high-ranking city officials, enforcement remains unclear. The city attorney outlined specific consequences for violations, but questions persist regarding the status of several individuals—including the police chief and at least four other senior staff members—who may not meet the requirement. The community continues to call for consistent enforcement of the city’s ordinances.

Leadership Questions in Economic Development

Finally, residents are awaiting clarity on the status of Wayne Duckmann, Director of Community and Economic Development. Earlier this year, a recruiting firm announced that it would begin the search for his replacement on April 1, but as of now, no job opening has been posted on the city’s official website. The lack of transparency has fueled speculation and frustration.

Public Comment: Your Chance to Be Heard

The public has the opportunity to speak directly to the mayor, council, and city staff during the Public Comment sections at both the beginning and end of the meeting. Residents are strongly encouraged to attend, stay informed, and make their voices heard.

This meeting is more than routine business—it's a test of transparency, leadership, and commitment to the people of Freeport.