By DEAN REA/Correspondent/The Herald —Lowell’s City Council spent 33 minutes dealing with routine reports, motions and legal matters Tuesday.
Then after adjourning, someone asked a question, and bedlam erupted.
Councilors Gail Harris and Tim Stratis sprang into action, interrupting one another, naming names, offering suggestions.
Councilor John Myers, seated across the table, joined the free-for-all while unflappable Mayor Don Bennett ignored enforcing Robert’s Rules of Order. City Administrator Jeremy Caudle quickly consulted city ordinances to check a legal technicality.
Meanwhile, Fire Chief Lon Dragt, who was seated in the spectator section at Maggie Oswald Library, said he could name a name or two, and Public Works Director Max Baker said council members can count on him for suggestions.
The question: Who will replace Sam Dragt, who served her final meeting as a councilor Tuesday night? She must step down because she has been selected to replace Joyce Donnell as the city clerk.
Names may have been recorded unofficially, but those present were quick to agree that they welcome the help of local residents in finding someone to occupy the now vacant council seat.
Dragt, who everyone calls Sam, commented later, “I was raised to be a helper and to participate in my community. I have previously been involved with the American Legion, the Lions and various school groups. Not to mention the fire department (where her husband is chief).
“I feel that my last (almost) two and a half years as a city councilor has been a great learning experience and my great honor. My transition to being part of Lowell as an employee is bittersweet.
“I loved being part of the process and helping work toward bringing the vision Lowell’s citizens have closer to fruition. As the city clerk, I have some big shoes to fill, and I hope that I can learn to be as effective and efficient as Joyce.”
During the official portion of the meeting, councilors extended the Utility Assistance Program, which provides a 25 percent reduction in water and sewer charges for customers who find it difficult to pay their bills. Four customers participated during the past year. Councilors requested that the program receive wider publicity.
The season’s first “Movie in the Park” showing Friday night drew 103 spectators, several from out of town, Baker reported. Other movie showings at the Paul Fisher park adjacent to City Hill are scheduled at dark on Aug. 13 and on Sept. 17.
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