The Princeton City Council’s meeting Monday night was brief but packed with positive updates, as department heads shared news of new hires, ongoing projects, and community events.

Police Chief Chris King shared that a new officer will be joining the department next month.

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click to download audioHe added that while the new hire will need to attend the training academy, online training will begin on December 14. Chief King also noted that two current officers are set to graduate on November 20, and after approximately two months of field training, they will be ready for independent duty.

Public Works Director Chris Pool reported that most of the ditch cleanup with the large excavator is finished, leaving only a few remaining areas to be handled with a backhoe.

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click to download audioPublic Works is also preparing for the citywide leaf pickup.

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click to download audioCouncilman Jim Joiner shared updates from their October 27 Princeton Electric Plant Board meeting, including information about a recent audit and the Prairie State Campus.

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click to download audioJoiner, who also serves on the Airport Board, said grading has been completed and the 10-unit t-hangar is in place, with power lines installed by the Princeton Electric Plant Board on Monday, and blacktopping is set to begin this week. He mentioned that the Airport Board also expects an update on a new runway.

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Animal Control Officer Kevin Lane reminded the community about the rabies clinic happening this Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Caldwell County Animal Shelter

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click to download audioLane also noted that, due to unforeseen events on Sunday, the shelter is currently over capacity.

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And Tourism Commission Director Laci Harper shared a recap of last week’s events.

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click to download audioIn his report, Mayor Brock Thomas said the City received two bids for the building demolition project across from City Hall, which will be discussed at the next meeting.

The Council’s sole action at the meeting was to approve the Princeton Electric Plant Board’s clean audit.

The next regular Princeton City Council meeting is scheduled for Monday, November 17, at 5:00 p.m.