Just like so many other local events, the date of Wayland’s annual Spring Cleanup and Garage Sale Days remains uncertain because of the Coronavirus crisis.
The City Council, in its second virtual meeting in light of the virus, Thursday evening discussed options for the community events, usually reserved for the first weekend in May. The obvious remedy was to move the dates back, the only question was how far.
Some council members suggested the end of May, but City Manager Josh Eggleston said he doesn’t believe the governor’s stay at home order will be rescinded early enough. He added he’d like to give city Department of Public Works employees more time before they begin pickup duties.
Councilman Rick Mathis agreed, saying, “As long as our guys are safe, I have no problem.”
There may be a problem with having garage sales and cleanup days in July because of the possibilities of stench.
Councilman Tim Rose said he prefers mid to late June, maintaining, “People are doing stuff around their homes right now” (because of the quarantine).
Eggleston said, “I’m not comfortable with pickup in June. It will depend on when the order is lifted.”
Councilwoman Jennifer Antel said, “Whenever it (the crisis) is over, people are going to put their crap out. They want to get rid of their stuff.”
No conclusion was reached, and it was agreed that council will decide in a future meeting after the quarantine is terminated.
Regardless, Eggleston told council members, “We probably will have at least one more meeting in this (Internet) format.”
In other business at Thursday’s meeting, which was rescheduled from Monday night because of a technical problem, the council:
- Noted that a proposed lease agreement with Dr. Bruce Sexton for use of the parking lot to the north of Henika Library and through the alleyway near council chambers remains on hold. Dr. Sexton is expected to craft a proposal.
- Was told by Eggleston that four Department of Public Works employees have been furloughed temporarily because of a lack of work created by COVID-19. Some administrative staff have had hours reduced as well.
- Was told that interviews are continuing in hiring a new director of the Downtown Development Authority.
