Tracy Bivins appointed to return to City Council seat

Tracy Bivins was welcomed back on the Wayland Council Monday night, as she was appointed to the seat vacated by the death of Gary Smith.

Bivins returns to the council after having to step down in June 2018 because of health issues. She has recovered since and was well enough to seek the mayor’s post in last November’s general election.

She was chosen on a 5-1 vote, with Mayor Tim Bala casting the lone dissenting vote. Runner-up was Ann Tatreau.

City Manager Josh Eggleston said there were seven applicants, with each given seven general questions.

Bivins first was elected the council in 2012 and was re-elected in 2014 and 2016. She resigned at the June 18, 2018, meeting and was succeeded by Joe Kramer.

In other business at Monday night’s meeting, the council:

• Was told by City Clerk LeeAnn Clausen she has been working on lining up entertainment for the city’s concerts in the Park next August. The concerts were canceled in 2020 because of the Covid viral crisis, but Clausen said everything possible will be done this summer to have them resurrected.
• Learned from intern Katie Beemer that on-line meetings on recreation ideas will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 4, and from 9 a.m. to noon Tuesday, Feb. 9. Those who wish to take part may visit the city’s web page or Facebook page.
• Adopted the ordinance amendment to allow required square footage for two-bedroom garden apartments to be reduced from 900 to 760 square feet.
• Was told by Eggleston that the issue of permitting a marijuana business in the city should be taken up again. It has been put on hold because of the viral epidemic forcing on-line meetings.
• Learned from Police Chief Mark Garnsey that domestic violence issues continue as a result of the pandemic. He added that citations have been issued lately for violations of the city’s chicken ordinance.