Summary of the Manchester City Council Work Session – July 30, 2025
The Manchester City Council work session focused on a powerful presentation by the Meriwether County Youth Leadership Program Class of 2025. The students, sponsored by the Meriwether County Chamber of Commerce, School Board, and 4-H Extension Office, addressed the Council on the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)—trauma, poverty, neglect, and gang violence—on youth in their community.
Each student speaker shared emotional stories, personal experiences, and research highlighting how trauma can lead children toward gang involvement, school dropout, and hopelessness. They emphasized the need for empathy over punishment and advocated for more supportive community services like counseling and youth engagement programs. The council praised the students and presented them with certificates of commendation.
The session also included:
- Housing Authority Appointment: Vicky Waller, a longtime local resident and former Tri-City Housing Authority worker, was introduced as a nominee for the Manchester Housing Authority. She emphasized economic development and transportation as essential for supporting public housing residents.
- Planning and Zoning Appointment: Keenan Bridges was discussed as a candidate for a vacant seat on the Planning and Zoning Board, with the recommendation to appoint him to a full term due to his strong resume and local ties.
- Land Bank Property Transfer: The Council discussed donating six cleared lots on Byron Street to the Land Bank. The intention is to promote affordable housing through strategic partnerships with vetted developers. Council members highlighted the importance of maintaining architectural consistency and maximizing community benefits while also weighing tax revenue implications.
- Engineering Services Update: The City Manager informed the Council that Greg Ashworth, a trusted engineer, is leaving his current firm. The council discussed continuing to work with him through his new firm to maintain continuity on key city projects.
- Senior Services Facility: A soft opening is scheduled for August 4 and a grand opening on August 19. The facility has ties to the historical Rosenwald School, and efforts are underway to uncover and preserve that history.
The session concluded with general updates, acknowledgments, and adjournment.