Freedom Fest Planning Underway: Casey’s Freedom Fest is scheduled for July 4-5 with events in Fairview Park. Friday’s schedule includes an antique tractor pull at 10 a.m. and Saturday features a garden tractor pull ending at 3 p.m., followed by food trucks, live music, and a beer and wine tent from 5-9 p.m. Fireworks will conclude the festival at dusk. The total budget is $35,000, with $30,000 allocated for the fireworks display.

Business Grant Program Launches: The city will offer three types of business grants starting July 1, 2025, funded by Business District tax revenue. The program includes Business Improvement grants up to $20,000 with matching funds, Business Incentive grants for new businesses involving electric utility reductions, and Revitalization grants up to $1,000 for large dumpsters needed for improvement projects.

Citywide Cleanup Success: The recent citywide cleanup utilized 12 forty-yard dumpsters, double the normal size, with residents limited to two pickup loads each. Utility Superintendent Shelby Biggs reported strong participation in the annual event.

Cannabis Tax Impact Monitored: The city is tracking revenue impacts from the Martinsville dispensary opening. Initial estimates suggested a $3,000-4,000 monthly decrease in Casey’s cannabis tax revenue, though recent data shows some customers returning due to availability and service differences.

Building Demolition Approved: The council authorized a $20,000 agreement with UTZ and Associates for drawings and specifications for asbestos removal and demolition of the building at 204 South Central. The funding covers design and bid preparation, not the actual demolition work.

Executive Session Actions: Following an executive session for personnel and property matters, the council approved Ordinance 585 amending the city’s employment policy handbook and the agreement with UTZ and Associates for architectural services.