With Box in place, the council moved through a steady list of business that included employee recognitions, department updates and the return of a familiar figure to the council chambers. Nevada County Economic Development Office Executive Director Mary Godwin, back after time away for cancer treatment, offered a detailed rundown of the city’s economic picture and several ongoing projects. Council members greeted her return warmly.

Godwin reported that the city ended the year with stronger sales tax collections, noting in the official minutes prepared by City Recorder John Miller that “the increase is due to the truck stops in town.” She also updated the council on the Wildcat Road sewer project, which she said has been forwarded to the state for approval. On the water‑system side, she said the industrial park line‑replacement grant had been awarded for $786,000, with bids “coming in at $520,000.” Engineers are expected to meet with city officials on Jan. 28 to determine when work will begin.

Her report also touched on the city’s ongoing effort to clear dilapidated structures. Godwin said 11 houses were torn down last year, and her office is assembling the list for 2026. Oliver added that 110 structures have been removed since he took office, with dozens more still waiting their turn. Godwin also described the new Adopt‑A‑Yard program, which targets 16 properties with recurring maintenance issues and has drawn support from local civic groups.

Rotary Club member and attorney Rowe Stayton expanded on that point, telling the council that club volunteers mowed 12 problem yards last year, while Nevada County Quorum Court member Dennis Pruitt handled between 16 and 20 on his own. Stayton said he is also willing to help residents dealing with squatters by handling eviction filings at no charge. He announced that several civic organizations are working together to build a community garden named for Ron Majors, with 12 to 15 raised beds planned and construction help coming from James Cannon. The garden, he said, will also give students a way to earn the 75 hours of community service required for graduation.

The council recognized Francisco Chavarrio as Employee of the Year, Mandy Marcum as Newcomer of the Year and D.Q. Hopper as the Spirit Award recipient. Members voted to keep their regular meeting schedule at 6:30 p.m. on the third Monday of each month, except in January and February, and approved the 2024 audit without opposition.

Police Chief Ann Jordan told the council her department remains two officers short and introduced Ashley Whitaker as Prescott’s newest detective. In other business, the council declined a request from resident John Henagan to rezone 790 Greenlawn for a barbecue restaurant, though he was advised he could operate a food truck at that address.

The meeting wrapped up with a motion to adjourn from Curry, seconded by Austin.