• The council approved the first reading of an ordinance establishing a city redevelopment department and 5-member redevelopment commission. The commission will include three residents appointed by Mayor Jack Woods and two members appointed by the city council. The aim of the commission is to improve the city’s economic future by attracting new business and improving the face of the town.

• Councilman Dr. David Steele said trees for the Harrison Street tree project would be planted later this month. The city raised $29,500 toward the planting of 110 trees along Harrison Street. The city still needs $3,500 to purchase all 110 trees.

• Mayor Woods said the city will continue to operate on a four-day work week with City Hall closing on Fridays but open Monday through Thursday until 6 p.m. The effort is a cost-saving effort designed to cut back on heating and cooling expenses. Clerk-treasurer Jan Lynch said it’s too soon to see if the measure has saved the city money. In order to further gauge the effectiveness of the shortened week, Woods said the new hours will continue into April.

• Woods said that only bagged leaves will be picked up by the street department.

• Trick or Treat hours on Oct. 31 will be between 7 and 9 p.m. A safe Halloween party will be held from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Oct. 31 at Harrison Square.

• City offices will be closed Monday, Oct. 13, in observance of Columbus Day.