Meeting Summary and Briefs: Litchfield City Council for December 18, 2025

Litchfield City Council Meeting | December 18, 2025

The Litchfield City Council met on Thursday, December 18, 2025, for its final meeting of the year. This session marked the first meeting presided over by Mayor Jake Fleming. The meeting focused heavily on infrastructure, with a major presentation regarding the water treatment plant and the approval of the annual tax levy.

Mayor Fleming used his city report to thank city employees for their dedication throughout the year and wished the council and public a Merry Christmas. The Council also handled routine financial approvals and a property lease matter before entering an executive session to discuss the setting of a price for the sale or lease of public property.

News Briefs:

Lake Lease Renewed for Mortgage Purposes
The Council voted unanimously to approve an ordinance for a lease agreement between the City of Litchfield and residents James Chambers and Emily Brauer for the property at 118 Westlake Trail. The agreement is a standard 60-year lease renewal required by the lender for mortgage purposes. Officials noted there are no changes to the lease terms, describing the action as a technicality to assist the residents with their financing.

Minutes and Expenses Approved
The board unanimously approved the minutes from the December 4, 2025, regular meeting following a motion by Alderperson Dwayne Gerl and a second by Alderperson Marilyn Sisson. Additionally, a motion to approve the expenditure report and payroll for the current period was passed following a motion by Alderperson Robbin Huffman and a second by Alderperson Gerl.

Mayor Thanks Staff in First Meeting
In his first official meeting as Mayor, Jake Fleming expressed gratitude to the City Council and staff. “They go above and beyond. They’re our biggest asset,” Fleming said regarding the city employees. He noted the recent staff Christmas party and acknowledged those employees who would be working through the holiday.