Frankfort’s Board of Public Works approved multiple fee waivers, refunds, and acknowledged a firefighter’s resignation during its July 27 meeting, with the departure of a longtime lieutenant standing out as the most significant development.
Fire Department Resignation
The board formally accepted the resignation of Lt. Enis Becirevic who will leave the Frankfort Fire Department in early August after seven years of service. Fire Chief Matt Stidham said Becirevic’s final shift will end the morning of Aug. 7. “Working with the Frankfort Fire Department has been rewarding in many ways,” Becirevic wrote in his resignation letter. “It has been a true privilege to serve the community of Frankfort for the last seven years.”
Mayor Judy Sheets acknowledged the loss, saying, “It’s always difficult when we lose one of our firefighters and someone that has stepped up and has done so well for the past seven years, but we wish him the best.” Stidham said the department will begin a hiring process within about 30 days to address the vacancy and any additional staffing needs. He also noted Becirevic’s role as pension secretary will need to be filled, likely by board appointment.
Permit Fee Waivers and Projects
Several permit fee waivers were approved, primarily tied to city or grant-funded projects. The board waived:
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A $35 fee for concrete work at Prairie Creek Park tied to a redevelopment commission project.
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A $200 demolition permit fee for the Frankfort Railroad Roundhouse, part of a cleanup effort supported by a READI grant.
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A $300 fee for soil borings related to the Mash Road project.
During discussion of the roundhouse demolition, officials emphasized the importance of oversight. “I just think it’d be a great follow-up to be sure that we have eyes on that so that we know how that’s following up,” one board member said, requesting updates from building services. Building Services Director Rob Bogue said inspections would follow standard procedures and staff would work to obtain a project schedule. Bogue also provided an update on a long-standing downtown property concern, noting progress toward redevelopment. “We actually now have two interested parties. We have one for sure offer on the table and are expecting another one by the end of the week,” he said.
Refunds and Park Department Items
The board approved two refunds recommended by the parks department, both tied to issues outside renters’ control. One refund was issued to Justine Lightfoot after a class reunion at the Encompass Center was canceled due to low attendance. Officials said the group lacked funds and requested the fee be waived. A second refund of $60 was approved for Brady Martin after a shelter reservation conflict at a city park. Another group had already occupied the reserved shelter when Martin arrived. “It sounds like the circumstances were outside of their control,” one official said during discussion, supporting the refund.
The board also approved a “Coach Kids Day” event at the Sapphire Bay pool for Aug. 15–16. The organization will track attendance and be invoiced afterward.
Other Business
The board approved a conflict-of-interest disclosure for firefighter Mitchell Laughner, who also performs graphics work for the city. Members also approved meeting minutes and claims without discussion. No public comments were made. The meeting adjourned after routine departmental reports, with no additional business brought before the board.