In a strategic move to bolster its municipal operations, Aurora has recently introduced two new non-union full-time positions, reflecting the city’s commitment to addressing critical infrastructure needs and administrative challenges. The decision, made by the city council on December 16, underscores a proactive approach to overcoming recruitment hurdles and ensuring seamless public service delivery.

Aurora Takes Decisive Action to Strengthen City Services and Infrastructure

Introducing the Engineering Inspector Role

Aurora is set to welcome an Engineering Inspector, a newly created position aimed at bridging the gap between contractors and the city’s engineering department. This role will be pivotal in managing daily schedules for inspection-related projects, conducting on-site observations, and ensuring work adheres to established standards. With an annual salary ranging from $62,000 to $66,000, this position offers competitive compensation for candidates with at least two years of relevant experience or a combination of education and training in construction and civil engineering technology. Preference will be given to those certified as qualified erosion and sediment control inspectors.The introduction of this role comes after months of unsuccessful attempts to fill the assistant engineer position. Mayor Ann Womer Benjamin highlighted the challenges faced in recruiting for this role, noting a decline in interest in civil engineering careers and stiff competition from private firms. By creating the Engineering Inspector role, Aurora aims to streamline operations and ensure efficient oversight of ongoing projects.

Enhancing Administrative Support with a Project Coordinator

In addition to the Engineering Inspector, Aurora’s Service Department will soon include a Project Coordinator within its executive administrative assistant role. This enhancement reflects the growing need for robust project management capabilities within the department. The revised position will come with a salary increase, estimated between $56,000 and $60,000 annually, up from the current rate of nearly $55,000.The expanded responsibilities will empower the individual to oversee various initiatives more effectively, ensuring that projects are completed on time and within budget. This adjustment underscores Aurora’s dedication to fostering a more dynamic and responsive administrative framework, capable of meeting the evolving demands of city operations.

Infrastructure Investments: A New Roof and Reliable Power Solutions

To support ongoing development projects, Aurora has contracted Architectural Siding, Trim and Roofing, Inc. (A-STAR) for a $156,860 roofing replacement at a former SeaWorld facility. This building will serve as a maintenance hub during the construction of a new city park, ensuring that essential services remain uninterrupted. Additionally, the city has approved a $48,690 payment to Buckeye Power Sales for a portable diesel generator, crucial for powering city-owned buildings during power outages.Complementing these efforts, Speelman Electric will receive $35,725 to enhance city hall’s electrical service, enabling it to accommodate the new generator. These investments not only bolster the city’s infrastructure but also demonstrate Aurora’s commitment to resilience and preparedness in the face of potential disruptions.

Extending Energy Aggregation and Agricultural Leases

Aurora’s electric aggregation opt-out program for residents has been extended for four years, securing Dynegy’s 4.94 cents/kWh pricing formula through the end of this year. This extension ensures stable energy costs for residents while providing flexibility in energy sourcing.Furthermore, the city has signed a five-year lease with Carlton Farms of Mantua to continue farming 12.3 acres of city-owned property at Harmon Farm. At an annual cost of $1,750, this agreement supports sustainable agricultural practices and preserves the historical significance of the land. The lease, effective from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2029, highlights Aurora’s balance between modernization and heritage preservation.