The Elsmere City Council held a first reading of two ordinances that amend citywide loan program amounts and the city’s code of ethics at their Aug. 12 meeting.
The first ordinance raises the city loan cap for residents from $10,000 to $15,000, which is the loan cap for businesses operating in the city. The loan amount for businesses remains unchanged.
The second amends chapter 39 of Elsmere’s code of ethics to mandate that all elected officials must not miss more than one-third of caucus, council and special meetings. Officials must submit written documentation to justify their absence.
The first readings followed discussions on the loan amounts and attendance requirements at the council’s Aug. 5 caucus meeting. However, the need to update the code of ethics regarding meeting attendance was a long-time consideration for the council. It can be traced back to 2024, when criticisms against former council member Serena Owen surfaced due to her repeated absence from meetings.
The ordinances will take effect with their second reading at September’s council meeting.