GREEN COVE SPRINGS – Christmas trees have been ground into wood chips, and the city’s ornaments have been put back in storage, but the spirit of the holidays was rekindled during Tuesday night’s City Council meeting when volunteers were recognized with resolutions.

The council honored Core Volunteers representing the Elks Club (Santa’s Workshop), Green Cove Springs Business League (Christmas Parade), Jingle Bell Fun Run (Village Improvement Association) and Michael and James Branning (Parade of Trees).

The Elk’s Club gave more than 400 gifts to children and teens. The Jingle Bell Run that kicked off the Christmas Parade attracted 396 runners, followed by a record 80-plus parade entries.

The Parade of Trees attracted tens of thousands of visitors to the city's heart. The Branning brothers placed artificial trees purchased by nonprofits, organizations, individuals and groups more than a month in advance. The groups decorated trees before the month-long display, and a panel selected the best-decorated tree.

“The city would not look like it would,” said GCS Executive Assistant Kimberly Thomas. “The city would not enjoy the way it does if it weren't for this core group right here. So, from my heart, I appreciate you more than you know.”

The council also proclaimed a pair of School Resource Officers – Renay Henderson (Charles E. Bennett Elementary) and Timothy Reichenbach (Green Cove Springs Junior High) as part of School Resource Officer Appreciation Day.

In other business:

• The council approved making a $175,000 payment for a $2,171,400 bill to make water treatment plant improvements at Magnolia Point.

• Agreed to spend $97,027.96 to purchase a 200 KW generator and a 2500-amp transfer switch for the City Hall Generator Upgrade Project from the Yanmar-Mastry’s $97,027.96 utilizing the Florida Sheriff’s Association Cooperative Purchasing Program.

• Agreed to spend $97,027.96 for a deep clean of the public pool at Spring Park.

• Agreed to pay Kirby Development $16,101.73 to Kirby Development for improvements to the Julia Street Stormwater Improvement Project.

• Agreed to unfreeze the Utility Plant Operator Trainee position for the rest of the year.

The City Council meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. at City Hall.