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He did introduce an amendment, which the council approved, to keep from adding another full-time position to the economic development office.
The budget will still provide for an additional 20 hours a week in that department.
Councilman David Glenn said he agrees the economy does not allow for an additional position, but Councilman John Correri Jr. said he is still ambivalent about keeping the status quo there.
Smith and Councilwoman Barbara Wagner voted against the amendment.
Smith noted it is a "double-edged sword," with the need still there for the city to continue enhancing its economic development efforts.
Wagner said she is very much in favor of having a full-time position, as it would greatly enhance the work of the economic development department.
Martin said in general he is "very pleased" with the 2013 budget, as it cuts the tax rate and provides the same services to all citizens.
He said it received very limited modification during the two spring work sessions, and is the end result of Mayor Wayne Dougherty's push to reduce spending and the "hard work" of department heads.
Council reports
Council president Randy Craig was acting as mayor on behalf of Wayne Dougherty, who Craig explained was absent for "personal reasons" that were not serious or health-related.
Public works director Larry Parks said the much-contested work on Lewis Lane will be starting soon, in early July.
Police chief Teresa Walter noted Independence Day festivities are coming up, with the carnival happening June 26 and parade on July 1.
The chief also got a round of applause for being named Person of the Year by the city's Chamber of Commerce.
Councilman Joe Smith gave a "shout-out" to fathers, in recognition of Father's Day, and wished everyone "happy Pride," in reference to June being designated Gay Pride Month.
Councilwoman Barbara Wagner and Councilman David Glenn recalled the Homes for Our Troops construction project, which built a home last weekend for Army Staff Sgt. Kelly Keck.
Wagner said it was "amazing" to see his strength and have the community recognize his sacrifice.
Glenn said the ceremony Friday reinforced that the true heroes are the men and women of the armed forces.
"The war will never end for Kelly Keck because of the injuries he incurred fighting for us," Glenn said.
Martin wished everyone a happy July 4, and talked about meeting Apollo 15 astronaut Al Worden at the Vandiver Inn.
"I hope America returns to its greatness and looks to the sky again," Martin said, adding he was sad to think children spent 40 or 50 years wanting to be an astronaut, but now have very little chance of going into space.
Fence saga
A request by Joseph Fiocci to allow a picket fence at 469 Commerce St. to stay in place was rejected by the council, with council members noting the fence was built after approval for it was denied.
An upset Fiocci demanded a re-vote, which Craig denied. Several residents also spoke in support of Fiocci and said the improvements have greatly helped the community.
