Amber George

The Governing Body held a public work session to discuss an increase to water rates. Expenses were reviewed, and various increase scenarios were discussed. A decision was reached to implement an increase of $3 for each base level and $0.50 for each tier to cover all expenses and fund future maintenance accounts. No penalties will be increased at this time.

The meeting included a review of the Treasurer's report, showing an account balance of $5,001,917.11 as of the meeting date, with expenses totaling $155,452.08 for the previous period. Old business covered discussions from the Annual Rural Fire Convention, including evacuation concerns. Under new business, planning was discussed for upcoming events such as the annual rural banquet, the GFD Christmas party and toy delivery, and the DFD adult party and Shop With a Cop event. The Riverton mid-winter fire school was also noted. Furthermore, updates were provided on DFD staffing changes and the use of their new meeting building.

The Governing Body Meeting covered several committee reports, including an update from the Landfill Board regarding a CDL agreement, employee status, and relocation plans for future board meetings due to HVAC system changes at the library. The Public Works Department reported on meter equipment changes and upcoming training for personnel. A significant decision in continuing business was the approval of an agreement with Treto Construction LLC for the pathway project, involving concrete replacement on roads and in the town park, with a substantial completion date of July 17, 2026. New business included the decision to maintain the existing committee memberships for 2026 and the approval of Resolution 2026-471, which established the 2026 mileage rate at 72.5 cents per IRS guidelines. An executive session was held for personnel reasons, resulting in a motion to increase a staff member's wage by 10%. A future work session was scheduled to discuss raising water rates.

Key discussions during the meeting included committee reports covering the Parks and Entertainment segment (Cookies with Santa event and progress on the dog park) and Landfill Board updates, noting successful audit results despite minor issues and investigation into acquiring a cardboard bailer. The Public Works Department reported on ongoing maintenance, including a coolant leak on the generator and issues with a meter programming box. A significant portion of the meeting involved a detailed presentation and discussion regarding an oil and gas lease offer from Petro-Sentinel, LLC, for the Fox Addition, covering potential drilling depths, environmental concerns related to water protection, projected revenue via bonuses and royalties, and the need for future legal review. Finally, the Council reviewed and approved the third draft of the employee license and training policy and held an executive session to discuss a personnel matter.

The Governing Body Meeting included the approval of bills and claims for the current date. Committee reports noted the next Joint Powers Board meeting is scheduled for January 7, 2026, and the Landfill Board meeting is this Thursday. The Public Works Department report detailed the completion of 2025 State Engineer's office reports, issues with radio programming, and findings regarding malfunctioning equipment at Well 7, including plans for VFD replacement and electrical relocation quotes, as well as PLC assessment. New park amenities, including signs, trash cans, and dog waste stations, are installed at the dog park. In continuing business, the Council decided to schedule a future work session to discuss the Oil and Gas Lease Offer received from Baseline Minerals, Inc. New business involved a discussion regarding future upgrades to the water handheld device, noting the current device is aging out and exploring options such as using a tablet on the web, which may involve an annual fee but could save on labor costs.