Colin Watts

The council approved a renewal liquor license for Casey's General Store. Two resolutions were passed: the first approved the IAMU Operator Qualification Plan Revision 1.1 for the Municipal Gas Department, and the second authorized monthly transfers for sewer bond payments. The council reviewed a presentation on a manhole rehabilitation process and requested further identification of sites needing repair. Additionally, the council granted sewer forgiveness for a rental property due to a faulty toilet float valve, and discussed a citizen complaint regarding the usage of city equipment by a gas department employee.

The council evaluated and approved health insurance renewal plans for city employees after comparing multiple quotes. Operational decisions included the purchase of a new tractor and mower for maintenance of city property, as well as the emergency acquisition of a refurbished soft starter for the wastewater treatment plant to maintain aeration operations. Additionally, the council discussed legal options for addressing a hazardous building, reviewed a citizen petition for improved street lighting, and received updates regarding upcoming sewer repair projects.

The council approved liquor licenses for Yolandas Tacos Shop LLC and Casey's Marketing Company, as well as a tax abatement application for a resident. The council discussed a downed tree limb on city property at 400 W. Madison Street and approved the removal of the dead limb from the affected yard. Additionally, updates were provided regarding the roof replacement at the sewer plant blower building and the status of paperwork for the Bonham Trail project.

The City Council discussed insurance policy renewals and potential cost-saving measures for the city's insurance coverage. The Council also reviewed a proposal regarding the potential purchase and management of Memorial Hall and conducted a public hearing for the fiscal year 2025 budget. Resolutions were passed to adopt the annual budget for fiscal year 2025 and to set a public hearing for the fiscal year 2024 budget amendment. Additionally, the Council approved a wage increase for the Deputy Clerk, authorized the purchase of a new effluent sampler for the Sewer Department, and tabled a discussion regarding cost-sharing for sidewalk repairs. Other topics included potential infrastructure projects such as EV charger installations and traffic safety improvements.

The City Council met to review and approve a quote from Bushong Construction for $34,400 to replace concrete approaches at the fire station. Additionally, the Council discussed a proposal to allocate ARPA funds for the repair of municipal manholes, with a request for photographic evidence and cost estimates to be presented for future consideration.