07:35Fire Chief Dan Rushlo was present to address the council with Scribner’s request. The leave of absence was granted unanimously. Rushlo also updated the council on recent fire department activities, noting that the department had been addressing both grass and structure fires. These updates underscore ongoing concerns about fire safety in the region, particularly given the dry weather conditions.

18:09In other personnel matters, the council approved the hiring of Tyler Hisel for the public works department at a rate of $24 per hour, despite the higher hourly wage. The hiring committee expressed confidence in Hisel’s qualifications, setting his start date for May 27th. This decision comes as part of a broader strategy to effectively manage and maintain city infrastructure. Additionally, the council approved hiring Max Barklay at $14 an hour to support operations before Memorial Weekend, reflecting optimism about the summer crew amid ongoing staffing adjustments.

Public works updates were detailed with progress on street projects, including the replacement of old cement in an alleyway and the removal of light bases on First Avenue. There were also discussions about pothole repairs, with the council choosing a higher quote of $10,750 from Bob Marshick Enterprise over a lower bid.

11:04The council addressed various planning and zoning matters, approving a six-month temporary permit for a greenhouse structure and adding Joe Stangle to the planning and zoning committee. In a notable community initiative, the Vernig and Leblah families proposed donating a shelter for golfers to protect against inclement weather on the new nine holes. The council discussed the shelter’s placement along with potential additions of porta-potties and drinking water to enhance the facility.

27:10An interesting development emerged with the proposal to hold a public hearing on June 9th regarding a chicken ordinance. The council expressed a desire to finalize the ordinance efficiently. This hearing aims to streamline discussions and implement the ordinance without prolonged delays.

13:45The council also approved a resolution establishing penalties for improper garbage disposal. This decision aligns with other city ordinances.

Routine approvals were made for liquor license renewals for local establishments. Similarly, an exempt permit for St. Joseph’s Church annual bazaar was granted.

Financial updates included the approval of the April claims report and the treasurer’s report, which showed a balance of over $3 million. The council also agreed to a payout of PTO and an old sick bank for an employee named Zach, totaling approximately $15,793.85, highlighting the council’s adherence to employee compensation commitments.

31:05In a lighter note, the meeting concluded with announcements of winners for Freedom Fest tickets, providing a community engagement element to the proceedings. The meeting was adjourned at 7:33 p.m., with the next council meeting scheduled for May 27th, taking into account the Memorial Day holiday.