Sewer project meeting set with engineer, USDA officials

The Gallatin Board of Aldermen were provided an update by City Administrator Jason Helton on the city’s sewer project. A meeting is scheduled this week with USDA officials, the project engineer, city attorney, and grant administrator.

Mr. Helton also report on rising wholesale electricity costs. A rate study will be performed in order to determine whether a rate increase may be necessary.

The city pool may be forced to reduce operating hours this summer due to only four lifeguard positions being filled.

Only 24 responses have been received expressing interest in a proposed wireless Internet system for the city. Additional information will be sought before a decision is made.

Chief of Police Jim Wycoff reported the department received a grant for increased seat belt and traffic enforcement activities. The grant will provide overtime compensation for officers.

The board was updated on various upcoming community programs and presentations by the department. Chief Wycoff also reported on coordinating a safe schools meeting recently with school district officials and area law enforcement agencies.

A memo was presented on vehicle replacement options for the police department. Four auto dealerships responded to a request for bids. Following discussion, the board tabled the topic until the next meeting in order to gain additional information.

Regarding accounts payable, Gene Schweizer made a motion to remove the state sales tax from the accounts payable because of no corresponding revenue account. The motion failed for lack of a second.

Alderman Schweizer stated for the record that he voted against the accounts payable because he feels that payments should be made from accounts that generate the expense.

Bills in the amount of $163,774.21 were approved for payment.

During old business, alderman Bob Snidow inquired about the follow-up activities of a previous animal control issue.

In new business, R. Scott Stephens presented the draft version of the Fiscal Year 2000 audit for the city. Board discussion followed. Mr. Stephens indicated his willingness to return to a future meeting in order to answer further questions.

During comments by aldermen, Bob Snidow inquired about a city surplus property sale anticipated for this summer which will likely include used utility poles. Mr. Snidow also discussed the fire district proposal that will be on the August ballot.

Shonna Morrison reported the Gallatin Area Revitalization Alliance is sponsoring a city-wide litter clean-up on Saturday, May 5, starting at 8 a.m. from Dockery Park. Everyone is invited to participate.

Mayor Davis reported he had been contacted by a resident unable to receive her newspaper service due to vehicles parked on the square after business hours.

Mayor Davis also discussed the proper procedure for board members to contact the city attorney and city auditor, due to the fees charged by these professionals.

During public comment, Thelma Assel requested assistance with a ditch drainage problem at 502 West Van Buren.

Bob and Margaret Townsend inquired about the procedure of removing deer carcasses struck by vehicles in front of their home at 1602 S. Main (south Highway 13).

The above are the unapproved minutes of the regular meeting of the Gallatin Board of Aldermen held on April 23 at city hall. Present were Mayor L.B. Davis, aldermen Bob Snidow, Norma Griffin, Shonna Morrison, Gene Schweizer and City Administrator Jason Helton.

Guests in attendance at the April 23 meeting were Thelma Assel, Bob and Margaret Townsend, and Boy Scouts from Troop 67 observing the meeting for their Citizenship in the Community Merit Badge with Mike Arnold, Merit Badge Counselor.