City alderman put more bite in collecting unpaid utility bills

The Gallatin Board of Aldermen increased the penalty on unpaid utility bills by five percent during their regular meeting held Monday, Feb. 25. Currently the penalty is five percent on gas, electric and water.

City Administrator Kathy Arnold told the board that during the month of February the city sent over 140 reminders to customers who had not paid their utility bill, which takes a lot of time and money for postage.

Mrs. Arnold stated that in reviewing analysis of electric rate study that a rate increase is being recommended. She suggested the council increase the utility penalty to 10% and not pass on an electric rate increase at this time. She will have ordinance regarding the penalty for approval at the next meeting.

City Administrator Arnold submitted to the mayor and board of aldermen copies of bank statements from January 1, 2001, and Jan. 1, 2002. During the year the city accounts had an increase of $107,708.47. Copies of the general ledger for the month of January 2002 were submitted with the city administrator explaining the way the accounting system does posting of revenues.

Andy Macias, Snyder & Associates, Inc., met with the mayor and board of aldermen as requested to discuss inspection on the upcoming sewer project. Mr. Macias stated that he can appreciate the city looking at saving money in any way, but a good inspector can save the city money in the long run. Mr. Macias stated that he was required to sign certificates stating that the plans and inspections conform with regulations.

Discussion was held on easements that are being obtained. All easements must be signed prior to bidding of the project.

Some of the board members and members of the Gallatin Area Animal Welfare Alliance met at the dog pound prior to the city council meeting. Chief Wycoff presented Mayor Davis a key to the new dog kennels.

Chief Wycoff stated there is a person interested in grooming and socializing the dogs and this would be done at no cost. He stated that additional donations are still needed to finish paying for the building.

Chief Wycoff reported that he had picked up 23 computers and computer supplies that were donated by American Airlines for the teen center and police department use.

Chief Wycoff also reported on a person that was missing over the weekend and how much he appreciated the wonderful turnout of people to help find the subject.

Bills in the amount of $187,262.32 as of Feb. 22 were approved for payment.

During comments by aldermen, Bob Snidow stated that he had received a complaint regarding two boys riding in the police car with officers. Chief Wycoff stated that the Police Department did have two boys riding in the car as part of a school program known as “Job Shadowing.”

Gene Schweizer made a motion to contact natural gas investors to discuss reconstructing of bonds.

Mayor Davis apologized to the board for not attending the tour of the new dog kennels.

The above are the unapproved minutes of the regular meeting for the city of Gallatin held on Feb. 25 at city hall. Present were Mayor L.B. Davis, aldermen Bob Snidow, Norma Griffin, Gene Schweizer, Shonna Morrison and City Administrator Kathy Arnold. Also present were Police Chief Wycoff, Becky Ness, Donald Smith and Andy Macias.