Homer May
County Reporter
A problem facing small towns in this area is hiring and retaining police officers. From time to time several of Benton County's towns have addressed the issue, with at least two towns even offering to train a person interested in hiring into the local Department. Thus when City Police Chief Jeff Canfield reported Thursday eve that he had interviewed a prospective reserve officer that day, the group enthusiastically responded with "Bring him on!"
The meeting opened at 7 PM May 18, with Aldermen Jon Beckman, Diana Burdick, David Locke present. Alderman Mindy Fox was absent. Mayor Bob Meuschke presided; City Clerk Dawn Paul recorded. First heard by the group was citizen Francis Rehmer who said that he rides his bicycle around town and has seen rats crossing the street at one location, and has to weave around some potholes along his path, adding that he suffers some mosquito bites at one site where he rides. Mayor Meuschke commented that the City was aware of some of his problems and would address them as it can. The group then approved the evening's agenda, minutes of the Board's April 20 regular meeting, and okayed payment of April bills then accepted financials for the City. There was no old business.
Under new business, the group appointed Keven Calhoun to the City's Board of Adjustments and retained Alderman Locke as Board representative to the City's Planning and Zoning committee. Mayor Meuschke then discussed retaining Bartlett & West Co., as needed only, at billable rate, which was approved by the group. He then presented a citizen's request for a private water supply inside City limits. The City generally does not allow its citizens to obtain water from a source other than the City, but that citizen keeps a few cattle on his land, and he wanted to use his well water for those cattle. The group approved his request.
Tammy Eckhoff discussed P&Z's comprehensive plan, presently under development. A RFP has been sent out. City Clerk Paul reported that an audit of the City's 2022 books will begin in June, with a report expected in September. She also said her office has purchased five new computers, mostly laptops, and will need to purchase connections for those devices. Public Works Director Heath Roark reported progress on the City's water project and recommended purchase of a street paving machine. Police Chief Canfield said new dash cameras have been installed in police cars, and body cameras received are manually operated. He added that he will attend a Police Chief conference June 5 in Lincoln, and that there will be a July training event on domestic violence. He hoped to purchase a new tornado siren for the City soon, and said the light on the new water tower is out. Mayor Meuschke recommended purchase of an oil stabilization material for dust control on some City roads and provided an update on possible grants for bike and pedestrian travel, but added P&Z will study that project. He also led a discussion about placement of additional stop signs in the City, but no present decision was made on the matter.
The open session closed about 8:55 PM to go into closed session. Visitors are invited to the open meetings, which are usually held on 3rd Thursday eves.
