On a split vote of six in favor and one opposed, the Trenton City Council last night approved a motion to establish a curfew at the Trenton Reservoir.
It was suggested there be a midnight to 5:30 curfew just like in the parks and the city attorney was asked to develop an ordinance for the city council to take final action on at a future meeting.
Councilman Brad Chumbley voted against closing access overnight pointing out responsible citizens should be allowed to go fishing at the reservoir after midnight if they want too.
At a committee meeting last week, City employee Steve Reid explained something needed to be done to curtail vandalism, littering, and partying at the reservoir. The council was told last evening that a curfew gives police more authority in asking people to leave. Others contended that a posted curfew sign will not likely deter violators.
Voting in favor of the motion, but still subject to ordinance approval, were council members Glen Briggs, Allan Quilty, Travis Elbert, David Mlika, Larry Crawford and Jen Hottes-Urich. Absent was Councilman Larry Porter.
Mayor Nick McHargue informed the council of several requirements the DNR will want Trenton to meet if the state were to allow the public to take fishing boats out on the reservoir. No action on this topic was taken last night by the city council.
Tabled to another meeting was whether to again allow fundraisers at the three intersections that have traffic signal lights. Information is to be obtained regarding insurance liability on behalf of the city and organized groups holding a fund drive.
The city council rejected the only bid received for painting the Iowa Boulevard water tower. It was reported the company that submitted the bid changed the completion date until next year making it a “conditional” bid. City Administrator Ron Urton said bids will be advertised in December for painting both the Iowa Boulevard and Princeton Road water towers.
Lease – Purchase financing is expected to be completed tomorrow on the water tower and water line projects. The interest rate, submitted via a bid from one bank, is 3.6% although city officials and the financial adviser had hoped for a lower rate. The higher rate is expected to add $70,000 to costs.
The city council unanimously approved professional engineering services of Burns and McDonnell for construction on the 17th Street and the Harris Avenue water line projects. The cost is not to exceed $54, 200 per the agreement.
The council approved a motion to no longer require department heads to attend the twice a month council meetings unless they have a topic on the agenda or are requested to be present. And in a related matter, the council voted to have the attorney draft an ordinance to no longer require the park superintendent to come to council meetings.
It was noted department heads submit a written report monthly to the Council and attend, twice monthly, department head and staff meetings at City Hall.
Two weeks ago, Councilman Brad Chumbley requested a city ordinance be rescinded requiring landowners to mow their property out to the city. A discussion was held last night with no action taken– noting the existing ordinance continues in effect.
Before a decision is made on repairs to a tractor mower being used by the street department, City Administrator Ron Urton is to visit with Trenton Township about a cooperative arrangement regarding mowing.
Street Supervisor Martin Schieb reported the hydraulic pump is leaking oil. He obtained a quote on a used pump, plus labor, to be an expense of $10,000 to $12,000.
Mayor McHargue was questioned by a member of the public as to why he did not consult with two previous candidates for Council when a vacancy was created this spring by Scott Blair’s move from the city. Larry Crawford was appointed by the Mayor, with the consent of the city council, to fill the fourth ward seat.
In answering the question, Doctor McHargue said he chose someone to fill out the term who had prior experience in serving on the council in the past and was familiar with utility issues and budgets. This position, along with three others, will be up for election next April in the city of Trenton.
The city council also met last night in closed session regarding real estate.
