After the approval of the previous meetings minutes the council jumped into the meat of the agenda and held the second reading of the current amendment to city ordinance #1478.
The change deals with the allowance of recreational vehicles to be utilized as a temporary residence, within city limits, during times of primary residence remodeling or initial construction. If a resident has to vacate the home because of construction the change will allow a one-year allowance with an additional year renewal if needed.
Personal services contracts were introduced for the Chief of Police and Clerk/Treasure positions.
“We have been working on this and as they positions have been operating for several years without a contract, it was the decision that one need to be drawn up,” said Mayor Julie Struck. “The contracts will run through December this year with changes, if determined, and renewals in January of 2015.”
Funding for a new park was discussed. Pioneer Park, will be located in the vacant lot across from city hall, the previous location of the old city hall. Plans are to seek funding for the creation of the park that will have grass, picnic tables, restrooms and possible historical signage. Working the current timeline to be in the selection process for the grant, the council moved forward with design and grant paperwork.
“We need to have this in by May 1,” commented Mayor Struck.
Small discussion ensued and everyone believed that it would be a true enhancement to the area and even possibly spark a little business for stores in the immediate area. After the paper work is submitted, it will not be until November if the council finds out that they have been selected to move forward in the process, and March 2015, to find out if they have been granted the funds.
Department head reports were quick and efficient with the report of a fairly busy week for the police.
“We went on nine domestic violence calls, with two arrested on felony charges. We also had a few DUI’s and car prowls are on the rise,” reported Chief Eastham.
The Chief also wanted the council to know that with the warmer weather, patrols will start focusing on late night pedestrians and bicyclers.
“We are just checking on people and the public should know that we will be out there,” noted Chief Eastham finishing his report.
City Supervisor Dale Little spoke about the Cedar Street project and that things are underway.
“People need to be cautious in the area, it is striped and has signs. The traffic flow has changed as well. The shoulders of the road are a little soft but we are laying in extra gravel and will be packing it down,” said Supervisor Little.
The mayor took time to welcome Dennis Houk who will be taking over as City Supervisor from Dale Little. Houk has been in cross training with Little, who will be retiring at the end of June.
“We are lucky to have Mr. Houk, and he already holds his residential inspection license, which was one of the things we were looking for,” stated Mayor Struck.
Clerk Dee Roberts made the further announcement that there will be an Open House on May 30, for Supervisor Little, running from 2-4 pm.
“People will be able to stop by and wish Supervisor Little well,” said Roberts.
Council reports went quickly with an encouragement from Member Pat Neve to have residents stop in and see the Oyster Plates at the museum.
“The plates are part of the Richard and Janet Wilson collection. We will be rotating in several plates from their collection,” said Neve.
Council Member Lisa Olsen spoke about a trip to Astoria and promoting the Willapa Bay on her visit.
The meeting wrapped up in under 30 minutes as the council adjourned at 5:54 pm.
The next South Bend City Council meet8ng is scheduled for May 12 at 5:30 pm.