Deliberate on several personnel matters; Hire two in meeting
The Webbers Falls Board of Trustees convened to address a range of community matters, spanning from municipal expenditures to public safety initiatives, during their recent monthly meetings.
During their May 14 meeting, the town’s mayor delivered promising updates, heralding the completion of the downtown building’s roof and the installation of an electric box for a prospective museum relocation.
Department heads then provided updates on key developments within their respective domains, including the installation of a generator by the fire department and progress on park maintenance efforts amid inclement weather. It was also noted that the town’s ISO audit was completed and they are awaiting results, as of press time.
Code enforcement officer Justin Ohl reported several letters had been sent out regarding residential yards, and it was discussed that property owners would be responsible for mowing the ditches and right-of-ways.
Vice mayor Jewel Hall reportedly donated flowers for the I-40 Bridge Memorial ceremony last month, and maintenance crews planted them in flower pots.
The trustees voted to pay the IFS Group invoice for engineering work done on the Wastewater Lagoon Project, as well as a payment of $59,999 to S3 Construction LLC for work on the project, per recommendation of the project engineer.
The board moved to allocate funds towards the upcoming 2024 fireworks show, with the Webbers Falls Fire Department spending $2,000 on fireworks for the upcoming show.
The trustees also passed a Tobacco, Smoke and Vapor-free ordinance for the town, and a fence permit was approved for a residence on Main Street.
The acquisition of essential equipment for the police department was unanimously approved, securing the purchase of seven new Axon Body 4 body cameras and Taser 10 devices, showcasing a concerted effort towards enhancing law enforcement capabilities.
In a proactive measure aimed at fiscal prudence, trustees proposed the establishment of a rainy-day fund, earmarking a portion of sales tax revenue to mitigate potential economic uncertainties in the future.
The board deliberated on various personnel matters, ultimately resolving to hire new recruits and determine salary adjustments within the police department and municipal staff following an executive session. No action was taken on hiring James Linduff as a reserve officer, Brenna Reed was hired at $15 per hour as a police officer, while Bradley Brocker was hired as a town employee at $13.50 per hour. In addition, police chief Brandon “Mike” James’ salary was unanimously approved by the trustees at $38,000 per year.
April meetings During a 3-minute special meeting on April 12, the trustees unanimously accepted the resignation of police chief Wayne Cartwright. And then voted to appoint James as police chief.
Also approved during the meeting were agreements between the Webbers Falls Fire Department, with both the Warner and Gore Fire Departments.
A second special meeting held on April 25 resulted in the approval of job No. 24-0416-C in the amount of $6,500 to A-1 Commercial Roofing LLC. for guttering on E. Commercial Street.
This news story is based on the unofficial minutes from the board meeting and could be in error if the minutes are changed prior to adoption.
