The Webbers Falls Board of Trustees convened on Oct. 8, where they approved the purchase of a K9 for the police department, but took no action on the town’s cat overpopulation.
The meeting began at 6:12 p.m. with the board unanimously approving the consent items, which included bills and recurring expenses for October, as well as the minutes from the previous meeting.
In the public speaking section, no residents voiced concerns, leaving the board to address communications from its members. Trustee Danny Haley raised an issue regarding the use of confetti cannons during the recent homecoming parade, expressing concern over the mess left on the streets.
Police Chief Mike James provided an overview of police activities for September, while Fire Chief Dalton Armstrong reported on multiple fire calls and that the new rescue truck was now in service. City Maintenance Director Shane Robinson discussed ongoing mowing and brush hogging efforts, highlighting challenges with certain ditches.
Code Enforcement officials reported progress with property clean-up, specifically noting that Roy Brown is in the process of demolishing his old residence. The board agreed to streamline future grass abatement notices.
Significant actions taken included the initiation of abatement processes for two properties, 512 N Stand Watie Blvd. and 314 N. 5th Street, both of which have been problematic for the town. The trustees also approved the bylaws and bank account establishment for the town’s Senior Nutrition Program.
A lively debate ensued regarding the employee vehicle policy, with Trustee Robert Ross Jr. advocating for limiting take-home vehicles to supervisors and ECOWA employees. However, the majority voted to maintain the current policy, allowing all field employees access to take-home vehicles for emergencies.
The board approved a lease agreement for the Webbers Falls Museum and discussed future relocation plans for the town hall and police department, but no action was taken on those matters.
Additionally, the board greenlit an ODIS/ OSBI student internship program and approved the purchase of a K9 from Mountain Grove K9 Kennel for $16,000, with assurances from Chief James regarding future expenses. The purchase of two response bags for the police department in the amount of $2,156.95 each was also authorized.
Trustees addressed an ongoing street project, voting to proceed with paving side streets, and discussed the town’s cat overpopulation issue, though no actions were decided upon.
The meeting culminated in an executive session concerning the employment status of Fred Shamblin, with no actions taken upon reconvening, with the meeting concluding at 7:34 p.m.
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.
