In new business Thursday eve, following City Clerk Dawn Paul's reading of election results furnished by the of Benton County Clerk's office, she swore in new Mayor Diana Burdick who was formerly a city alderman, returning Alderman Mindy Fox, and newly elected Alderman Jeremiah Crider. The group also appointed Steve Knox to serve in Mayor Burdick's former position, and prior to appointment of new officers, plaques of appreciation were given to Alderman Fox and Mayor Meuschke.
The meeting opened at 7:00 PM on, April 18, with Aldermen Fox, Burdick and David Locke present. Alderman Jon Beckman was absent. Mayor Bob Meuschke presided; Clerk Paul recorded. The group then approved the eve's agenda, payment of March bills, and its March 21 meeting minutes.
In old business, they approved one of four bids received for purchase of a 2015 Silverado truck; a $17,500 bid submitted by Fabrau Charles, of Lexingon.
Also under new business after seating of new officers, the group elected Alderman Fox as Mayor Pro Tem and issued a corporate resolution for all Aldermen and Mayor Burdick to be included as signatory authorities on the city's bank accounts. Aldermen also authorized issuance of a request for qualifications for selection of a firm to provide engineering services in connection with a TAP grant for downtown west side sidewalks. The group hoped that work on the downtown eastside sidewalks could be done at the same time. Finally, aldemen also selected continued membership by the city in the Kaysinger Basin Regional Planning Comission at a slightly increased rate of 30 cents per city resident. The group recognized that KBRPC had provided grant writing support for the city. Mayor Burdick volunteered to represent the city in that matter.
City Clerk Paul reported that auditors will be in the city the first week of May. She added that a city vehicle she sometimes used was "sick". She said she had gotten two repair bids, but was directed to get a third.
Public Works Director Heath Roark thanked several groups for their recent help.
Police Chief Jeff Canfield reported he was going to a conference on April 28 and will be gone several days.
Acting City Attorney Hunter Martin said there will be training for new board officers on May 10 and May 17. Mayor Burdick thanked everyone who had helped with the recent election. She emphasized that public input is necessary in matters to be put before the board.
The open session closed about 8:20 PM to go into executive session.
These meetings are usually held on 3rd Thursday eves and the public is invited; but an open session is scheduled for 7:00 PM April 30.
