KNIGHT SAYS TOWN UNDER STRONG MAYOR PLAN - March 4, 2002 Meeting Items

(04/01/2002)
Mayor Gary Knight advised Councilwoman JoAnn Shock the Town of Grantsville is "under the strong mayor-council plan," related to a controversy between some town council members and Knight over who has the the right to hire and fire.

Shock asked if the town had an attorney on retainer. She was advised by Mayor Knight, to his knowledge the town has never had an attorney on retainer.

The March 4 minutes also includes the following items:

Council approved some plan changes on the town's municipal water system, recommended by engineer Nick Woods. The water plant has been in operation about one year.

Woods advised $20,000 was left-over in a contingency fund. He said the town was advised they could use this money to purchase a truck, holding tank and computer system. The computer system has been purchased.

Luke Peters of the MOVRC presented a Rural Utilities Service Resolution for invoices and services for the water plant, which was approved.

Luke Peters presented a final payment estimate on the sewer plant. Approval was given to draw down $46,158. Peters introduced Diane Ludwig, newly hired director of the Little Kanawha Economic Development Authority.

Paul Funk asked if the Town of Grantsville had a Housing Authority or Building Committee to tear down a house partially destroyed by fire on the west end of Main Street. Mayor Knight will check with state authorities regarding the matter.

Robert Marks addressed the council on trimming trees and throwing them over the river bank. Police Chief Charles McCroskey has knowledge that word was sent to the land owner to have trees trimmed.

Warren Basnett stated that parking meters are being checked three times a day.

Permission was given to John Oshoway to use the City Park for an easter egg hunt.

Mayor Knight commented that the Wood Festival may be canceled due to lack of involvement.

A motion was approved to hire a pool manager with the understanding the applicant must be 21 years old and possess valid lifeguard certification.

Bonnie Bird was authorized to attend a PEIA meeting in Parkersburg.

Steve Husk has completed his physical examination and is able to attend the State Police Academy. Council approved paying his salary for 13 weeks.

Mayor Knight received a letter from Loretta Stevens desiring to serve as a council member. Jane Wease nominated Stevens, but the motion died for lack of a second. Peggy Cain nominated Bonnie Brown, who was approved to fill the vacancy.

Shelia Gherke presented financial statements for the month of January, with a budget meeting scheduled for March 11.

Mayor Knight reported the parking spaces on the west end of Main Street are not a safety hazard, with an earlier resolution regulating those spaces rescinded.

Council requested the fire hydrant at the dairyette be repaired.

Council will revise the handbook on March 11.