Town Council Work Session

Town Council Work Session Meeting minutes March 14, 2024 6pm In Attendance: Mayor Bruce Rowley, Councilmembers Ray Evans, Rachel Goates, Bre Aagard, Chris Chipping. Also in attendance: Chantal Rowley (Deputy Clerk), Christine Carrigan (Clerk), Judy Smith (Treasurer), Rebecca Dopp (Times-News), Carol Bennett Welcome Mayor Bruce Rowley commenced the meeting with an acknowledgment of attendees and expressions of gratitude for their presence. New Water Meter Installations Discussions focused on the influx of requests for water meter installations on individual lots, despite no immediate plans for developing the properties on said lots. Concerns were raised over the limited water supply and the possibility of needing to impose restrictions, including the necessity for homeowners to procure water from external sources for future developments. There was discussion on how a landowner might get water for animals or gardens on a lot without a meter. Further deliberations touched upon the resolution to allow water meters only in conjunction with building permits for structures requiring water, such as houses or other buildings with bathrooms. The aim is to prevent the depletion of water resources and assure fair access for future construction needs. Zero Usage Water Meter Rates (Winter Rates) The council deliberated on increasing winter rates for water meters to ensure that all property owners contribute equally to the municipal water system maintenance, regardless of water usage. The proposition entailed raising the 'winter rate' from $7 to $25 to cover system upgrades and maintenance evenly throughout the town. The Town will be increasing the winter water rate to $25 to maintain fairness in the contribution towards our water system upgrades. Trailer Park Business Licenses The meeting highlighted that the mobile home parks in Town are currently without valid business licenses due to changes in ownerships and owing to various infractions, notably electrical infractions that fail to meet code. Strong suggestions were made to require immediate remedial actions, including necessary upgrades to the electrical systems and the cleanup of debris and abandoned appliances presenting safety hazards. The Council will give the mobile home parks 90 days to complete the necessary upgrades and cleanliness measures required for a business license. Vandalism at Municipal Park The council discussed recent vandalism to the municipal park, including damage to a slide and building structures, resulting in necessary repairs and a discussion on the installation of security cameras. An offer for a reward for information leading to the responsible parties was contemplated. The Town will install security cameras at the municipal park to discourage further vandalism of community property. Adjourn The meeting was concluded with an agreement to adjourn. "Motion to adjourn." Motion made by Ray Evans, seconded by Rachel Goates. All in favor. Work Session adjourned at 6:51pm. Christine Carrigan, Clerk