Council Meeting and Study Session: July 20, 2009

I only have time for the Readers Digest version of the notes this time. We have another meeting tonight. I hope everyone can attend themselves and hear the full version of what happens in person! ~ Karen

The meetings began at 6 pm with an hour long study session to discuss the failing sewer system and the funding options. It was decided to pursue $5 million in a low interest, long-term loan from USDA. There will be a monthly cost of about $37 per hookup even after using most of the sewer reserve fund. There will also be a cost for those with older sewers to connect into the new system, but it will be required by the state eventually to reduce leakage.

The regular meeting began at 7 pm with all the elected officials present. The first order of business was a motion authorizing the mayor to pursue the loan for $5 million. Then the police, fire and planning department gave their monthly reports.

Public Comment
Terry Knapp asked for clarification on the sewer project. Edie Tallman thanked the police and fire department for their help patrolling on the 4th of July - she thought the day went well.

Business
Ordinance 1290: Repeal Library Card Reimbursement: Passed after some discussion 3-2 (Stebner, Albertson voting no). Refunds from town hall for the cost of a library card in Tacoma or Pierce County are no longer available.

Ordinance 1291: Administration of Development Regulations Passed 5-0 with no discussion.

Ordinance 1292: Height Increase on part of Pearl Street Commercial Zone: Passed 3-2 (Stebner, Alberston voting no).

Ordinance 1293: Public Records Policy: Amended and passed 5-0.

Ordinance 1294: Indemnification of Town Officials: Albertson was concerned that there was not enough definition about when officials would receive legal representation. No changes were made, and the measure passed 3-0 with 2 abstaining. Hedrick noted that the council rules require that a reason be given when abstaining or the abstentions are counted with the winning votes. Stebner changed his vote to no.

Resolution 449: Communications Maintenance Agreement: Passed 5-0

Resolution 450: Contract for Town Planner: Moved to the next meeting.

Resolution 451: Collective Barging Agreement for Town Employees: After a lengthy discussion led by Albertson, several problems were identified and the agreement was voted down by the council 0-5.

Budget Discussion: Albertson wants an estimate included with any proposal that outlines the impact on the budget. The rest of the council agreed and they will change the council rules to ratify the change.

I did not note what happened with claims and payroll.

Mayor's Time
The budget is looking better than expected at the 6 month mark. More curbs will be painted over the weekend. He is still getting bids for moving the kitchen in the Commencement sales center before the town moves to that space.

Council Time
Stebner is glad to see the street light replacement project moving forward.
Hedrick noted the passing of Mr. Bundrock, one of Ruston's longest standing residents.
Huson had nothing.
Albertson is still concerned about the town budget. He wants to see the building permits on a monthly basis as required by council rules.
Hunt is still researching potential tax increases to help the town balance the budget. She wants a study session soon to discuss the issue in detail.
Stebner wanted to know if the town was still going to bring someone in to audit the town books. The mayor is contact with someone who might volunteer to do that work.

The meeting adjourned about 8:45 pm.