Coming late in the Monday session of the Adrian board of alderman it was disclosed that the city may face legal issues regarding the documentation of grant money not reported by officials who were operating the former Adrian Manor nursing home some years back. At this juncture, the city may face some type of legal repercussion and Administrator Ryan Wescote is looking into the matter. An update is expected during the upcoming May 13 regular meeting.
Online bill paying is in the testing phase and soon residents will have the option to pay remotely. Wescote said that a new phone number will be associated with billing questions and that information will be revealed very soon.
TAP (Transportation Alternatives Program) grant money is available to build new sidewalks with areas along First street and old business 71 at the focal point. As more money could become available, other areas around town will come under consideration as well.
Alderman Hummel reported that the city park is all set for Summertime events. Ball diamonds and soccer fields are groomed and ready; construction is underway on the new volleyball court as well. The Adrian high school FFA is getting involved with the project as they will be manufacturing the poles and other necessary hardware to complete the project. It was also noted that the arena is in good condition and ready to for the Bates County Sheriff’s Office annual rodeo coming this Summer.
A discussion was held regarding replacement of aging storm warning sirens, at this moment all are functional with the exception of one located in the alley next to the First Baptist Church. The alderman with EMA director Ken Newsome discussed the possibility of better placement of new replacement sirens where they could be much more effective. For now, the subject was tabled until more information can be sought.
A decision was made to replace an aging John Deere tractor and mower. The new equipment will run $222,000 and with a trade in allowance on old equipment of $56,740 the city has money in the budget to cover the balance. The 38 year old tractor and 18 year old mower were beginning to ‘nickel and dime’ the city regarding repairs and the 56k trade in allowance cinched the deal.
The next big item on the agenda will be putting the final touches on the upcoming budget. Administrator Wescote noted that things look good so far and having solid information to work with from last year will enable extreme accuracy. At this juncture the initial budget will be presented in May, finalized in June and implemented beginning in July.
The Adrian board of alderman meet on the second Monday of the month, 7 pm at city hall. The public is highly encouraged to attend.
