Early in the July 14 Adrian board of aldermen meeting, it was asked what is the current status of the Deer Creek annexation to which City Administrator Ryan Wescote replied "it's moving forward" but he went on to say that there possibly had been some miscommunication with one of the large property owners, who was "out of the loop" regarding the city's plans."I've since had some conversations with them, I think everyone is on the same page now. At this time, there will be an update coming soon as there are a few more things to be worked out including getting everyone in the subdivision on the petition."
Parallel to that, changes to leadership structure within the HOA may be coming as well. "As soon as all that's completed, we'll be ready to get the law firm involved and take the next step."
As pointed out in the May alderman meeting, there would be many benefits for the subdivision some of which would include city's responsibility for utilities and roads primarily. More about the annexation will be covered in upcoming meetings, anyone who has concerns or questions should plan to attend.
Jim Osborne, water plant operator, appeared before the aldermen to make a plea for holiday pay for permanent part time employees. "None of us deserve full holiday benefits as full time employees do. But if we work (on the holiday) we don't get paid for it as a holiday. I believe if we work (on Christmas, the 4th, etc.) we should get paid for it accordingly".
Osborne went on to say that bereavement pay would be a great benefit as well. He said that he has lost two sons, a grandson and a brother during which he had no choice but to take the days off without pay. "In my opinion, that's wrong. I think we deserve bereavement pay for those days. I'm just asking for your consideration." He added that it would be not just for him, but everyone in the same situation. The subject was moved to executive session for further discussion.
Parking along 8th street has been an issue as it is not allowed along either side of the street. Alderman Bridges pointed out that the passage can be quite narrow when trying to get a fire truck through and cars on both sides the street could present a real problem. Mayor Cunningham mentioned doing an easement as was done on Missouri street could help gain some space. "It's either that or having cars parking in the ditch" to which Admin Wescote added that off street parking might be a good alternative. In any case, it is obvious that more space will have to be freed up to remove the current no parking restriction.
The conversation closed with Wescote saying he is going to look into the matter, compile some information and get back to the aldermen with his findings.
It was announced that the planning and zoning commission has some new members and the lineup now is as follows:
4 year terms - Matthew Coones, Steve Bartholomew
3 year terms - Bart Taylor, Ella Tindle
2 year terms - David Brownsberger, Bill Foster
1 year term - Deana Perkins, Tim Sterner
Mayor/Council Rep - Matt Cunningham
President - Bart Taylor
Vice President - Matthew Coones
Secretary - David Brownsberger
According to Administrator Wescote, code inspections are a top priority whether it be for new or existing rehab/construction. Mayor Cunningham echoed the sentiment, as well as Jeremy Bridges who said that "anywhere else, contractors have to follow code" and that Adrian should be no different. It is likely an inspector may need to be put on the payroll at some point, but there are options available. Ryan Wescote said that the August meeting agenda already includes discussion of these, along with related topics as the city continues to clean up codes in general.
Some modification was made to Adrian's liquor license ordinance as the original ordinance was taken verbatim from state statute and needed to be tailored for the city. The changes included restructuring of fees and it is recommended that anyone with or seeking such a license needs to contact city hall. Business license renewals have now been aligned with liquor license renewals, again contact city hall if you have questions.
Other action during the meeting included approval of tires for a fire truck, the library budget and some ongoing discussion about the fireworks ordinance.
The Adrian Board of Aldermen meet on the second Monday, 7 pm at city hall and the public is highly encouraged to attend.
