ALDERMEN: Hazard Mitigation Plan accepted, finance update given

Alderman Kyle Williams, the chairman of the utility committee, spoke about the fund balances.

“If you look at the starting balance of our electric reserve, we’ve actually grown that. It is a good sign we’re heading in the right direction with our electric reserve. We are supposed to have at least three to five (months of funds saved). We’re heading in the right direction with that $10 service availability fee. It is working,” said Williams.

Next, the aldermen discussed a bid for base rock for municipal use. Public works director Mark Nash says the rock will be used to repair main breaks, street maintenance, and other city needs. According to Nash, the rock is packed into holes created during maintenance to replace unstable material. The bids from Rolla and Houston were $1 higher per ton, and Nash says would also involve the expense and inconvenience of driving trucks to get the rock. Nash recommended the bid from Capitol Quarries $4,252, but given the fluctuations in price, he requested a budget of $5,000 to accommodate the possibility of a sudden price change. The aldermen approved the $5,000 bid by a vote of 4-0.

Next, Nash discussed the need for a submersible pump for the sewer system.

“This is the pump that goes right before the ultraviolet station. This pumps the water into that so the ultraviolet station can do its part before it goes on out.”

He said he’d received a bid for a new pump at $52,130, as well as a rebuilt pump at $28,800. Both pumps come with a one-year warranty. Nash said that the rebuilt pump would have all new parts except for the impeller.

“It spun a bearing in there, and when it did it ruined the trash, and ruined the stater. Just basically trashed the inside of the pump."

According to Nash, the city has budgeted $53,000 for these kinds of expenses. Nash asked the board to accept the $28,800 bid for the rebuilt pump. The recommendation was accepted with a 4-0 vote.

During reports of city officials, Mayor Greg Parker reminded the public that the 100 Acre Wood rally race would be in town March 17 and 18. He also said there would be AARP volunteers doing taxes for free at the Salem Community Center @ the Armory, and that Healthy Dent County employees are currently taking appointments until April 7. He said those interested should call 729-8163.

He also asked Salem residents to use their driveways instead of parking in the street so as not to interfere with city crews working to clear snow.

During his report, Nash said that his crews were disconnecting dead lines from inactive service locations, in order to minimize “line loss” and to reduce safety risks.

During her report, alderwoman Kala Sisco thanked emergency and essential workers.

“I wanted to thank in advance MODOT and our city workers, and our police department, I’m sure the fire department is going to be involved some. Just keeping our roads safe, keeping our people safe, and keeping it clean for people to get back and forth to work.”

Alderman Bolerjack reported that Love Thy Neighbor has announced the annual project week, which will be June 4-8. Love Thy Neighbor is a charity organization that volunteers to perform repairs and renovation work on the homes of those in need. Bolerjack said that those who might be eligible to receive assistance from the organization can submit a homeowner application by March 1. Love Thy Neighbor also has a volunteer application. Both applications can be found at ltndent.com.

Alderman Williams reported that he is involved with the upcoming 100 Acre Wood Rally race, and the volunteer registration for the race is open at rally.100aw.org.

“They’re always looking for volunteers, especially if you have any kind of EMS experience. But if you want to watch it and want to beat the crowd, it’s a great way to do it,” said Williams.

The aldermen voted 4-0 to adjourn at 6:30 p.m.