Meeting Minutes- November 2, 2016
The Churubusco Town Council met on November 2, 2016 at 6:30 p.m. in the Town Hall. Members present were President Frank Kessler, Council Member Mark Pepple, and Clerk- Treasurer, Madalyn Sade-Bartl. Also in attendance were area residents Deb Potts, Barb Young, Lisa Potter, Brain Casey, Charles Weimer, Pat Liggett, Jean Haynes, Scott Lowe, and Pat Stanford; Waste Water Superintendent, Bob Gray; Park Superintendent, Rick Krider; Town Supervisor, Jeremy Hart; and Town Marshal, Mike Engle.
Council President Kessler called the meeting to order, welcomed visitors and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll was called by the Clerk-Treasurer. Bruce Johnson was absent.
Approval of October 19, 2016 meeting minutes:
Mr. Pepple made a motion to approve the minutes for the meeting of October 19, 2016. Mr. Kessler seconded and the motion carried 2-0.
Approval of Claims and Payroll Vouchers:
Claims Vouchers dated for November 2, 2016 in the amount of $113,496.13 were approved.
Public Comment:
Brian Casey approached Council to discuss the improvements made on the 300 block of Greenwood Circle. Although the Council had decided to put stone in the middle of the circle at a previous meeting, he wanted to voice his concern for that decision. Numerous other residents voiced their favor for the Council’s previous decision. After listening to several comments, President Kessler stated the decision had already been made and there would be no changes.
Old Business:
There was no old business.
New Business:
1. 2017 Salary Ordinance: Ms. Bartl presented to Council Ordinance 2016-22: An Ordinance Amending the Salaries of Elected Officials and Other Employees of the Town of Churubusco for the Year 2017. She explained the ordinance reflected a 2% increase for most positions apart from the elected positions, which received no raise. The Park Superintendent position also changed from part-time to full-time and the wage was adjusted to a salary amount to an hourly amount to compensate for the FLSA changes that were going into effect on December 1, 2016. Mr. Pepple asked Mr. Krider if he agreed with becoming a full-time employee. While Mr. Krider stated he was aware of the 40 hour per week requirement, Ms. Bartl explained other expenses that would arise with the addition of another full-time employee. She also stated she was unsure if the Park budget could absorb those costs. Much discussion ensued, including Mr. Pepple’s views that it was long overdue for the Park to be supervised by the Town Supervisor instead of the Town Council. While that opinion caught Mr. Krider off guard, he maintained his wish to become a full-time employee. Finally, Mr. Pepple made a motion to approve Ordinance 2016-22. President Kessler seconded and the motion carried 2-0.
2. 2016 Salary Ordinance Amendment: With the FLSA changing in December, the current salary ordinance had to be changed to reflect those changes. Mr. Pepple made a motion to accept the changes within Ordinance 2016-23. Mr. Kessler seconded and the motion carried 2-0.
3. Pay Raise- Kari Shively: Ms. Bartl asked Council to consider moving her Deputy Clerk, Kari Shively, from a pay grade 2 to a pay grade 1 effective with the beginning of the new salary ordinance. She explained Ms. Shively was a huge asset to both the office and the Town. Mr. Hart voiced the same sentiments as did Mr. Pepple and President Kessler. Mr. Pepple made a motion to accept the request. Mr. Kessler seconded and the motion carried 2-0.
Department Reports:
Jeremy Hart, Town Supervisor
Mr. Hart presented the attached report. Mr. Pepple asked when John Krieger Drive would be completed. He stated that if the weather held, it would be complete by Friday.
Bob Gray, Waste Water Treatment Plant Supervisor
Mr. Gray reported all reports were in and the land application began that day. President Kessler asked if he had found a solution to the occurrence of lightning striking the plant. Mr. Gray stated there were some arresters that had been installed since the last event.
Michael Engle, Town Marshal:
Marshal Engle stated there was an issue with the paint on the new police car. It was under warranty and would be fixed.
Rick Krider, Park Supervisor:
Mr. Krider reported the reconstruction of the Diamond 1 dugouts was near completion. He also reported some work was being done to the soccer field.
Ron Felger, Town Attorney:
Mr. Felger was not present.
Council Reports:
President Frank Kessler:
President Kessler had nothing to report.
Bruce Johnson:
Mr. Johnson was not present.
Mark Pepple:
Mr. Pepple had nothing to report.
Madalyn Sade-Bartl:
Ms. Sade-Bartl reported Halloweenfest was, again, hugely successful. Over 700 children were counted during the daytime activities and over 800 at night. She also reminded everyone the food drive would end on Friday.
Having no other business and after all proper papers were signed, President Kessler adjourned the regular meeting.
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Council President, Frank Kessler
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Council Member, Bruce Johnson
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Council Member, Mark Pepple
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Madalyn Sade-Bartl, Clerk-Treasurer
