The Scranton city council officially took the steps toward appointing a mayor to fill the vacancy in that position during its Jan. 13 regular meeting. A resolution was passed to ask residents to submit their interest in the position.
A letter of interest must be submitted by noon on Friday, Feb. 6. The appointment will be made at the Tuesday, Feb. 10, meeting.
The vacancy was created by the unexpected death of Rodney Walker in mid-December. The successor will fill the vacancy until the next regular city election next Nov. 3.
The council met jointly with township trustees for the annual meeting with fire chief Doug Duff. Duff presented the yearly report with no questions asked.
Jason Miller with MSA Professional Services discussed the agreement with the city for services. The council approved the agreement for $23,500.
Arnold Thomas answered questions about the water and waste system grant agreement. That agreement for $23,000 was ratified by the council.
Monthly reports were given by department heads including:
- David Dideriksen reported help has been scheduled to cover the library while librarian Ashley Squibb is on maternity leave. Also discussed was the sale of the old building, vacancy on the library board and a large gift of money expected to be left to the library.
- Bob South reported on the sewer system including blower repair, preventative maintenance plan and update on control panel repairs.
- Jim Jones gave the water report including a safety issue with caustic soda. The council agreed to allow modifications which includes the purchase of PVC pipe and a chemical line to move the chemical.
- Chad Kirk reported on maintenance. That included water leak repair, maps, snow removal and the request for a snow blower. The need for part time help was discussed. The council agreed to post a job opening for a part-time public works employee.
The parks Committee commented on the Pond Park project. Prices are sought for possible RV hookups, horseshoe pits and additional signage. ~The Scranton Journal
