ATTICA - School cannot be far behind when talk turned to closing the swimming pool at the council meeting Thursday evening.

A free swim was announced for closing day, Aug. 9, preceding the start of the Independent Fair in the community.

Clerk/Treasurer Larry Dunson said pool proceeds for the summer should top $7,000.

Another above ground pool appearing to have no safety fence surrounding it was sighted in the village and Village Administrator Greg Martin said he would check on it.

Martin said Seneca East Superintendent Mike Wank has contacted him about removing the traffic signal lights in the village. Wank was obtaining figures for how many children use them to ascertain their removal.

He also said repairs to the water tower were completed last week. The water tower had received damage of three bullet holes last winter. They were patched until a new panel could be installed.

He said the village's sludge would be removed to a landfill.

Engineer Lynn Makeever said the modifications of changing out steel filters for plastic ones at the water treatment plant requested by the EPA has been completed.

Solicitor Dean Henry said a representative from the Seneca County General Health District will attend the next council meeting to discuss abandoned homes and rundown properties in the village. He said the representative is to offer guidance and direction in deciding solutions.

Henry also said the USDA mortgage papers signed by the village for its water treatment plant and reservoir cannot be located at the county recorder's office. The paperwork is to be signed again.

Dunson asked council to form a financial advisory committee recommended by the state auditor's office. The committee would consist of the treasurer, one council member and two community representatives.

Police Chief Jeff Briggs said the police cruiser, just repaired earlier this month, has again received damage in an accident. The offending officer is no longer with the department and Briggs requested part-time reserve officer Jim Gilliam, who has received his certification, be hired as a part-time officer. He reminded council Officer Guy Hartsel is resigning Aug. 31.

Mayor Bryan Shock and council members mentioned receiving complaints from residents about the new water and sewer rates in the village. Shock said several have asked for a monthly reading of meters instead of estimates being used for some months. Council members noted spotting residents using water saving techniques around town such as 50-gallon drums placed under downspouts and a reduction of garden watering.

The meeting moved into executive session for discussion of litigation and personnel.

In other action, council:

n Heard the first reading of the resolution of necessity for the police levy to be placed on the November ballot.

n Heard the village association meeting is 6:30 p.m., Thursday at the Green Springs municipal building.

n Heard recycling is 4:30-6:30 p.m., Aug, 6 with Reed Township in charge.

Council meets next at 7:30 p.m., Aug. 6 in the village hall.