REPUBLIC - Repaying $35,000 used for the police chief's salary to the water, sewer and utility funds topped the agenda at Republic's council meeting Monday night.
Chief Randy Marfia previously said a percentage of his time was spent familiarizing former village administrator Ronnie Trott with the position regarding utilities. The funds were used to compensate Marfia from August 2010 through December 2011 when newly elected Mayor Bruce Lambert stopped such action. Lambert said the $35,000 is to be provided by the police fund and the general fund.
Council members voted a 3-3 tie with Lambert breaking the tie in favor of repaying the funds.
"We have to learn to live with the money we have," Lambert said.
Councilman Matt Lucius said Attica is no longer interested in the police department merger due to the controversy in Republic.
During the last council meeting in the Town Hall, Lambert announced revised working hours for the chief. Monday night, he introduced an ordinance adjusting the police chief position to part time. Members heard the first reading of the ordinance with a provision repealing all previous ordinances speaking to the topic to be added before final approval.
"For those of you that supported us, we knew this was coming," Marfia said to the couple dozen citizens present. "That's why we were trying for a police contract with Attica for adequate coverage."
In his report, Marfia announced he was proposing a revised schedule for his hours in order to attend council meetings. He reported a burglary had taken place in the village Feb. 28 with guns being stolen but since recovered, and charges have been filed against two individuals.
Interim Village Administrator Darin Brown recommended the village continue its telemetry system checks contract for the water/wastewater plant. He stated re-greasing the water tower is due and he is to obtain three quotes estimating the cost to be $5,000-$6,500. Two trees and a stump need removed and Brown said he will acquire several estimates for the project to present at the next meeting.
Some alleyways are in need of stone but it was suggested they use ground asphalt from the village's stockpile.
Fiscal Officer Monique Delaney presented the cash summary by funds and the mayor's court report. Council approved paying bills.
In other matters, council:
Heard the first reading of the ordinance accepting the 2012 permanent appropriations.
Considered paying off village bonds, saving $8,700 in interest. Lambert is to check on any early payment penalties.
Approved paying Marfia overtime for participating at community meeting pertaining to the possible police merger.
Accepted salary percentages for fund allocation for village employees.
Agreed to reimburse a citizen a sewer fee, following a water leak, minus the three-month average usage charge. Brown suggested council adopt a policy for unforeseen situations such as this.
Plans to contact the Seneca County Health District concerning a vacant property.
Council scheduled a special meeting at 6:30 p.m. Monday for the second reading of this year's permanent appropriations with a final reading during the 6:30 p.m. March 19.
