REPUBLIC - Interim Village Administrator Darin Brown returned Monday evening with quotes for the removal of four trees for council members to consider. They included cutting, chipping, stump grinding and clean up. Council voted to hire Jarrett Tree Service for $775 upon proof of insurance.
Brown also had acquired three estimates for the removal and re-greasing of the village water tower. After examining the bids, council awarded Rural Water Storage the project for $5,000.
He remarked the job probably would be completed sometime between April and June and take two to three days. Some water pressure reduction would be noted in the village during the process. Community members are to be notified when the project is to occur.
Brown reported an incident of destroying a door to gain entry into the village safe that contained mayor's court material. He presented costs for replacement at $500 for a digital safe. Members are to discuss the need at a later meeting.
Included in the conversation regarding the reinstating of Officer Zach Stumpf to the police department, it was noted the mutual aid agreement with Bloomville and Attica is up for renewal this year.
Mayor Bruce Lambert questioned Police Chief Randy Marfia's overtime. Marfia explained the ongoing circumstances of an active case to which he was responding. Lambert wants a policy written on the issue of overtime. The personnel committee set 5:30 p.m. Monday to discuss the policy. Members voted to approve the overtime, but Lambert added he doesn't want this coming up every two weeks.
Two dozen citizens filled council chambers again. Several expressed displeasure with the reduction of police coverage hours. They said they feel speeders make the streets unsafe for their children. After viewing a video of a confrontation between Stumpf and Lambert, some stated they would be afraid to contact the mayor for any kind of help.
Lambert read the police policy pertaining to insubordination, but the big question that loomed over the incident was, Councilman Mike Oberlander said, "Does the mayor have authority over the officers?" Protocol states the chief is the department head and the mayor has a general oversight.
At the conclusion of the discussion, Officer Jared Watson stated his verbal resignation from the department.
Fiscal Officer Monique Delaney submitted the mayor's court report and the cash summary by fund report. State auditors are to be in the village next week examining records from 2010-11, according to Delaney.
In other action, Council:
Adopted an ordinance establishing the 2012 permanent appropriations.
Heard the second reading of an ordinance adjusting the police chief position to a part-time position.
Heard village worker Butch Ebersole resigned, effective immediately.
Accepted council rules.
Tabled the personnel policy manual approval for further examination.
Heard a house is being considered for condemnation by Seneca County Health Department.
Discussed unlicensed vehicles parked in the village.
The council is to meet next at 6:30 p.m. April 2.
