The Minonk City Council approved a motion to adjust the water bills accumulated by Vernon and Betty Barth. The Barth's water bill was extremely high due to the watering of the new grass planted over the ground where a storm drainage tile was laid last fall. The Public Works Committee felt that since the language in the contract signed by the City and the Barth's indicated the Barth's would not have to pay to have their yard replaced, their fees should be waived. Alderman Russell Ruestman made a motion that the Barth's water bill due in April, May, June and July be adjusted to the average balance of the previous three months.
New City Administrator Gary Brennan
The Minonk City Council and Mayor Bill Koos welcomed Gary Brennan in his role as the new city administrator for Minonk. Mr. Brennan said he was excited to be in Minonk and is looking forward to working with the Mayor and the Council.
Mayor Koos said the City will probably enforce a total ban on outdoor burning starting this weekend. The Mayor said he wanted to discuss the matter with the Police Chief and Fire Chief before making a final decision. The Mayor indicated he would notify the local media when the ban is to take effect.
The Mayor said Minonk's water supply is not in danger of running out saying that he has been informed that the aquifer supply is plentiful. Koos did say he did not encourage residents to start using water excessively as it will put a strain on the water equipment at the pump station.
Public Comments
Marsha Anderson asked if the City has an answer as to where the water went that resulted in a $210 water bill for her mother Clara Arrowsmith. Mayor Koos replied he just returned from vacation and did not have time to address the issue but will look into it in preparation for the next council meeting.
Parks and Rec administrator Rich Luckey thanked the City and its staff for the support at Veterans Park during the successful softball tournament held there last week. He said 140 boys participated in the program. He also thanked the Fire Department for watering the ball field prior to the tournament.
Council Comments
Alderwoman Julie Redenius said volunteers are needed for next year's July 4th celebration. She said if enough volunteers are not available, the celebration will hold only the parade and the fireworks next year. Alderman Russell Ruestman thanked the July 4th committee for their hard work in making Minonk's annual July 4th celebration a success.
Mayor's Comments
Mayor Koos thanked the July 4th committee for their work and said the community needs volunteers in order to get things done. He also thanked Rich Luckey and the Parks & Rec members for their hard work and dedication.