| Grantsville's council discussed at length last night several issues related to giving
pay raises to some town employees.
Recorder Jane Wease said she had budgeted for the increases, saying some
employees have not received a raise since 1997-98.
"Some employees deserve a raise," said Wease.
Councilman Charlie Whipkey questioned "Do we need two or three people to read
water meters?" stating many small towns have had to make cuts in order to
survive.
After discussion about wage and hour laws, Recorder Wease continued to
advocate for pay raises. Mayor Blankenship said he had concerns about "doing it
right," indicating the issues will be discussed with the town attorney.
Mayor Blankenship read an ordinance which "clears up" how the council will
operate under the open meetings and Sunshine Law. "We want the public to know
what we're doing, and getting the information out," he said.
During last month's meeting Calhoun Chronicle reporter Lisa Minney declared the
actions of the council "null an void," after the town did not issue an agenda to the Chronicle prior to
the meeting.
Council voted to hire Police Chief Ron Gordon full-time, having completed a
probationary period. The mayor expressed appreciation for the excellent job he is
doing.
* Council approved parking spaces along Main Street for a Wood Festival
fundraiser on October 25, a Poker Run.
* Council gave approval to Charter Cable Company to operate in the town.
* Robert Petrovsky complained that drivers ignore a stop sign on his street, with
Mayor Blankenship advising him that vines covering the sign are being removed.
He also complained about his neighbors property. Mayor Blankenship said he
would soon go to municipal court training, after which ordinances would be
enforced with fines.
* The Mayor reported there had been four water leaks in the system in recent
weeks. He said the town's work days will be on Saturday, October 11 and 18.
"We're always looking for some good volunteers," he said. More asphalt is coming
to fill potholes.
* Town Recorder Jane Wease reported to council members about financial
practices, reports and audits. The council voted to hire an auditor for $3700.
* Grantsville's official Trick or Treat night is October 31, between 6-7 p.m.
* Unresolved problems, including drains and caution light repair discussed.
* An item on the agenda "Discussion on property between Smith's Service Center
and the Grantsville Senior Citizens Center" was not discussed.
The council met in the little courtroom of the courthouse, which Blankenship says
allows for better community participation.
See story elsewhere on The Herald regarding disposition of town property.
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