The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.



La Harpe Council Gives Performance Raise; Hears Reports

By: Michael Rodeffer, The Quill

Police Chief Larry Finch received a performance raise of 3.15%, which raised his annual salary to $42,500 effective August 2, 2019.

IMEG Representative, Megan Crook informed the council that Lynn Armstrong had emailed her and interest rates from USDA have dropped which would save the city approximately $6,500 per year.

"Over the 40 year life of the loan that would be a significant amount of money saved," Crook said.

Crook also informed the council that the second water well being drilled was at 740 feet.

Mayor Hasten-Reed was concerned about the discolored blocks on the new building, and Crook reported that the diesel soot from the engine on the drilling rig was causing the problem, but that it should be able to be cleaned off after the drilling is done.

Dave Clover asked if the new fire hydrants or old hydrants should be used. Crook said if the new hydrants don't have bags over them the new hydrants should be used in case of an emergency.

Water Superintendent Tim Graves reported the copper sulfate did a really good job at the reservoir and the city should probably get some more as it should be treated again in the future.

Randy Shumaker reported a mole problem at the cemetery and also the city's 3/4 ton pick up was at a repair shop to diagnose the truck's problem.

Police Chief Larry Finch has gotten ammunition so the police staff can be requalified.

The council set a committee meeting for August 5th at 6 p.m. to discuss hiring a city treasurer. Applications for the treasurer's position need to be in prior to meeting. (see advertisement on page 3).

The council heard from Belynda Allen, new executive director for Hancock County Economic Development. Allen explained she would like to start a county wide plan and also was willing to help with any individual plans the city has.

In other action the council unanimously approved:

Attending were council members: Kelly Harkey, Randy Shumaker, Greg Wisslead, Brian Covert, Dave Clover and Jerry Burford. Also, Mayor Kat Hasten-Reed, Clerk Lucretia McPeak, Treasurer Maggie Link, City Attorney Chris Scholz, Employees Tim and Monalisa Graves, Police Chief Larry Finch, and the IMEG Representative Megan Crook, HCED Executive Director Belynda Allen and The Quill Reporter Michael Rodeffer.