The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
by Michael Rodeffer, The Quill
The La Harpe City Council met Monday, January 27th and unanimously approved the $11,500 bid per year from Jamie Hallowell for a 2 year cemetery mowing contract.
Another bid had also been received for the same amount from Broc Richardson. The council decided on Hallowell since he had been doing it and they had been pleased with his work.
The council also discussed a contract for baling hay at the cemetery. Bids will be accepted until February 21st. Check the ad for specifics on bidding in this week's Quill.
The treasurer's report and paying of the bills were approved.
Councilman Brian Covert told the council the Ford police vehicle had shucked out the transfer case, but that it was under warranty. Covert also said he knew of someone who had offered to write grant requests for police cars. He was asked if there would be a charge for the service and Covert said he would find out.
Councilman Dave Clover told the council that some people had been complaining about their water bills to water bill collector, Ashley Johnson. Clover wished to express that Ashley Johnson is not the complaint department and he wanted people to know that. Clover stated the city does not want to lose their collector and to please call your alderman if you have a complaint.
Randy Shumaker brought up the fact that at least 6 water bills in December ended being paid late which resulted in $10 late fees due to choosing online bill pay or mailing their payment.
The council's consensus was, if you choose these options to pay and the money doesn't show up on time you would just have to stand the late fee.
Other options to pay by paying the water bill collector or dropping payment in the drop box by city hall are available to eliminate the late fee.
A motion was made to refund the late fee, and all six council members voted no.
Meeting was adjourned at 8:13 p.m. '
Present were Mayor Kat Hasten-Reed, council members Dave Clover, Jerry Burford, Kelly Harkey, Randy Shumaker, Greg Wisslead, and Brian Covert.
Also present were Clerk Lucretia McPeak, Treasurer Monalisa Graves, attorney Chris Scholz, Police Chief Larry Finch, employees Trevor Finch and David Little, Jamie Hallowell, Dan Gillett and Michael Rodeffer.