The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
By: Michael Rodeffer, The Quill
At the regular meeting on April 11th, 2022, the La Harpe City Council unanimously approved the first payment for the USDA Rural Development Loan of $4,000,800 for the new water plant. The principal amount was $76,000 and the interest payment was $35,070.
The La Harpe Council also approved paying the $6,649.29 invoice from IMEG Engineering.
The La Harpe Council also unanimously approved renewing the liquor license for Casey’s, R & M Market, and The Bar. The gaming license for the “The Bar” was also unanimously approved.
The La Harpe Council approved buying a “probe” for the lift station on Archer Street for approximately $1,000.
Council member Dave Clover brought quotes for purchasing two new flag poles at the North and East berms at the edge of town. The two flag poles, which have been at the berms, have been bent over and broken. The La Harpe Council approved the purchase of two (2) flag poles for a cost or $475 each.
Water Superintendent Tim Graves noted there are three houses in town with lead pipe service from water meters to the houses.
La Harpe Council approved removing the lead pipes and replacing the lines.
La Harpe Council approved the treasurer’s report and paying of bills and also approved the March minutes.
Council discussed the All-Call System and they want residents feed back to know if anyone in town is interested in getting alerts from the city. Letters are to be sent out with water bills explaining the different alerts which can be sent out.
Water Superintendent Tim Graves informed the council that the motor from the lift station which had been sent in for repair was going to be fixed and was still under warranty.
Graves informed the council that EPA wants the lagoon at the reservoir dug up and sludge removed.
IMEG Engineer Jack Kusek told the council that the engineering firm had permits for the lagoon but EPA is now back-pedaling and not wanting to honor the permits.
Kusek said he is to have a conference call with the EPA Wednesday to discuss the situation.
Council adjourned the regular meeting and with into executive session at 8:30 p.m. to discuss the contract dispute with Trotter Construction.
No action was taken following the executive session.
Present were: Mayor Katherine Hasten-Reed; Treasurer Monalisa Graves; Clerk Lucretia McPeak; Attorney Chris Scholz; Council members, Kelly Harkey, Deanna Stambaugh, randy Shumaker, Greg Wisslead, and Dave Clover; Police Chief Larry Finch, Police Officer Scott Rossen; Water Superintendent Tim Graves; City Employees, Trevor Finch, David Little; IMEG Representatives Jack Kusek and Megan Crook; and guests Jim and Sharla Lenix, Dan Gillett and Michael Rodeffer.