The Hamilton City Council meets on the second Tuesday of each month. The following report was generated from the unofficial minutes, which are subject to board approval.
The Hamilton City Council held its regular meeting on Feb. 10 at 6 p.m. The council approved the remaining bills and the amended minutes.
Councilman Larry Walford reported that a proposal had been received to dig a trench behind the city shop to the alley to redirect runoff that is flooding and eroding the shop area. The council requested the site be inspected to determine the best solution. Options discussed included adding gravel to the area and obtaining a written proposal and bid to present at the next meeting.
During the Library report, a possible frozen pipe issue due to a broken vent allowing cold air exposure was reported. A communication issue regarding the reporting of the problem was noted. The council discussed implementing an online reporting form that would notify the City Clerk and Superintendent immediately and also provide a digital report for the Library Board and staff. Maintenance needs were identified and included: replacement of the back door and frame, replacement of the entry flooring and tile and replacement of the pillars. Temporary mitigation measures were discussed and included: visual checks a couple time a month and improving or sealing the back door and foundation vent to prevent further freezing or water issues until permanent repairs are completed.
In new business, an anonymous citizen expressed concerns regarding a potential commercial-scale poultry operation and also livestock within the city limits. The council discussed the possibility of drafting an ordinance addressing livestock zones, capacities and permits. The issue was tabled until the next meeting and council members will bring ideas for consideration.
In old business, the Hamilton Fire Department proposed a potential addition to the fire station. The addition would include extra bays and storage, meeting/training space, a mechanical/gear room and improved vehicle access and clearance. The plan would be to add 40 feet to the north side of the building, leaving 20 feet on the south end for city use. It would include four bay doors facing the west side. It was also noted that Councilman Rodney Dimick would pick up brush gear donated by the Reading Volunteer Fire Department for use by the Hamilton Fire Department.
The council also discussed backup generator options and logistics for the fire building and all city buildings. Generator sizes and costs will be confirmed for both large and small units. A council member will contact a licensed electrician to obtain an installation estimate and availability. Weekly and automated generator testing was noted. It was also noted that Mayor David Harris would contact Johnson Realty regarding items to sell at auction.
The council reviewed a newly drafted ordinance regarding alcohol consumption areas and permits for areas within the city. After discussion, the council opted to continue enforcement under existing Ordinance 281. Mayor Harris will research estimates for standard signs, confirm the number needed, preferred size and material and determine whether hardware is included and if posts require concrete footings. The signage will be placed on all city-owned property to indicate no alcohol consumption and reference the applicable ordinance.
Superintendent Robert Ryan received the sample of rock asphalt and will apply a test patch near the Scout Building. The council reviewed bids for the City Hall roof. Mayor Harris received an estimate of $13,000 to build a pitched roof. Councilman Walford received a contractor bid for replacement and installation of a metal roof. Mayor Harris will follow up with the contractor to request another estimate.
City Clerk Daphne Rayburn received quotes from Coffelt Signs for repair and replacement of the city sign ranging from $4,000 to $13,000. No action was taken. It was noted that the first bill was received from SEK Coop for filling the fuel tank. Superintendent Ryan is keeping a log of the meter every time fuel is added. The council suggested hardwiring the fuel tank to a breaker for easier management.
In the Superintendent Report, Ryan reported a major lead on the mail line between Madison and Hamilton that required immediate attention. The leak resulted in an average loss of 60,000 gallons per day. After repair, water usage was significantly reduced to 3,000 gallons a day.
After discussion, the council opted to pay $20 for the replacement of a water meter after a resident melted it with a torch, due to his contributions to the community.
Superintendent Ryan reported on seasonal staffing requirements for part-time mowing and maintenance of city properties. The council noted the importance of providing clear job descriptions and equipment usage guidelines for any hired help. Ryan also reported
that he will order more rock material as needed.
Councilman Walford addressed a house shed in the city noting the need for inspection of the foundation and skirting work. Superintendent Ryan will confirm compliance with the agreed foundation approach, take photos of the foundation and perimeter and follow up with the owner to ensure completion.
The council approved a $125 credit to John Hudson’s water bill for volunteering labor to assist with the main water leak repair.
The meeting was adjourned.
Special Meeting
The Hamilton City Council also held a Special Meeting on Feb. 24 at 6 p.m. to discuss roof bids, retirement/OPM status and the upcoming wastewater operator certification training.
A motion was made to approve the contractor bid to install an ash-gray roof for $8,800 which includes a $600 discount. $4,400 will be paid up front and the remaining $4,400 will be paid upon completion. Clerk Rayburn will prepare a check for the $4,400 payment at contract signing. Superintendent Ryan will contact the contractor to secure a sloth on the schedule before the March storm season.
Superintendent Ryan provided an update on the retirement/OPM status and the upcoming wastewater operator certification training visit expected in June.
The meeting was adjourned. The next regular meeting of the Hamilton City Council will be held on April 14 at 6 p.m.
