1) Presented the October Community Enhancement Award to Shenandoah Heritage Center for improvements to Stevens Cottage. The group raised money and put down a new porch floor, handicap ramp, new swing, and roof shingles. The cottage was built in 1890 and the members do a great job of preserving this historic structure. Nancy Karnes accepted the award on behalf of the Heritage members.
2) Requested the Treasurer research options for long term investments in order for the Town to save for the future needs.
3) Tabled action on the new Hybrid Retirement Plan for employees who need disability insurance. The Treasurer is researching the best option for the Town.
4) Received the August 2013 Town Vehicle Gasoline Log for review.
5) Received an invitation to the Chambers 87th Annual Banquet, which will be held on November 7th at the Mimslyn Inn. The Town was also requested to submit nominations for the annual awards for businesses and volunteers.
6) Heard residents living on Williams Avenue were informed by letter of the timeline for the installation of a new water line along their street.
7) Heard the Absolute Auction is scheduled for October 25th at Forest Knolls Subdivision. The auction brochures indicate the new owner would be responsible for finishing the streets prior to future construction.
8) Heard the closing on the Genie Plant was delayed due to the owners not being able to find the most current survey documents. The documents were located and now the closing has been rescheduled.
9) Requested a work order to patch the street at the intersection of Denver Avenue and Seventh Street.
10) Heard new employee T.A. Pendleton, III obtained his Commercial Drivers License and will be able to drive the dump truck and assist with snow removal this winter. Obtaining his CDL was a condition of employment and he will be eligible for a $1,000 a year salary increase.
11) Parks and Recreation News: Christmas Tree lighting ceremony is scheduled for December 14th at 6 p.m. at Big Gem Park and the Shenandoah Beautification Committee (SBC) has agreed to purchase a live Christmas tree and have it planted prior to this event. Council agreed the public works department will water the tree, string the lights on the tree and the fence at the park and then SBC will finish decorating the tree, gazebo, and fence with in memory or honor bows for this event.
12) Heard the 10th Street Well pump has been installed and is now up and running.
13) Heard the new sewer hydro jetter machine has arrived and once employees are trained in its use on Thursday, it will be put into operation. The Town previously had to obtain assistance from the Town of Elkton for major sewer clogs.
14) Council discussed the need for a Town museum, but noted funding is not currently available to purchase and renovate any structures for this use.
15) Brenda Merica announced her write-in campaign for 5th District Board of Supervisor Member. Dorothy Pendley is on the ballot for this position too.
16) James Eppard expressed concern a neighbor has vehicles parked in an alley that would prevent emergency vehicles from responding in this area and he noted the vehicles also block other property owners from using this alley. Council agreed to have the police department review this matter for the appropriate action.
