LOSAP program granted final approval
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By Jeff Snyder
MOUNT AYR, Iowa — The Mount Ayr City Council conducted its regularly scheduled meeting on Monday and addressed several housekeeping issues.
During the meeting a number of housekeeping issues were discussed and decided upon by council. Chief among them was the council’s final approval of the Mount Ayr Fire Department’s Length of Service Award Program. Fire Chief Mike Wimer presented a formal document outlining the parameters for inclusion into the program including meeting attendance, training session attendance and a number of other requirements by the volunteers. The council unanimously approved the program to move forward.
In other fire department related news, Wimer went on to discuss the finding of a meeting held with department personnel as it relates to the proposed replacement of a fire truck. Wimer explained to the council the logistics around an immediate order for a new truck and what impact it would have on the department’s budgets in the next few years. According to Wimer, purchasing a fire truck is a long process that can take a number of years before delivery of new equipment.
He went on to explain that while one of the trucks the department currently owns is a year 2000 model, it is essentially a good piece of equipment but needs updating to enable peak performance. The department is considering investing in this truck in the mean time which will enable the department more time to accumulate the necessary budget to place an order for a new piece of equipment. By waiting, the department will be able to accumulate a larger down payment on new equipment thereby lowering the monthly obligation on the department’s operating budget. Wimer also went on to outline upcoming expenses for the replacement of “bunker gear” which will be needed in the future. Bunker gear is the protective clothing and safety equipment worn by fire fighters when they answer a call. The specialized gear includes multi-layered coats, pants, helmets, boots and gloves. This equipment typically has three layers of protection including flame retardant outer shells a moisture barrier and a thermal lining. Careful planning and budget management is critical to equipping the firefighters with the proper gear.
City Administrator Brent Wise formally informed the council of the impending resignation of Brandy Anderson as city clerk. With regrets and best wishes, the council accepted Anderson’s resignation and went on to discuss their short term options. Anderson has agreed to stay on with the city on a temporary basis until such time that a replacement can be identified. The council also agreed to enter into a short-term agreement with Jodie Geist, the former executive director of Ringgold County Development to assist at city hall. Geist holds significant experience with grant management and community file organization which will be invaluable experience as the city looks to replace Anderson.
The city also agreed on a public hearing date to discuss a general obligation loan for further city improvements. The meeting date was set for March 23 with times yet to be established.
The council was also briefed on the progress of the tree removal project currently underway with removal at the Loch Ayr facility being one of the last completion targets.
