NORTH MANCHESTER - Finishing touches are being put on North Manchester's water tower.

Town manager Dan Hannaford informed town council members Wednesday that crews working on the tower will be "putting the cap on the water tower" today. And, if weather permits, the water tower also will be painted today. Hannaford said "a very good crew" is working on the tower and so far, they've done an excellent job. Progress with the water tower is moving along a lot quicker than expected, he said.

In other business:

• Brian Wagner from the parks and recreation department said last month the Firehouse "went so well this summer." He said Wednesday: "so far it's going well."

The Firehouse is a place for all ages to hang out, enjoy free, live music from local bands and sip coffee drinks from local coffee vendor Java Jasons. The Firehouse, on Main Street, is in the old fire station and is operated by Zach Hawkins, 18, and Josh White, 19, Manchester High School graduates.

Wagoner said Wednesday steps are being taken to closely involve the community with the Firehouse.

Board member Warren Garner asked Wagoner what age groups went to the Firehouse.

"They do have some diversity there," Wagoner said. "(It's) more the upper three classes (at MHS)."

"That's comforting," Garner said.

Wagoner said the Firehouse is trying to involve everyone from the high school.

Garner was concerned about attendance at the Firehouse. He said if only seniors were attending this year, would the Firehouse be in trouble next year? Wagoner put his concerns to rest.

Councilmen approved a lease extension for the Firehouse through August 2001 at last month's board meeting.

• Town manager Dan Hannaford said fall cleanup is scheduled for Oct. 20 and 21.

"Things are to be taken to the street department," said Don Rinearson, council president. "There will be no pickup."

Tires, appliances and other items will be accepted.

Leaf pickup is set for Oct. 30 and hydrant flushing will be Monday.

• Board member Karl Merritt reported the Board of Zoning Appeals met recently and did not have a quorum. Merritt said the BZA will meet Monday.

The North Manchester Town Council comprises: president Don Rinearson, vice president Stan Escott, clerk-treasurer Nancy Reed, town manager Dan Hannaford, public works superintendent John Mugford, Karl Merritt, Warren Garner, Charles Tiede and Bill Hix. [[In-content Ad]]