MENTONE – Town Council quickly dispatched a list of business items at its monthly meeting Monday night. A public hearing on next year’s budget was held at 6 p.m., prior to the regular meeting. No member of the public was present. Council presented the advertised budget of $409,746, an amount reduced by the state $35,500 from its estimated $445,246 number. Items reduced include hydrant rental, sidewalk and curbing and new equipment. The cumulative capital improvement fund was decreased by $1,314. The regular meeting followed, with President Tim Croy, council member Jill Gross and town clerk-treasurer Barb Ross. Councilwoman Shelley Krueger was absent. Council welcomed new police reserve Bryce Good. In new business, they waived the a hydrant rental payment; transferred $5,000 from the Economic Development Income Tax fund’s storm water fund into the water fund; and approved a $25 charge to reserve the park. Previously, residents were charged a $25 fee if they requested electricity to be available. Now everyone will be charged $25 and electricity will be provided. In other business, council: • Was informed hydrant flushing is scheduled for Sunday and Monday. • Heard that a garden tractor swap meet will be all day Friday and Saturday at Mentzer Memorial Park. • Approved an executive session for 6 p.m. Sept. 25. The budget adoption meeting is set for 6 p.m. Oct. 6, prior to the regular meeting.
