The Marysville City Council met Monday. An informal request from City Convention and Tourism was approved to proceed with activities in the City Park on Sunday evening, August 20th. Many visitors are expected to stay over for Mondays total solar eclipse, with the primary track passing just north of the state line. Overflow hotel booking is already evident, with everything in Beatrice completely booked.
The mayor touched on 11th Road improvement possibilities. The council is considering seeking resident input regards paving 11th Road, and it was suggested that Keystone east to 11th Terrace be included. Clarification as to whether non-city resident properties can be included in a tax district will be sought. Total cost of paving those sections could run upwards of $1.5 million.
Council approved spending $4,500 upfront, and $1,250 annually for a firm to compile city codes online, and in book form. Those would be updated annually.
Some discussion arose regarding a bill for over $5,000 for repainting and repairing a 1996 model pickup, used by the city sewer and water department. Concern was raised that the City Administrator had not first approved the expenditure. The matter was to be clarified.
Unanimous approval was given to spend just short of $40,000 to run a three-phase electric line to a city water well. The phase converter needs to be replaced, and would cost well over $10,000 to repair, with a life expectancy less than ten years. The line extension will be a permanent solution.
The City Administrator reported that revenues were up slightly, around $1,000, while expenses were around $23,000 over budget. Efforts are being undertaken to reduce expenditures. The mayor asked for an update on projects to be funded through the city sales tax. A major item is the upcoming overlay of U.S. Highway 36, which will be reimbursed in part by a state grant. City sales tax revenues have been lagging year ago numbers in recent months.
Council discussed adding enforcement provisions to properties cited for nuisance violations. Concern with yard pickup, and mowing this spring were emphasized. The mayor pointed out a need to be consistent and fair in identifying violations, and will visit with the Police Chief about having them assist in the effort.
It was noted that next week is city cleanup week in Marysville. Yard waste and debris may be left curbside for free pickup. This applies only to yard waste, and not other trash.
