Administrative Committee Meets

Because of a lack of a quorum, the Administrative Committee of the Trenton City Council was unable to take any action during a meeting on Thursday night, however, there was much discussion on a number of topics.
City Clerk Cindy Simpson said four items discussed on Thursday will be brought up again at the regular city council meeting on Monday night. Those topics include requirement of department heads to attend meetings, fundraisers held at traffic light intersections, mowing of right of way and access to the reservoir at night.
Mrs. Simpson said that while no vote was taken, it was the concensus of the three council members present that department heads should not be required to attend meetings if there is nothing on the agenda in which they are involved. In addition, the council will be asked to allow fundraisers to be conducted in traffic light intersections with stipulations such as a requirement to wear safety vests, etc.
There was also discussion regarding the city’s contract with the Green Hills Animal Shelter, which is up for renewal. Mrs. Simpson said the city attorney is to draw up an ordinance to be presented to the council in July, which would outline the costs associated with the city’s contract. She noted that the shelter is asking for $13 per day to house stray animals for up to five days, which after that time the cost would become the responsibility of the shelter. Once the city uses up the number of days it is alloted under the contract, the daily cost would be increased to $15 per day up to five days.
Mrs. Simpson said there was also discussion about not having stray cats taken to the shelter, noting that nearly half of the city’s cost at the shelter involves cats.
In discussing the mowing of right of ways, it was announced that a mower being used by the city has been taken out of service. A pump is in need of replacement, with the cost being estimated at $10,000 to $12,000. Mrs. Simpson said a decision is to be made regarding either repair or replacement of the unit.
Regarding closure of the reservoir at night, it was suggested that a curfew be set.
Also on the agenda was a discussion on storm sirens, however, that discussion was tabled until councilman Glen Briggs could be present.
Committee members present at the meeting were David Mlika and Allan Quilty, along with councilman Larry Crawford, who is not a member. Absent were members Jennifer Hottes Urich and Briggs.