By Don Steen | Staff Writer • [email protected]
The Rockport Common Council met in regular session Thursday, February 13. While the agenda was relatively light, the council chambers were packed with the families of five reserve officers to be sworn in that evening.
Police Chief David Hall introduced Kevin Hazelwood, Triston Harris, Addison Boerner, Alyssa Hines and Alex Reese to the council, and thanked them for volunteering to assist the department and city. He had hoped to bring on three new reserve officers, but was more than happy to have five.
“We’re glad to have you on board with us,” said Hall, adding that he himself started his career as a reserve officer.
Mayor Cathy Kirkpatrick administered the oath and also offered her thanks for their service.
Another major discussion item centered on the stone and wood shelter house outside the Lincoln Pioneer Village. Councilwoman Connie Hargis explained that building has deteriorated, and is not ADA compliant in any case. As a result, some action will need to be taken.
The structure seemingly dates back to the original construction of the village and museum by the Works Progress Administration, which would make it 90 years old or thereabouts. Hargis said the only real evidence of its age comes from the materials found in its construction, which are similar to those used in the older features of the village.
No records of the structure remain, or at least none are available. An addition was apparently made at some point, but most of the structure is original and showing its age. As it is not safe to use, Hargis asked the council seek an engineer’s opinion on how best to handle the issue.
Based on an engineer’s input, the city could then determine whether to repair the shelter, remove it or replace it. The council voted to seek an engineer to assess the structure before determining a path forward.
Another item on the agenda centered on the ongoing construction of the new wastewater treatment plant. Eric Parsley of Commonwealth Engineers presented a change order and pay application related to the project.
Change orders generally entail delays or cost overruns, but this one was good news. Parsley reported about nine changes to the original plan, including substituted materials, different pipe sizes and shifts in location. All told, these alterations brought the overall cost down $179,078. The council approved the change order.
Parsley also presented a pay request for work from December 26 to January 25. That total came to $373,359.42, which the council also approved.
In other businesses
• The council approved a contract with Evapar for preventative maintenance.
• Heard that the city has recovered nearly $1,000 in unpaid bills through state programs so far this year.
• Met with Jon Hargis, who recently took over as Ohio Township Trustee.
• Heard that the new restaurant at 504 Main Street is expected to begin operations by the end of the month.
• The next meeting of the Rockport Common Council will be held at 5 p.m. Thursday, March 13 at city hall.
Featured Image: Rockport Common Council Officers
