By Julie Johansen
Mayor Gary Petty opened the recent Emery Town Council meeting by asking if there were any citizens in the audience that had complaints. “Barking dogs!” was the answer. The mayor replied that they were reviewing the ordinance. He has spoken to the sheriff’s office and would get the Emery Town ordinance on file with them. The mayor reminded citizens that the first infraction would be a written letter about the offense, but the second one would be handled by the county sheriff’s office with a required response to the Justice of the Peace.
After three fires set in small dumpsters in town, the small dumpsters have been removed and the larger ones moved to a place above the cattle guard. A chain link fence will be installed on three sides to help with the littering problem caused when dumping in these larger dumpsters. The fence will cost Emery Town $1,205 and will be six feet high.
The Emery Town Council took a closer look at the cell tower agreement and discussion followed. It was decided to keep the lease agreement, as it generates $1,000 in revenue per month, which helps the city operate. A payout would not be advantageous to the city. T-Mobile is being installed on the already existing tower, which should add an additional $400.
Consideration was given to the situation that occurred recently when there was no communication services in Emery Town as well as no electricity for a period of several hours. Emergency plans, including staffing the city hall with radios, was discussed. A member of the council also shared that the batteries for the firemen radios need replacing. The Mayor authorized the purchase the battery pack.
Mayor Petty then asked each council member for their goals and objectives for 2018.
Councilman Brendon Jones presented a checklist of requirements for obtaining a building permit. He also announced a meeting regarding the pipeline project west of town.
Councilwoman Carrie Childs stated that the restrooms at the ball park need painting. The council decided to ask a youth group to do the painting and the town would purchase the paint.
Councilwoman Shalayne Christiansen reported that the town’s fundraising ball was a success, raising nearly $1,800. Two citizens have requested a desire to serve as EMTs and the city will pay their training fees totaled at $1,000.
Councilwoman Laura Riddle stated that she is looking closely at the annual 24th of July celebration. Her desire is to enlarge all of the parts of the celebration, including vendors, parades and games, especially for the teenage participants. She is also considering the best dates for the activities. She reported that she has asked Corinne Dalton to chair the annual Easter egg hunt.