by Mari Radtke
Luke Hughes spoke briefly at the Monday December 1 Paullina Council meeting. He explained that he has hired Tim Rohrbaugh, an O’Brien County Deputy as a part time officer. It is unknown if Rohrbaugh will patrol in a city police vehicle or if he will be allowed to use a county vehicle for patrolling. Rohrbaugh’s wage is $35 per hour. Also secured to support the police department is Thomas Nelson as a reserve officer a around $30 per hour. Nelson has served as a reserve officer in Rock Valley. Hughes said he would like one more part time officer. There was no discussion of about a long talked about joint police force with Calumet and Sutherland. Hughes reported that he is currently inventorying and assessing equipment and identifying department needs. City Clerk Michelle Wilson said the department is budgeted for 2 full time officers including the chief. Resolutions for the hiring were passed by Council.
Council approved renewal of the health insurance policy with no changes. The employee benefits fund has a balance of approximately $300,000. Councilman Dennis Werkmeister if that fund is used to pay for employee benefits. Wilson was not certain but did say that tax dollars could not be used to pay for wages or benefits from proprietary activity such as water, sewer or electric.
Budget meetings dates were set and the council adjourned.