The Sutherland Fire Department has been working on the purchase of a ladder truck since January. In February a ladder truck was found for $55,000 in Connecticut. Mark Shriver, Fire Chief was requesting permission from council to purchase the truck if it passed inspection that was granted.
In May, word came to council from Shriver that the title for the ladder truck could not be found. No inspection had been done at this point. Shriver reported in June that the ladder truck project had been put on hold. The 2023 fiscal year budget would have to be amended to include a truck purchase.
Chief Shriver was attending to a fallen tree blocking traffic on E 4th Street following a strong windstorm that took out power to a wide area in O’Brien County. He provided City Clerk Amanda Vander Hof with pertinent information. The title for the ladder truck had been located, but the truck did not pass certification and no quote for necessary repairs was immediately available. Council directed the fire department to get a quote for repairs and to continue to look for other options.
The City of Sutherland’s budget exceeded $1 million. That amount triggers audit requirements. Council received 2 bids for the work.
A $1 per hour raise for all city employees was approved, and a new, 5-year contract with Town and Country Disposal was approved. The new contract includes a 3% per year increase. Council is not increasing rates this year.
A grant was authorized for submission to IDOT. Council is interested in purchasing portable or solar speed limit signs.
The police report was given by Adam McQueen, newly selected police officer for the City of Sutherland. Much of the discussion centered on proper equipment and radio equipment, including a body cam and mic. McQueen reported he is doing ride-alongs with Paullina Police Officer Trenton Morton. McQueen is also being trained on the use of a breathalyzer. McQueen is slated to attend the academy in August.