Staff writer
At a public hearing Dec. 27, Peabody City Council approved amending the 2012 budget due to expenses exceeding the budget. After the public hearing, the regular council meeting got under way and the council wrapped up year-end issues. They also said goodbye to City Administrator Mac Manning, who retired from his position.
Manning said he enjoyed the three years he served as city administrator and appreciated the council’s leadership. He was presented with a plaque of appreciation for his service by Mayor Larry Larsen.
The council approved a resolution to change the city employees’ personal time off policy, removing a clause that allowed the employee to either take the time off or receive cash for the unused hours.
The new policy will allow each full-time employee to accumulate up to 240 hours of personal time, accrued year-to-year, with the option of receiving one-half of the unused accumulated time in a separation benefit at retirement, figured at the employee’s prevailing wage or salary.
In other business:
- The council approved an extension to Jan. 15 for Matt Garcia, 601 N. Olive St., to move an inoperable vehicle. Garcia has sold the vehicle and is working with the new owner to get it moved to a residence outside the city limits.
- No action was taken following discussion of a request to put a handicap parking spot in front of the new location of Pop’s Diner at 119 N. Walnut. Police Chief Bruce Burke reported that the current allotment of handicap spaces is more than adequate for the legal ratio required by the Americans with Disabilities Act.
- Manning reported that Waste Connections will increase its rates 25 cents a month.
- Manning also reported there has been discussion among city administrators about city employees carrying weapons to work. He told the council that to do so is legal and does not require a “concealed carry” license. He advised them the issue was something to think about as it will likely come up in the future.
- Council members approved a request by Burke for an upgrade to the police department computer system that will include a laptop computer for the court clerk. The money will come from the Police Department diversion fund.
- The council also approved replacement of the light bar and switch box on the 2010 police car and the siren driver on the 2005 police car. Funds for these items also will come from the Police Department diversion fund.
- No action was taken when the council returned to open meeting following an executive session to discuss personnel.
The next Peabody City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Jan. 14 in the City Building.