The council voted to proceed with burying an aboveground propane tank near the old schoolhouse and to contract with Appalachian Propane to perform the work. Council members discussed competing estimates: burying the tank was presented as roughly $4,000 while building a masonry wall around it was quoted at about $8,000. The mayor said burying the tank would allow the town to pursue other aesthetic improvements around the schoolhouse.

The council also approved an additional installation cap of up to $1,200 to cover installation-related costs that were not in the base quote. The mayor said Amanda had gathered several estimates and that the working group had discussed cheaper excavation options. The council voted on the burying option and on the $1,200 installation cap; transcript indicates both items were resolved during the meeting.

Discussion and decision: Council members asked questions about line items and installation charges; the mayor and staff clarified that the $4,000 figure covered the tank and that the $1,200 would cover installation expenses. A motion to proceed with Appalachian Propane to bury the tank for about $4,000 was made and a separate motion to approve up to $1,200 for installation costs was also approved.

Background: The tank sits by the old elementary school area; the council considered burying it versus building a wall to screen it. Councilors emphasized the town’s interest in improving the schoolhouse area for businesses and visitors.

Next steps: Staff will finalize the contract with Appalachian Propane and confirm excavation and installation details; council directed staff to follow up with more precise estimates and to return if additional funds are needed.