Trustees debate hydrant-painting cycle; board approves 10-year maintenance schedule

The Village Board debated whether to extend the fire-hydrant repainting cycle after trustees and residents questioned whether modern paints last longer. After discussion about paint longevity and public-safety considerations, the board approved the item and conducted a roll-call vote.

A trustee said the village should look for opportunities to reduce residents' fixed utility bills and voiced opposition to the resolution, saying, "I've been paying a village bill for my dad's property in Pressbury and the base bill is over $50 ... That's why I'm opposed to passing this resolution." That trustee argued the village should cut costs where possible, including repainting less often if paints now last longer.

Other trustees and staff pushed back on cutting maintenance of safety equipment. One trustee said, "I don't think we should pinch pennies when it comes to safety and making sure that the fire hydrants work. So I'm good with the spending money on it." Public works staff (name not provided) said the contractor uses a two-part epoxy paint, describing it as a durable system: "The paint that our contractor uses is a 2 part epoxy." Another trustee noted anecdotal improvements in paint performance at the public works facility and on hydrants.

After discussion, a motion to approve the maintenance cycle was made and seconded; the board called a roll and record shows affirmative votes during roll call (the transcript records "Aye. Trustee Lundy?" and individual "Aye" responses). Exact vote tallies and the full roll-call list were not fully captured in the excerpt provided. Staff and trustees also requested research into newer epoxy products and possible cost differentials so the village can reevaluate the schedule in the future.

The decision formalizes the village's 10-year maintenance cycle for hydrant painting but trustees asked staff to return with information on alternative paints and costs before the next cycle.