Farwell council raises total credit-card limit to $10,000, approves disposal of old computers

The Village of Farwell council voted Aug. 18 to increase the village's total credit-card limit to $10,000 and authorized Clerk/Treasurer Ross Wilson to wipe and destroy the municipality's old computers.

Trustee Shawn Burger moved to raise the total credit-card limit while keeping individual card limits unchanged; Trustee Amanda Pfruender seconded. A roll call was taken and the clerk recorded "all yeas," and the motion carried. Later in the meeting, Trustee Amanda Pfruender moved to authorize the clerk to wipe and destroy the village's outdated computers; Trustee Victoria Williams seconded, the clerk again recorded "all yeas," and the motion carried.

Why it matters: Raising the combined card limit changes the village's available short-term purchasing capacity and could affect how the clerk and departments make small purchases or respond to urgent needs. Authorizing disposal of old computers clears equipment no longer needed but also requires secure data-wiping procedures and disposal records, steps the council approved to be handled by the clerk.

In staff reports, Clerk/Treasurer Ross Wilson told the council that new laptops have arrived but cost about $100 more than quoted after a sale ended; online advertisements for the building renovation have been posted; a DWSRF loan closing is scheduled for Aug. 28; audits have been completed and will be submitted to the state by the end of the month; and the clerk will be out of the office Wednesday through Friday. Zoning Officer Timothy Feig presented the zoning report during the staff reports portion of the meeting.

On unfinished business, the council discussed reaching out to tenants at Corning Apartments to negotiate payment arrangements for past-due water and sewer utilities; no formal motion was recorded and staff were directed to pursue contact and possible payment plans. In extended public comment, Commissioner Gross updated the council on Corning Apartments and said the county had no significant new developments to report.

Under new business, Mr. and Mrs. Smith told the council they are interested in purchasing lots in the village's industrial park; the clerk and zoning officer will check whether such sales are permitted under current zoning rules. The council also reviewed the building renovation packet and recorded no changes.

The meeting adjourned at 6:36 PM. The next regular council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 2, at 6:00 PM.