Galena council approves routine business, honors public works and recognizes pool staff for lifesaving

At its June 8 meeting the Galena City Council approved the consent agenda and warrants, heard brief alderperson remarks, received administrative updates and proposed commendations for pool staff who assisted in rescuing a young child.

Consent and warrants: The council moved and approved the consent agenda (CA-26-11) and the warrants (26C-0249) by roll call without substantive discussion on individual items.

Alderperson comments: Alderperson Roger Gates congratulated public works for winning a Galena Country Tourism award for outstanding public works performance. Several alderpersons raised concerns about an increase in delinquent hotel food-and-beverage tax accounts (reported as 30, up from nine last month) and urged stronger enforcement; others urged more consistent zoning enforcement for overgrown grass and suggested community activities for the city's 200th anniversary, such as a fire-hydrant painting contest.

City Administrator report: City Administrator Matt told the council that auditors Wipfli will begin fieldwork on June 23 for the annual audit; swimming lessons are underway; the pool received a $2,240 grant from the county fair for CPR mannequins to support lifeguard training; IDOT expects to pour bridge concrete by the end of the week, and July 4 parade sign-ups are open. Matt also said goats will be used in the wooded area behind the dog park to clear invasive species.

Mayor's remarks and lifesaving commendation: The mayor praised public works and said the council would send letters of commendation to two pool employees who rescued a 3-year-old who drifted into deep water; the meeting transcript names Graham Miller as one of the employees involved.

Adjournment: The meeting adjourned after routine closing roll-call votes.