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West Union weighs sewer fees, truck repairs and hires mechanic at $16 an hour
Summary
Village officials discussed raising commercial sewer-dumping fees, estimated dump-truck repairs, the need for additional small plow-capable vehicles, and hired a mechanic (Jerry Hollsinger) at $16/hour despite one council 'no' vote.
Village Administrator Kenny Ferguson told the council the village has accepted roughly 40 loads at the sewer plant since Jan. 1, 2026, and that commercial trucks paying one cent per gallon is unsustainable for chemical purchases. He proposed doubling the rate immediately and asked for an ordinance to codify the change, suggesting an effective date of March 1, 2026.
"A penny a gallon is not getting anything accomplished at the plant," Ferguson said, recommending a rate increase and asking council to ratify an ordinance at the next meeting.
Ferguson also reported a dump truck failure with possible parts costs of about $2,000 (not including labor) and recommended the village consider acquiring two to three smaller trucks that can operate on narrow back streets and serve as plow units. Council asked staff to present quotes and to consider trade-in or sale options.
On personnel, Ferguson recommended hiring Jerry Hollsinger as a mechanic at $16.00 an hour. Council discussed a potential nepotism conflict (Hollsinger is related to an existing employee) and resolved that he would not report directly to his relative. Motion to hire Hollsinger passed by roll call with five yeas and one recorded no vote by Councilmember Donna Young.
Council directed staff to prepare ordinance language to raise sewer dumping rates for formal consideration at the next meeting and asked the administrator to return with vehicle quotes and procurement options.
