Byron council authorizes recruitment for part‑time public works help; discusses meter pit, generator and sewer lagoon

The Byron Town Council on Oct. 14 authorized advertising for a part‑time Public Works Assistant and reviewed several operations and maintenance items raised by staff and the mayor.

Mayor Allan Clark asked whether the town could rehire Charlie McAlhany for limited winter help. Council members noted that Public Works employee Rod Allred is retiring in December and the town will need another sewer‑certified employee to meet state requirements; Councilman Shae Abraham said he was willing to pursue certification. Councilwoman Karma Sanders moved to place an advertisement in the Lovell Chronicle for a part‑time Public Works Assistant to assist with snow removal, emergency callouts and other duties; Councilman Shae Abraham seconded the motion and the council approved it unanimously.

On maintenance items, Mayor Clark said Jared Sanders’s water meter pit is "shot" and needs replacement; council discussed that meter pits are necessary maintenance but did not take a formal vote or record a cost. Mayor Clark also reported that Jacob Gruell recommended buying a generator for town use at an estimated cost of about $1,100; the council was informed but did not vote on the purchase.

On wastewater infrastructure, Mayor Clark said Sewer Lagoon cell 3 has been drained and "is looking great," and the town is awaiting confirmation about when it can be used again.

Why it matters: the ad and staffing discussion respond to an upcoming retirement and state certification requirements for wastewater operations. The council took formal action only to authorize public notice for recruitment; the meter pit replacement, generator purchase and lagoon re‑use will require further administrative steps or funding approvals.

The council did not record budget line approvals for the generator or meter pit during the meeting; costs were described as an estimate or not specified in the minutes.