Afton updates: South Afton water-line finished; maintenance building bid awarded; public works ready for winter

Sunrise Engineering representative Jason Linford told the council the South Afton Water Line Extension project is complete, as-built plans were submitted and relocated pressure-reducing valves are functioning properly. Linford also said the bid for a new maintenance storage building was awarded to Munger Mountain Construction; a notice to proceed will be issued with an anticipated completion by spring 2017. He noted the Transportation Alternatives Program has funds available for pathway projects if the town chooses to apply.

Director of Public Works Joshua Peavler reported the department is preparing snow-removal equipment and is repairing older equipment for winter. He said crews recently completed an emergency cleanup of broken tree branches after a winter storm and updated the council on road repairs in Swift Creek Canyon, noting the Forest Service has cut trees back from the roadway.

Golf Course Director Bryce Burton said staff are applying fungicide to winterize the course, have winterized the water system and stored golf carts; the council agreed to keep season golf passes at $200 to preserve municipal affordability.

Officer Tyler Banta briefed the council on recent arrests and incidents, said the Star Valley Temple dedication and the Cultural Celebration proceeded with minimal problems, and said the department will begin advising residents who park in the right-of-way during evening hours that vehicles must be moved for snow removal. Banta also discussed state statutes pertaining to electronic smoking devices.

The council approved routine bills and transfers for the period ending Oct. 31, 2016, and heard that a new police chief is scheduled to begin employment in December 2016.