Palmyra council reviews police grant, utility updates, recycle center needs and authorizes bleachers purchase

Council members used the July 23 meeting to report a range of operational items and to authorize a parks expenditure. Council Member Steve Bland said the police committee was updated on the Blue Shield Grant; the funds will pay for upgraded patrol car radios and rifle plates and support officer training. Chief Mike Baker noted an officer is on light duty and scheduled for an MRI on July 27; Officer Miller is enrolled in a S.T.A.R.T. class and, when certified, will be one of two officers able to teach the program.

Council Member Eddie Kamm reported the Recycle Committee needs a different trailer to store recyclables and repairs to the loading dock; the trailer will be purchased with donated funds while the city will pay for the dock repair. Bland also relayed the Board of Public Works report about inventory procedures, promoting Mark Salter to manager, and wiring a shed by the tennis courts for Palmyra High School. Water/Wastewater Manager Dustin Smith said he will meet with Engineer Geoffrey Thompson on water plant upgrades and that Council Member Rex Thomas is assisting to secure remaining sewer easements in Ward III. Separately, the council authorized Parks & Recreation to spend up to $20,000 from the Lucille Foster Memorial fund on bleachers for Foster Field (motion by Walotka, second by Bland; unanimous). City Clerk Deena Parsons said the council gave consensus to close out the HOMEBANK line of credit immediately.