Archive Minutes

Minutes

December 18, 2007

The meeting was called to order Tuesday, December 18 at 7:00 p.m. in Council Chambers at Town Hall, Athens, West Virginia. Council members present were: Mayor Richardson, Bard, Manzo, McKinley, and Smith.

Minutes from the December 4, 2007 Council meeting were read and approved as presented.

The Agenda was approved as presented.

Citizen Input:

* No citizens were present.

Town Employee Reports:

* No Town employee reports.

Old Business:

* Chapter III revision. Continued until January 15, 2008.
* Safe Route to Schools grant and initiative. Progress continues.
* Sidewalk construction update. No update.
* Building permit violations. The Mayor followed up with concerns over possible violations and miscommunication.
* CR 7 curve/Springs Road report. The Mayor reported that he wrote a letter to the State Road (DOH) expressing our concern over the State Road’s lack of follow-up after Council’s meeting with them. He further requested that the State Road give priority to the CR 7 curve/Springs Road project.
* Municipal Judge Position. Mayor Richardson spoke with Athens resident, Greg Ball, concerning Greg Ball’s appointment as Athens Municipal Judge. On a motion by council member Manzo, seconded by Council member Smith, Council appointed Greg Ball to the position of Municipal Judge, at a yearly salary of $200.
* Town cleanup report. Discussion continued regarding the proposed April town cleanup. Council agreed to not have hanging baskets and to investigate use of other materials making mulch beds a smaller size.
* Chipper rental to provide mulch for park playground. Council member Bard reported on the cost to rent a chipper, $170 per day. Council member Bard agreed to further investigate the rental and use of the chipper in supplying mulch for the park playground.
* Holiday lights. Council members expressed that they were pleased with the holiday lights and that residents have commented they like the three that were hung this year. The plans are to have twenty-one next year and to investigate using different lights than used this year. Council member Smith made a motion, seconded by Council member Manzo, to request the town recorder to draft a resolution thanking Custom Manufacturing Service (CMS) for their efforts in providing the lights for our town.

New Business:

* No new business was brought before Council.

Other Business/Mayoral Report/Council Member Input:

* Mayor Richardson presented, and Council reviewed, revenue, expense, and bank balance reports.

Approval of Current Bills:

* Bills were reviewed by Council and approved on a motion made by Council member McKinley and seconded by Council member Smith.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:40 p.m.

_____________________________________ ____________________________________

Robert M. Richardson, Jr., Mayor John David Smith, Recorder pro tem for

Mary Lu Geiger, Town Recorder

Minutes

November 20, 2007

Recorder Mary Lu Geiger, called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Council members present were: Bard, Geiger, Hodges, and McKinley. Manzo, Richardson and Smith were absent

The minutes of the November 6, 2007 meeting were approved as corrected on a motion by McKinley and second by Bard. There are to be 21 lights not 22 as the minutes stated. The term electricity to the poles is not accurate; the minutes should have stated electrical connections to the poles.

Several items were added to the agenda. Christmas lights were added under Old Business. A new municipal judge, NIE by the Bluefield Daily Telegraph, January 1, 2008 meeting and a letter from Mark Parsell, Town Maintenance Supervisor, stating suspected Ordinance violations were added under New Business..

Citizen Input:

* No citizens were present with business for the Council.

Employee reports:

* There were no employee reports.

Old Business

* Contracts were signed for completion of the Sidewalk project but the contractor has some business issues to settle before the work can begin.
* Kathy Ball, Carol Bard, Michell Berkey, Dr. Eloise Elliott and another person from her office met about student involvement. Elliott will follow the grant process and be certain that we are doing as we should.
* The ordinance revisions of Chapter II Article 203.05, 209.03, 209.05, and 209.06 were approved on a second reading moved by Bard, seconded by Hodges and approved by Council. As stated at the last meeting, violation of these ordinances will be found in Chapter I, Article 117.
* Bard moved that we send the Barking Dog letter as corrected with a second by Hodges and passed by council. A copy of the letter is attached to these minutes.
* Michael Sizemore, Town Sewer Plant Operator, had a Town Christmas wired for approval of the Council. Hodges moved to accept the Sizemore plan on alternating lights with green on one tree and multi-color on another for demonstration. Bard seconded the motion which passed. Sizemore will attempt to get four lights completed this holiday season. Geiger will contact Sizemore with the go ahead.
* Chapter II ordinances were revised on a first reading for final approval at the next Council meeting. 209.06 was reworded to read-Any violation of these ordinances will be considered a misdemeanor and punishable by a fine of $50 to $1000, not withstanding any other provisions of this code. 209.05 was changed to replace kill with impound, in reference to vicious dogs.
* Ordinances, Chapter III, Garbage, Trash and other Waste is presently on hold.

New Business:

* Bard, Dr. Elizabeth Blatt and Geiger met about the construction of the New Town Hall which will be coordinated with Building a Community. This spring’s clean-up project will be the Town Park which incidentally is ten years old. Other projects will be added as they become available. Suggested members of the Selection Committee to choose architects are: Danny Ray Alvis, Galen Griffee, Dr. Elizabeth Blatt, Bard, Geiger, and any interested Council member.
* Greg Ball has agreed to serve the Town as Municipal Judge. The consensus of Council members present was to approve Ball as judge. Further discussion will be held at the next Council meeting in December.
* January 1, 2008, the first Council meeting of the month will be cancelled as per Council agreement. Geiger, McKinley, Richardson or Smith will peruse the bills. Council will accept the decision of two of the above individuals.
* Council discussed the letter from Parsell concerning possible Ordinance violations. The mayor will be asked to write a letter requesting a permanent foundation under the structure on South State Street. When the building permit was issued, a permanent foundation was listed as a requirement. All the other issues were deferred to the next meeting on December 4, 2007.
* All Council members present do not wish to participate in the NIE, Newspapers in Education, project suggested by the Bluefield Daily Telegraph newspaper.

Other Business/Mayoral Report/Council Member input

* Hodges asked that Council revisit the traffic situation on the Springs Road. There have been more accidents as well as damage to the guard rails and signage in the area.
* Hodges also would like further information concerning fire hydrants in Monticello. The question is can we place one close to the housing development entrance.
* Council members received copies of the October Revenues and Expenses by Fund report, and the October bank balances.

McKinley made the motion to approve the bills. Geiger seconded the motion which carried.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:47 p.m.

_______________________________________ __________________________________

Robert M. Richardson, Jr. Mayor Mary Lu Geiger, Recorder

Minutes

November 6, 2007

Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. Council members present were: Bard, Geiger, Hodges, Manzo, McKinley, Smith, and Richardson. Lorraine Justice, a Concord University student completing class requirements, was also present.

The minutes of the October 16, 2007 meeting were approved on a motion by Hodges and second by Manzo.

The agenda was approved as printed.

Citizen Input:

* No citizens were present with business for the Council.

Employee reports:

* Officer Urps presented his monthly report for October. He answered all Council questions. A copy of his report is attached to these minutes.

Old Business

* Contracts were to have been prepared for signature for completion of the Sidewalk project but none were received.
* Michell Berkey has prepared a note for the monthly Athens School newsletter concerning SRTS.
* No further information has been received concerning the incorporation of the west end of West Concord Street.
* No further word has been received from the PSC concerning the Old Athens Road water request.
* A letter to all Town residents about barking dogs and excrement on sidewalks will be held until completion of Ordinance Revision.
* Chapter II ordinances were revised on a first reading for final approval at the next Council meeting. 209.06 was reworded to read-Any violation of these ordinances will be considered a misdemeanor and punishable by a fine of $50 to $1000, not withstanding any other provisions of this code. 209.05 was changed to replace kill with impound, in reference to vicious dogs.
* Ordinances, Chapter III, Garbage, Trash and other Waste is presently on hold.

New Business:

* There was no new business.

Other Business/Mayoral Report/Council Member input

* Hodges reported that (22) 21 Christmas lights, Christmas trees, are near completion. Tim Pike presented a sample of the completed light. Hodges will check on proper lights for the Christmas lights. Apparently (lighting) electrical connections will cost approximately $100 per pole. Wattage per pole is needed before a contract can be made. The Athens Womans Club and The Athens Lions Club plan to help financially with this cost.

McKinley made the motion to approve the bills. Geiger seconded the motion which carried.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 p.m.

_______________________________________ __________________________________

Robert M. Richardson, Jr. Mayor Mary Lu Geiger, Recorder

Minutes

October 16, 2007

Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. Council members present were: Geiger, Hodges, Manzo, McKinley, Smith, and Richardson. Bard was absent.

The minutes of the October 2, 2007 meeting were approved as corrected on a motion by Hodges and second by Smith. Incident was added in the first paragraph-recurring incident. Him was changed to his under Officer Urps’ report.

The agenda was approved as printed.

Citizen Input:

* There were no citizens present.

Employee reports:

* There were no employees present.

Old Business

* The Town will not be able to place a fire hydrant within the Monticello housing complex. The water pipes are too small to accommodate fire hydrants.
* Town Hall update—Blatt, Geiger and Richardson met with David Cole, Jeff Johnson and Kim Odle of Region I to discuss the Request for Proposals. Region I will incorporate the Town request within the necessary guidelines, mail it to the required parties as well as all architects within the State and advertise it in the Bluefield Daily Telegraph. Proposals are to be received in early December at which time a selection committee and process will be implemented.
* The Sidewalk project final bid was accepted and progress will soon begin. Mark Parsell, Town Maintenance Supervisor renewed necessary approvals with the State Department of Highways.
* There was no current SRTS report.
* Dylan McInturff has agreed to serve on the Town Planning Commission.
* Maps have been prepared for the possible incorporation of the west end of West Concord Street.
* The Town has turned in a cost estimate to the PSC, prepared by Randy Bolton of Stafford Consultants, Inc., for the disputed water extension on the Old Athens Road. The cost estimate is around $72,000.
* A letter to all Town residents about barking dogs and excrement on sidewalks, was prepared by Geiger, amended by Council and will be completed at the next Council meeting.
* Ordinances, Chapter III, Garbage, Trash and other Waste as well as Chapter II, Article 209, Animals are presently on hold.

New Business:

* There was no new business.

Other Business/Mayoral Report/Council Member input

* Hodges reported that the proposed Christmas lights are nearly completed and will be finished by November 1, 2007.
* Council members received copies adjustments for the month of September, July water report and August water report.

Smith made the motion to approve the bills. McKinley seconded the motion which carried.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 p.m.

_______________________________________ __________________________________

Robert M. Richardson, Jr. Mayor Mary Lu Geiger, Recorder

Minutes

October 2, 2007

Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Council members present were: Bard, Geiger, Hodges, Manzo, McKinley, Smith, and Richardson. Others present were: Stanley and Yvonne Harvey, John Lawson, Jim Lilly, Shelby McClanahan, Mike Sizemore, Sewer Plant Operator, and Officer Urps

The minutes of the September 18, 2007 meeting were approved on a motion by Hodges and second by Smith.

The agenda was approved as printed.

Citizen Input:

* John Lawson of West Broadway came before Council complaining about barking dogs on property adjoining his. Council asked that he speak with his neighbor. He was also giving a copy of the Town Ordinances concerning barking dogs. Council has taken this recurring incident under advisement. Geiger will prepare a letter notifying all Town residents of the Ordinance, and that this Ordinance will be strictly enforced. The aforementioned letter will be approved by Council at its next meeting on October 16th.
* The Harveys, Lilly and McClanahan were present to discuss the incorporation of the West end of West Concord Street. Sizemore explained that the extension of the sewer line will be expensive due to the lay of the land; at least one lift station will be required. An estimate will be prepared to be presented at the next Council meeting. It is mandatory that we follow the 505 rule for sewer line extensions.
* Chief Harvey was also concerned about the lack of fire hydrants at the housing development named Monticello. Richardson advised him to get with Mark Parsell, Town Maintenance supervisor to locate the requested fire hydrant. The Town will install the fire hydrant.

Employee reports:

o Officer Urps gave him (his) monthly report which is attached to these minutes. He answered Council inquiries.

Old Business

* The second reading of the Mercer County Teen Court ordinance as prepared by Town Attorney, Donald Caruth was approved on a motion of Smith and second by Hodges.
* Town Hall update—Bard, Blatt, and Geiger met to discuss possible grant proposals and ramifications involved. Blatt has prepared a Request for Proposals which was mailed or e-mailed to all Council members. The consensus of Council was to accept the information that she had prepared. Richardson asked that Blatt take the letter to Region I for publication. She should see either David Cole or Jeff Johnson. Geiger will inform Blatt of this request. A letter that Geiger prepared for Mrs. William Stafford (Dink) inquiring about the Hunnicutt Foundation was approved by Council and will be sent.
* The Sidewalk project final bids are due October 8th.
* Kudos were expressed to Dave and Carol Bard on the Town Picnic held at their home. All present were most pleased with the evening.
* Bard and Geiger are reviewing the old Town Ordinances and will bring suggested changes and inclusions to future meetings.
* Ordinances, Chapter III, Garbage, Trash and other Waste as well as Chapter II, Article 209, Animals are presently on hold.

New Business:

* The Planning Commission was discussed. There is WV State Code concerning this committee and our present Ordinances are in line with the State Code. The suggested committee will be comprised of Norm Cole, Jeff Johnson, Dylan McInturff, Council member Rodger McKinley and Mayor Richardson. Richardson will consult with the suggested members to judge their interest in serving the Town in this capacity.
* A request for water line extension on the Old Athens Road is before the Public Service Commission. Randy Bolton of Stafford Consultants, Inc. has prepared a cost estimate.
* Concord United Methodist Church will sponsor a dinner for all Town Employees and elected officials on Tuesday, October 16th at 6 p.m. in Anderson Hall at the Church.
* A building permit was denied due to location in violation of offset regulations.

Other Business/Mayoral Report/Council Member input

* Hodges reported that the proposed Christmas lights will be trees. They will be cut from sheet metal.
* Council members received copies adjustments for the month of September, July water report and August water report.

McKinley made the motion to approve the bills. Smith seconded the motion which carried.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:47 p.m.

_______________________________________ __________________________________

Robert M. Richardson, Jr. Mayor Mary Lu Geiger, Recorder

Minutes

September 18, 2007

Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Council members present were: Bard, Geiger, Hodges, Manzo, McKinley, Smith, and Richardson. Lorraine Justus was also present as an observing Concord University student.

The minutes of the September 4, 2007 meeting were approved on a motion by Bard and second by Hodges.

The agenda was approved as printed.

Citizen Input:

Employee reports:

o No employees were present.

Old Business

* The first reading of the Mercer County Teen Court ordinance as prepared by Town Attorney, Donald Caruth was read.
* Town Hall update—Bard Blatt and Geiger will meet to discuss possible grant proposals and ramifications involved.
* The Sidewalk project is once again being advertised with hope of completing the grant this construction season.
* A sign-up sheet was passed around for the Town Picnic.
* Richardson attempted to defuse a situation on East Concord Street regarding trash in a yard. He is still working on the Ordinances, Chapter III, Garbage, Trash and other Waste as well as Chapter II, Article 209, Animals.

New Business:

Other Business/Mayoral Report/Council Member input

* Hodges reported that progress is continuing on the proposed Christmas lights. Council approved a change to snowflakes rather than trees if necessary.
* Hodges reported a recent addition to the Town website. Bill Hartman wrote a paper on the history of Athens while attending Concord College in 1947.
* Council members received copies of the Revenue and Expense report for August and the Bank Balance report for August.

Smith made the motion to approve the bills. McKinley seconded the motion which carried.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:38 p.m.

_______________________________________ __________________________________

Robert M. Richardson, Jr. Mayor Mary Lu Geiger, Recorder

Minutes

August 21, 2007

Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:08 p.m. Council members present were: Bard, Geiger, Hodges, Manzo, McKinley, Smith, and Richardson. Others present were Tom Ford, Greg Puckett, Elizabeth Roth and Beth Sizemore.

The minutes of the August 7, 2007 meeting were approved on a motion by Smith and second by McKinley.

The agenda was amended to include West Concord Street under new business.

Citizen Input:

* Tom Ford and Elizabeth Roth were present for the second reading of the Tree Board ordinance under the Health and Safety section of the Town ordinances. Smith made the motion to approve the Tree Board ordinance, seconded by Hodges and passed with a vote of opposition from McKinley.
* Greg Puckett, Community Connections and Beth Sizemore, ChildLaw Services Inc., representing Mercer County Teen Court asked Council to consider a $5 surcharge be added to all violations with the exception of parking tickets to aid the Teen Court financially. Teen Court is Giving First Offenders a Second Chance. Trained high school volunteers and previous offenders form the jury and teens assume all other courtroom roles. Smith made the motion to support the initiative empowered by the legislature. The motion was seconded by Hodges and approved by Council. A first reading of the new ordinance was held. Bard will refine the wording of the ordinance.

Employee reports:

o No employees were present

* Old Business:
* The Mayor’s drawing of the new Town Hall was discussed as was the office staff drawing. Richardson was asked to plot his design on the lot designated for the new Town Hall.
* Bard, Geiger and Michell Berkey met with the new principal at Athens School Terry Quesenberry about the SRTS grant. He agreed to help in any way possible and felt this project would concur with the Healthy Schools program. Berkey will be the Coordinator, Bard will deal with the school part of the grant and Geiger with the sidewalks.
* Bid Set #2 has been prepared by Stafford Consultants, Inc. for the remaining funds in the Sidewalk Project.
* Patching will be completed on Church Street and Old Hinton Road when the water connections are completed.
* A discussion of building permits was held. Manzo will gather information and make recommendations about the present building ordinance.
* The Employee/Council picnic will be held on September 25th at the Bards’ home on Plymouth Street. They will supply meat, drinks and paper products. Everyone attending is expected to bring a potluck dish. Geiger will prepare a flyer and see that it is distributed to all Town employees.

New Business

* A home owner on West Concord Street asked about the procedure to incorporate within the Town. He will be asked to bring a petition signed by interested residents and a list of those residents not in agreement. The Town will arrange for sewer connection and lighting if the petition is approved.

Other Business/Mayoral Report/Council Member input

* Hodges reported that there may be progress on the proposed Christmas lights.
* Council members received copies of the Revenue and Expense report for July and the Bank Balance report for July.

Smith made the motion to approve the bills. McKinley seconded the motion which carried.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:38 p.m.

_______________________________________ __________________________________

Robert M. Richardson, Jr. Mayor Mary Lu Geiger, Recorder

Minutes

August 7, 2007

Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Council members present were: Geiger, McKinley, Smith, and Richardson. Hodges was late. Bard and Manzo were absent. Elizabeth Roth and Officer Urps were also present.

The minutes of the July 17, 2007 meeting were approved on a motion by McKinley and second by Richardson.

The agenda was approved as printed.

Citizen Input:

* Elizabeth Roth was present for the second reading of the Tree Board ordinance under the Health and Safety section of the Town ordinances. Final approval of the ordinance was deferred until more members of the Council were present.
* Roth inquired about the ability to build condominiums within the Town limits. Any such building would require a variance if the building is within R-1 residential zones which are restricted to single family dwellings.

Employee reports:

* Officer Urps gave his monthly report. He is making a concerted effort to be more visible to Town residents. A copy of his report is attached to these minutes. All Council questions were answered satisfactorily.

Old Business:

* Geiger reported on information from Elizabeth Blatt concerning the new Town Hall. She reported that Blatt had prepared a list of all LEED certified professionals and architects within the state. Blatt also has a list of LEED qualifications and the process for applying for LEED certification. She will continue to pursue funding sources. Council must decide on the actual dimensions before further work can be completed. Richardson had prepared a preliminary drawing which will be presented at the next Council meeting.
* Geiger reported that the resolution for the SRTS project had been received in Charleston and will be included in the Agreement after SHPO has approved the project.
* All bids for the Athens Sidewalk Project were outside the parameter of the remaining money available for completing the sidewalk projects as reported by Stafford Consultants. Geiger requested a 90 day extension which will expire at the end of December. She also sent in plans for a change of scope which will include sidewalk construction from West Broadway south along North State Street. Stafford will include a deduct which should use all available funds. The project must be re-advertised and rebid.
* All water line projects have been completed on Old Hinton Road but the connection has not yet been made. A new water connection has been made at the Butler property on South State Street.
* The cell phones are no issue presently as Michael Sizemore is the only current employee at the Sewer Plant.
* The discussion of building permits was tabled until more Council members are present for input.
* Geiger suggested that Council members bear the expense for the meat for the Employee/Council picnic on September 25th. She will investigate the cost and report at the next Council meeting.

New Business

* Richardson had not completed the proposed Ordinance revision of Chapter II and Chapter III. The discussion was tabled until the next Council meeting.

Other Business/Mayoral Report/Council Member input

* Council will be attempting to complete the construction of the new Town Hall and will turn over the responsibility of the new Fire Station to the Athens Volunteer Fire Department.
* Council was distressed with the vandalism to the Athens Town Park. Most damage has been repaired by the Town Crew.
* Mayor Richardson gave permission to Teen Challenge to solicit within the Town limits.

Smith made the motion to approve the bills. McKinley seconded the motion which carried.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:10 p.m.

_______________________________________ __________________________________

Robert M. Richardson, Jr. Mayor Mary Lu Geiger, Recorder

Athens Town Council

Minutes

July 17, 2007 
 

Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Council members present were: Bard, Geiger, Hodges, McKinley, and Richardson.  Manzo and Smith were absent.  Betty Blatt, Tom Ford, Elizabeth Roth, Mike Cyrus, and Steve Tatum were also present. 

The minutes of the July 3, 2007 meeting were approved on a motion by Bard and second by Hodges.  

The agenda was approved as printed. 

Citizen Input:

• Mike Cyrus and Steve Tatum were present at Council to request permission to build condominiums within the Town limits.  They were asked to send a letter requesting permission to do so, stating they will be sold and including the plans and land plots.
• The second reading of the Tree Board ordinance under the Health and Safety section of the Town ordinances was held.  Roth offered a clarification of public trees and private trees which were included in the ordinance. 

Employee reports:

• There were no employee reports. 

Old Business:

• The new Town Hall was again discussed.  LEED is the site to go to on the computer for green construction information.  Blatt explained the steps Council will need to pursue to effectively get this project going.  She gave an in depth explanation of the information that would be required to request a proposal from architects.  The National Park Service built a green Visitor’s Center at Sandstone.  Blatt had handouts prepared for Council.  On a motion by Richardson and second by Hodges Dr. Elizabeth Blatt is appointed chairperson of the Citizens Advisory Committee for the Planning of Construction of the Athens Town Hall.  Council unanimously approved the motion.
• Geiger presented a resolution for the SRTS (Safe Routes to School) project.  Hodges made the motion to accept the resolution, seconded by Bard and passed by Council.  A copy of the resolution is attached to these minutes.
• Stafford Consultants, Inc. has prepared Bid Set No. 2 for the Athens Sidewalk Project and will hold a meeting on Friday, July 20 with prospective bidders.
• Springs Road letters should be sent to John Mc Brayer, district 10 supervisor.
• All water line projects have been completed on Cooper Street, West Broadway and Church Street.  Old Hinton Road has yet to be completed.  The gas company has yet to lay a line on West Broadway to a newly constructed home.
• Council is frustrated with the current work of the Mercer County Day Report Center.  Steve Collins will be contacted.
• The cell phone discussion was tabled.

New Business

• The Council planned to have an employee/council picnic/cook-out on Tuesday, September 25, 2007 at 6:30 p.m. for all employees/council members and families.

Other Business/Mayoral Report/Council Member input

• There was no further input.

McKinley made the motion to approve the bills. Geiger seconded the motion which carried.  

The meeting was adjourned at 8:25 p.m.  
 
 

_______________________________________        __________________________________

Minutes

June 19, 2007

Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:10 p.m.Council members present were: Bard, Geiger, McKinley, Richardson, andSmith. Hodges and Manzo were absent.

The minutes of the June 4, 2007 meeting were approved on a motion by Bard and second by Smith.

The agenda was amended to include under Old Business the sidewalk grant and Springs Road.

Citizen Input:

* There was no citizen input.

Employee reports:

* There were no employees present.

Old Business:

* The new Town Hall was discussed. Council feels that we needsupporting letters. Richardson will prepare a fact sheet to guideindividuals interested in supporting this project. We need to havespecs prepared for a green building, investigate the cost, size ofstructure and layout. The office staff, Elizabeth Owen and RhondaThomason, will be asked to put their ideas on paper. In any event, anarchitect must be employed.
* The second reading of the Ordinances Chapter III, Articles 313,313.01, and 313.02 were approved on a motion of Geiger and second bySmith.
* A contract has been signed for the paving of West Broadway and Cooper Streets.
* Phase 2 of the sidewalk grant is about to begin. There are threesections: North State Street from Gino’s to the new sidewalk,North State Street north of the church entrance, and the corner ofRoute 20 and West Broadway. The money available for these projects isnot nearly enough to complete the proposed paving. Council came toconsensus on new sidewalks north of the church entrance to WestBroadway.
* Springs Road in relation to multiple accidents was again discussed.Tom Lilly has written a letter, and Council is contacting others to dolikewise. We are attempting to get accident reports from the StatePolice.
* Geiger contacted the 911 Center concerning the change of addresses on the Burton property.
* Geiger wrote a letter on behalf of the Council supporting the Mathena Center in Princeton.
* McKinley met with Sizemore about the sludge spreader. The original choice by Sizemore was the best.

New Business

* Bard and Smith completed the canvassing of the MunicipalElection. Those elected stand as reported: Mayor Richardson, CouncilMembers Hodges and Manzo.
* The Day Report Center has not yet begun their work within the town.

Other Business/Mayoral Report/Council Member input

* Members were given a copy of the Water Plant Report for Mayas well Town bank balances as of May 31, 2007 and Revenues and Expensesfor May

Smith made the motion to approve the bills. McKinley seconded the motion which carried.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:40 p.m.

_______________________________________ __________________________________

Robert M. Richardson, Jr. Mayor Mary Lu Geiger, Recorder

Minutes

May 15, 2007

Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.Council members present were: Geiger, Manzo, McKinley, Richardson, andSmith. Hodges was late and Bard was attending a county wide pandemicmeeting. Beth and Jake Ramthun were also present.

The minutes of the May 1, 2007 meeting were approved on a motion by Richardson and second by McKinley.

The agenda was amended to include Town Park, banners, ordinances and building permits.

Citizen Input:

There was no citizen input. Jake Ramthun attended the meetingas he has to write an essay on a public meeting for a leadershipconference he will be attending this summer in Washington, D.C.

Employee reports:

Geiger read a letter from Mark Parsell, Town MaintenanceSupervisor, stating the work that he recommends we do beforeconsidering paving Cooper Street and West Broadway.

Old Business:

Town Hall—Richardson spoke of a demonstration project ona green town hall in Greensburg, Kansas. We should contact them forfurther information. Smith has contacted the Benedum Foundation whogives no grants for construction.
Sewer Plant—the new employee will start on May 21st aftersuccessful completion of his physical and other testing.
Geiger made the motion to accept Ordinance, Article II, Section 205 asread. Manzo seconded the motion which was passed.

New Business:

The street paving projects are an ongoing project as stated in Parsell’s report.
The reserving of the Town Park was discussed. Information is to beadded to the form which clearly states that Park reservations mean theGazebo and any damage is the responsibility of the group reserving thepark. Additional information is to be added asking for civility withnoise and language as well as keeping in mind that the Park is alwaysopen to the public.
Manzo will remove the damaged portion of the Town banners.
Richardson said that the Ordinances should be codified and repealed as necessary.

Other Business/Mayoral Report/Council Member input

McKinley asked that an election announcement at the post office be made more visible.
A building permit for Ronnell Martin was shared with Council. Councilmembers feel these permits are necessary for the image of the Town andto protect and support the people of Athens. A very lengthy and heateddiscussion followed.
Members were given a copy of the revenues and expenses for April aswell as the bank balances and the water report for March.

McKinley made the motion to approve the bills. Smith seconded the motion which carried.

Geiger adjourned the meeting at 8:15 p.m.

_______________________________________ __________________________________

Robert M. Richardson, Jr. Mayor Mary Lu Geiger, Recorder

Minutes

May 1, 2007

Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.Council members present were: Bard, Geiger, McKinley, and Richardson.Hodges, Manzo and Smith were absent. Officer Urps was also present.

The minutes of the April 17, 2007 meeting were approved on a motion by Bard and second by McKinley.

The agenda was amended to include poll workers for theelection and a general burning ordinance under new business as well asapproval for accounts turned over for collection.

Citizen Input:

There was no citizen input.

Employee reports:

* Officer Urps gave his monthly report. Questions fromCouncil were answered. A copy of his report is attached to theseminutes.

Old Business:

* The Town-Wide Yard Sale was deemed a great success. Kudosto Carol Bard for her organization and execution of the project. Geigermade the motion that the Town organize a yard sale the first Saturdayof May, yearly, at any individual’s home that is interested. TheTown will absorb the fee for advertising and the yard sale fee will besuspended. Bard seconded the motion which carried.
* Town Hall—no report.
* Narrow Street—no report.
* Building Permits—no further information.
* Sewer Plant—the new employee will start on May 21st after successful completion of his physical and other testing.

New Business:

* Article II, Section 215 miscellaneous for open fires was approved by Council on the first reading.
* Poll workers were approved for the pre-election and the election on a motion of Bard and second by McKinley.
* Approval was given for the accounts to be turned over for collection.

Other Business/Mayoral Report/Council Member input

* Richardson would like to schedule a meeting with theDepartment of Highways on May 22, 2007 at 7 p.m. to discuss the SpringsRoad situation.
* On May 15th, the next Council meeting, Bard will be attending a townhall style meeting on Pandemic Flu sponsored by the Mercer CountyHealth Department, the WV Department of Health and Human Resources andthe WV Department of Military Affairs and Public Service.
* Members were given a copy of current adjustments to water and sewer accounts.

McKinley made the motion to approve the bills. Geiger seconded the motion which carried.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:54 p.m.

_______________________________________ __________________________________

Robert M. Richardson, Jr. Mayor Mary Lu Geiger, Recorder

Minutes

April 3, 2007

Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m.Council members present were: Bard, Geiger, McKinley, Manzo, andRichardson. Hodges and Smith were absent. Jeff Johnson, Region ICommunity Development Director, was also present.

The minutes of the March 20, 2007 meeting were approved on a motion by Manzo and second by McKinley.

The agenda was approved as printed.

Citizen Input:

Jeff Johnson from Region I conducted the second publichearing for the Small Cities Block Grant for demolition of dilapidatedor beyond useful buildings. He explained that copies of the minutesfrom the March 20th, first public meeting, and the April 3rd, secondpublic meeting, are needed for inclusion with the grant. He will bringthe application to sign at a future meeting.

Employee reports:

Officer Urps was at a traffic stop and unable to attend the Council meeting.

Old Business:

Geiger read a letter from Kenneth Crowe, PE, explaining thecosts to Stafford Consultants, Inc. for the planning and implementationof the Sidewalk Grant, Phase II. His explanation was accepted andGeiger signed the necessary papers.

New Business:

The mowing fees for the Athens Town Park, Purser Park andvarious properties mowed by Gary Keaton were discussed. Geiger made themotion to pay $115 per each completed mowing. Bard seconded the motionwhich carried.

Geiger made the motion seconded by Manzo to pay MichaelSizemore a salary equal to the salary of the former Sewer PlantOperator effectively immediately. Manzo seconded the motion whichcarried.

Other Business/Mayoral Report/Council Member input

Manzo will contact the Benedum Foundation concerningavailable funds for the New Town Hall which is contemplated to be builtenergy efficient or in the green mode.

Council received copies of the water and sewer adjustmentsfor the month of March. There were more adjustments than usual asestimated amounts had to be used due to the inability to read metersbecause of weather conditions.

McKinley made the motion to approve the bills. Geiger seconded the motion which carried.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:53 p.m.

_______________________________________ __________________________________

Robert M. Richardson, Jr. Mayor Mary Lu Geiger, Recorder

Minutes

March 20, 2007

Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.Council members present were: Geiger, Hodges, McKinley, Manzo,Richardson and Smith. Bard was absent. Others present were MichaelSizemore, Jeff Johnson, Karen Hyatt and Russell Akers

The minutes of the March 6, 2007 meeting were approved on a motion by Hodges and second by Smith.

The agenda was approved with the addition of the AthensSidewalk project under Old Business and Municipal Bond resolution underNew Business.

Citizen Input:

Jeff Johnson from Region I conducted the first public hearingfor the Small Cities Block Grant for demolition of dilapidated orbeyond useful buildings. These projects include the present Athens TownHall of which he will take photographs. He explained that the grantwill remove blight and have a large impact on life in Athens. Also, hesuggested writing letters to our local representatives expressing ourconcern at the conditions for these buildings and asking help insecuring the funds in question. Letters should be addressed to Gov.Manchin, State Senators Caruth, Chapin and Guills as well asrepresentatives Long and Porter. Johnson will send a list of pertinentinformation to be included in the letters. Many letters are needed onbehalf of the Town request. The second public hearing will be on April3rd at the regular Town Council meeting.
Karen Hyatt from the Athens BB&T introduced Akers who describedBB&T’s program for governmental finance. These are tax exemptloans for municipalities and could be pertinent with building the newAthens Town Hall.

Employee reports:

Derk Alvis has resigned his position as of March 16, 2007 asSewer Treatment Plant Supervisor/Operator. Sizemore, acting SewerTreatment Plant Supervisor/Operator, spoke concerning the Ordinances asthey apply to grease and oil in the sewer system. The plant isexperiencing fog which comes from excess grease and oil in the system.He explained the process for removal of the hardened product. As anexample, when Concord University is in session there are 50-60 poundsper week of grease and oil, but when school is on break, there are only5-6 pounds of grease and oil. Rural water is to help Sizemore with thissituation; ordinances will be checked as well as the use of therequired grease trap.

Old Business:

Geiger reported that of the $51,835.67 now remain in the TownSidewalk Project grant Stafford Consultants, Inc. ask a fee of $13,000which is 25% of the remaining funds. A letter from Dean Upton, StaffordConsultants, was deferred until further financial information can befound.
Richardson and Council went over the proposed budget. Geiger made themotion to accept the budget with all suggested changes to be included.Hodges seconded the motion which passed.

New Business:

The Municipal Bond Commission is finalizing a program with theState Treasurer’s office for electronic payments. A resolution,attached to these minutes, to enable such payments was accepted on amotion of Smith and second by Manzo.



Other Business/Mayoral Report/Council Member input

Richardson advised Council of the need to purchase newcomputers for the Town Office. He recommended purchase of new computersand flat screens from Mountaineer Computer Systems at the cost of $1500each to be used for water and sewer. The motion for purchase was madeby Manzo, seconded by Smith and approved by Council.
Hodges reported that welding should be completed for the Town Christmaslights by April 1. Sizemore will get the additional information of thecost to electrify the poles and the annual electricity cost.
Richardson advised Council that he had requested $15,000 from the Statethrough Senator Caruth for architectural drawings for the new Town Hall.
Council received copies of revenues and expenses for February, bankbalances for February and the water report for February.

McKinley made the motion to approve the bills. Geiger seconded the motion which carried.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:09 p.m.

_______________________________________ __________________________________

Robert M. Richardson, Jr. Mayor Mary Lu Geiger, Recorder

Minutes

February 20, 2007

Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:04 p.m.Council members present were: Bard, Geiger, Hodges, Manzo, McKinley,and Richardson. Smith was absent. Others present were the followingmembers of the Parliamentary Class at Concord University as observers:Ryan Blankenship, Justin Grathewohl and Melanie Hatfield

The minutes of the February 6, 2007 meeting were approved asamended on a motion by Hodges and second by Manzo. (Minutes amended tostate that Hydrogen Sulfide gas is a by-product of sewage.)

The agenda was approved with the addition of Christmas lights under Old Business.

Citizen Input:

* There was no citizen input.

Employee reports:

Old Business:

* A Safe Routes to School meeting was held on Tuesday,February 13th at 10 a.m. with Rebecca Davison from the grant committee,Council member Carol Bard, Acting Principal from Athens School AnnetteBattlo, and Lynne White representing the Mercer County Board ofEducation and the Athens School Improvement Committee. The group walkedthe routes requesting improvement by the Town, answered all questions,received answers to questions and reviewed the grant application.
* A fire department meeting was held on Tuesday, February 13th at 4p.m. with the architect to explain renditions of the new Fire Station.In Smith’s absence, Council member Bard reported on the lengthy,four hour, meeting. She stated that the meeting was very interestingand informative. Four scenario were presented with the projected costranging from $800,000 to $1,243,000. There are difficulties with allplans including parking, access to Caperton Street and the apartmentslocated on this street, the school zone and the cost of sitedevelopment. The Athens Fire department receives $78,000 annually fromthe County Commission. A majority of their calls are for rescue. Theycannot charge for these services but may bill for them.
* Jim French will serve on the Building Commission.
* The required public meetings for the Small City Block grant will beheld on March 20th and April 3rd at the Town Hall during Councilmeetings.
* Hodges brought information about the Christmas lights to be made atthe Technical Education Center. The consensus of Council was toimplement the Christmas tree design.
* Council members shared information prepared for the Jefferson awards. Council informally selected Geiger as a nominee.
* Richardson reported that the cost of improvement to the Springs Roadsuggested by the Department of Highways will be $218,730 for fivehundred (500) feet of improvement. Their representative will be invitedto a future Council meeting.

New Business:

Other Business/Mayoral Report/Council Member input

* The State Department of Health has inspected the Town watersystem. They require both a cross-connection and back-flow valve.Council will come up with a plan to meet their specific needs.
* Council members received copies of the Town of Athens water report for November and December.

McKinley made the motion to approve the bills. Geiger seconded the motion which carried.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:05 p.m.

_______________________________________ __________________________________

Robert M. Richardson, Jr. Mayor Mary Lu Geiger, Recorder

Minutes

February 6, 2007

Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:07 p.m.Council members present were: Bard, Geiger, Hodges, Manzo, McKinley,Richardson and Smith. Others present were officer Urps and thefollowing members of the Parliamentary Class at Concord University asobservers: Jessica Cook, Rachel Fleming, Bryan Henderson, Brandon Hodgeand Buck Skeen.

The minutes of the January 16, 2007 meeting were approved asamended on a motion by Bard and second by Hodges. (Minutes amended toinclude The Trading Journal under advertisements for the Town Wide YardSale.)

The agenda was approved with nominations for the Jefferson Awards were added to New Business.

Citizen Input:

* There was no citizen input.

Employee reports:

* Officer Urps gave his monthly report, a copy of which isattached to these minutes. Manzo inquired about the WV Motor VehicleStop Form. Urps explained the form and answered questions.

Old Business:

* A Safe Routes to School meeting has been scheduled forTuesday, February 13th at 10 a.m. with Rebecca Davison from the grantcommittee.
* A fire department meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, February 13th at4 p.m. with the architect to explain renditions of the new Fire Station.
* Richardson had not spoken with Jim French about joining the BuildingCommission. He will speak with French before the next meeting.
* Jeff Johnson from Region I prepared a draft proposal for the Town ofAthens Revitalization project which included a projected budget.Council continues to be interested in building a “green”,energy conservative, Town Hall. Suggestions were made concerning thepossibility of obtaining funds for a demonstration project for thestate. Manzo has researched “green” facilities; he willduplicate the materials for Council members consideration and prepare acover letter to go with the draft proposal.
* Geiger made the motion seconded by Hodges to suspend the yard salelicense for the day of the Town Wide Yard Sale. This information willbe disseminated with the second letter to all Athens residents.

New Business:

* Discussion was held concerning citizens for nomination forthe Jefferson awards. These awards are given for outstanding publicservice benefiting local communities. Bard, Richardson and others willprepare preliminary nominations. The due date is February 23rd and onenomination will be accepted by Council.
* The Town prioritized projects as follows: Town Hall and Economic Development.

Other Business/Mayoral Report/Council Member input

* Richardson has written Rod Weitzel requesting that he move his vehicles from the Town property on Vermillion Street.
* Derk Alvis, Sewer Plant Supervisor, is unable to continue working. Hehas developed an allergy to Hydrogen Sulfide gas which is used in sewerplant maintenance (amended 2/20/07 to list sulfide gas as a by-productof sewer). His employment will be continued until all of hisaccumulated sick leave and vacation are exhausted.
* Council members received copies of Revenues and Expenses for January,2007, bank balances for January and adjustments for water and sewer.

McKinley made the motion to approve the bills. Smith seconded the motion which carried.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:23 p.m.

_______________________________________ __________________________________

Robert M. Richardson, Jr. Mayor Mary Lu Geiger, Recorder

Minutes

January 16, 2007

Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.Council members present were: Bard, Geiger, Hodges, Manzo, McKinley,and Richardson.

The minutes of the January 2, 2007 meeting were approved on a motion by Hodges and second by Bard.

Supplemental agreement for the Athens Sidewalk grant was added to old business as was the road conditions on the Springs Road.

Citizen Input:

* There was no citizen input.

Employee reports:

* There was no employee reports.

Old Business:

* The walkability report prepared by Ron Eck, WVU human engineer, has been included in the Safe Routes to School Grant.
* No fire department report was given as Smith was not present at the meeting.
* The Sweet Shop property owned by Jim Neville was discussed. Aconstruction expert is needed to complete the Building Commission.Richardson will contact Jim French and Hodges will contact Jim Lilly.
* Town Hall grant applications were discussed. A Small City Block grantis being investigated. The amount to be requested was discussed. Geigermade the motion to apply for $195,000 which was seconded by Bard andpassed by Council.
* The change of scope for the Sidewalk Project grant was read byGeiger. Bard made the motion to accept the change of scope which wasseconded by Manzo and passed by Council.
* Manzo met with John McBrayer concerning the condition of Springs Roadby Mercer Healing Springs Farm. Richardson had also been contacted. Itwas felt that new signage and improvement of visibility was necessaryto improve conditions. McBrayer stated that a report would beforthcoming in thirty days. This road is not within the town limits ofAthens.

New Business:

* Bard presented further information on the Town Wide YardSale. Clothing will not be permitted at the donated site but homeownersmy do as they choose. The consensus was to run a three line ad in theclassified section of the newspaper for five days at a cost of $60.Letters of notification will be sent out to Town residents. The salewill be on April 21st with the 28th as a rain alternative.
*

Other Business/Mayoral Report/Council Member input

* Manzo inquired as to the responsibility of the Town officer in certain situations.

McKinley made the motion to approve the bills. Manzo seconded the motion which carried.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:45 p.m.

_______________________________________ __________________________________

Robert M. Richardson, Jr. Mayor Mary Lu Geiger, Recorder

Minutes

November 21, 2006

Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:07 p.m.Council members present were: Bard, Geiger, Manzo, McKinley, Richardsonand Smith. Hodges was absent.

The minutes of the November 7, 2006 meeting were approved on a motion Smith and second by Manzo.

The agenda was approved as printed.

Citizen Input:

* There was no citizen input.

Employee reports:

* There was no employee input.

Old Business:

* Geiger spoke with Ed Mason who has the second request for achange of scope in hand. He had a few questions and will now send therequest through the proper channels for approval.
* The Safe Routes to School intent to apply form has been mailed beforethe November 15, 2006 deadline. Geiger will be gone during theapplication procedure so Bard will see that the necessary steps aretaken, if an application is granted.
* Chapters III of the Town Ordinances were codified on a motion of Bardwith a second by Smith and approval of the Council. In the lastsentence of the Ordinance abandoned was changed to unattended orinoperable.
* Bard reported a website (LEED) which contains information onenvironmentally friendly environments. This information was attainedfor further information in planning the new Town Hall. Trees shoulddefinitely be present.

New Business:

* Michael Weeks, Transportation Supervisor for the MercerCounty Board of Education has requested a change of direction of theone way section of Caperton Street, during school hours. Manzo made themotion to permanently change the direction of Caperton Street which wasseconded by Bard and approved by Council. A request will be made toAthens School to send notices of this change home with all students.Signs will be erected and Officer Urps will be requested to be presentat the beginning of the week of change.
* A meeting was held with Rural Development concerning funding for anew Town Hall. Those present were Kitty Sadler, Beckley office of RuralDevelopment, Patty Logan, local representative for Rural Development,Jeff Johnson, Region I, and Council Members, Geiger, McKinley andSmith. The HMI, home median income, for the Town of Athens is too greatto receive any grants. Council members requested a survey of the entireservice area for the HMI. A 40 year loan may be available from RuralDevelopment at 4.375% interest rate. Budget Digest money was alsosuggested as were the Honeycutt and Shott foundations.
* Weekend pagers, for the maintenance staff, during holiday weekendswere discussed. Geiger made the motion to pay workers $25 for eachholiday and the normal $25 for the weekend. Bard seconded the motionwhich carried. Council also suggested trading dates and volunteers forthe holiday weekends.

* Other Business/Mayor Report/Council Member input:
* Smith reported that the first week in December may be a potentialmeeting date for the new Fire Station. The meeting will be with thearchitect, Reynolds.
* The potentially dangerous conditions on the Gardner Road werediscussed. Geiger will prepare a resolution for the next Councilmeeting.
* Richardson reported that Town Attorney Caruth finds no requirementthat Building Commission members live with the corporate limits of theTown of Athens. Bard will review and share Commission information atthe next meeting.

Geiger made the motion to approve the bills. Manzo seconded the motion which carried.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:50 p.m.

Minutes

November 7, 2006

Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:07 p.m.Council members present were: Bard, Geiger, Hodges, Manzo, McKinley,Richardson and Smith. Jessica Fizer was also present.

The minutes of the October 17, 2006 meeting were approved on a motion Smith and second by Bard.

The agenda was approved as printed.

Citizen Input:

* There was no citizen input.

Employee reports:

* Urps presented his monthly report. He informed Council thathe is concerned about drivers driving revoked not paying their tickets.There was some discussion. The discussion was deferred to Richardsonand Urps. Urps has had numerous requests to check on the positions ofinfant restraint seats; and has adjusted them whenever necessary. Hismonthly report is attached to these minutes.

Old Business:

* The submission of the requested change of scope information is awaiting final resolution of the first change of scope.
* The Cooper Street parking situation appears to be resolved at this time.
* Safe Routes to School was discussed. The intent to apply will besubmitted by November 15, 2006. Lynne White will assist with the intentto apply form. Council named the project—Athens Children on theMove.
* Chapter II of The Town of Athens Ordinances was recodified on amotion of Hodges with a second by Smith and accepted by the Council.
* A first reading of Chapter III of the Town Ordinances was offered.Articles 307 and 309 were repealed and replaced by Article 307.
* Council members expressed interest in having an environmentalfriendly Town Hall constructed when the finances for building areavailable.
* Dr. Eloise Williams of Concord University has information concerningthe walkability report. Manzo commented that more crosswalks andflashing signs are needed. Council discussed moving the school zonesign as you pass the school on your right headed north. The sign is tooclose to the school to be effective.
* The Building Commission will consider the Griffee letter concerningdilapidated property. Council will review the composition of thecommittee at the next meeting according to Ordinances 301.01.

New Business:

There was no new business.

Other Business/Mayor Report/Council Member input:

* The Athens Medical Center Committee has disbanded leavingover $10,000 in the account. The money has been given to the Townbuilding fund for the new Town Hall.
* Michael Sizemore stated that the poles can be prepared electricallyfor the Christmas lights. He will do the poll preparation.
* Smith reported that a representative of Rural Development will bepresent for a meeting on money available for new Town Halls and firestations on November 7th at 2:30 p.m. in the Town Hall.
* On a motion by Hodges and second by Richardson a Thanksgiving andChristmas bonus of $50 each time was approved for all Town employees.The motion was unanimously approved.
* Hodges moved that the delinquent accounts be turned over for collection with a second by Smith. The motion carried.
* Council members received copies of September Revenues and Expenses byFund, Town of Athens bank balances and adjustments for the month ofSeptember.
* McKinney reported that the utility pole on Morgan Street had been moved.
* Members received a list of employee names for holiday bonuses, acurrent revenues and expenses sheets, and names for collection.

Smith made the motion to approve the bills. McKinley seconded the motion which carried.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:42 p.m.

Minutes

October 3, 2006

Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7 p.m. Councilmembers present were: Bard, Geiger, Hodges, McKinley, Richardson andSmith. Manzo was absent. Others present were: Tracy Trexler, GeneralRecovery Services, Jessica Fizer, Concord University Student, JeffHarvey, Princeton Times, and Dr. Al Beatty.

The minutes of the September 19, 2006 meeting were amended tocorrect two spelling errors. Bard moves acceptance of the minutes,seconded by Bard and approved by Council.

The agenda was approved as printed.

Citizen Input:

* Trexler reported that General Recovery Services had openeda new office in Bluefield. She presented information concerning theircollection services with a 30% flat rate. Richardson advised her towait a few days and then contact Elizabeth Owen in the Town Hall.
* Jessica Fizer is observing the Town Council for Methods III, Practicewith Communities and Organizations for her Social Work degree atConcord.
* Beatty is concerned about the parking on Cooper Street. He reportsthat it is difficult to navigate due to all the traffic from rentalsand multiple car owners on the street. He questioned whether or not ourordinances require off street parking rather than parking in yards.Council will take his concerns under advisement.

Employee reports:

Urps was not present for his report as he is taking training on child restraints within automobiles.

Old Business:

* Geiger asked for comments on the list of sidewalksrequesting a change of scope. Council was unable to reach a consensus.Richardson and Parsell, Town Maintenance Supervisor will survey thesidewalks and make a decision. Geiger will then submit a request for achange of scope.
* Cooper Street parking was already discussed.
* Ordinance review was tabled until members have perused the proposed changes.

New Business:

* Geiger will prepare a resolution for BettyRobertson’s 100th birthday, once she is able to obtain the neededinformation. She will e-mail the information for Council input.
* The PSC requires that water meters be accessible for reading. Severalmeters are in violation and are almost impossible to read. Richardsonwill write a letter to homeowners who violate the code.

Other Business/Mayor Report/Council Member input:

* Richardson reported that demolition money is available. Council members are to make lists.
* Money is available through TEA (Transportation Enhancement Act)grants but matching funds are a necessity. The Town has no moneyavailable for the required match at the present time.
* Smith reported that the architect, Glen Reynolds, is awaiting a diskfrom the surveyor containing the site plan for the new fire station.Randy Goodrich, the surveyor, is sending a second disk as the firstdisk was apparently lost in the mail. The status of the new FireStation will be updated once the disk is received.

Geiger made the motion to approve the bills. Smith seconded the motion which carried.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:10 p.m.

Minutes

September 19, 2006

Recorder Geiger called the meeting to order at 7 p.m. Councilmembers present were: Bard, Geiger, Hodges, Manzo, and McKinley.Richardson and Smith were absent. Others present were: Jean Beasley,Tom Ford and Elizabeth Roth—Tree Board members, StuartShinault—AEP, Charleston, Philip Ross—Appalachian PowerCompany, Natalie Keaton—Master Gardner, StevenDave—Concordian Newspaper and ECO Club member at ConcordUniversity, Norm Cole III—Tree Board Advisor, and Norm ColeIV—visitor.

The minutes of the September 5, 2006 meeting were amended toname Norm Cole as advisor to the Tree Board and not as a member on amotion of Hodges and second by Bard.

Revision of the Town Ordinances, Chapter II was added to theagenda as was Safe Routes to School, dilapidated buildings and BettyRobertson.

Citizen Input:

* Roth passed out a list of recommended trees. An extremelylengthy discussion was held with Shinault and Ross concerning theremoval of trees in Athens along State Street. Trees removed onVermillion Street were removed at the request of property owners.Council was advised that this was a 34,500 volt/main line and therewere not any immediate plans to cut other trees in Athens at this time.Safety was explained as the main issue for tree removal; the stabilityof the tree should be determined. Shinault stated that it is absolutelynecessary to notify before tree removal. Notifiers are to do this andnot the tree trimmers. Easement allows the power company to removetrees. Citizens are not responsible for any financial loss caused by atree on their property damaging the power lines. Shinault contendedthat there had been no problem in Bluefield as we had been lead tobelieve. Shinault denied that any citizens had been intimidated intocutting down their trees as Bard, Geiger and Manzo believe is the case.Shinault stated that he was careful to point out all the options tohomeowners, but he was unable to visit each property owner. Tree Boardmember, Ford stated that it appeared that lack of communication was themajor problem to which Beasley and Cole agreed. Ross passed out severalitems of information from AEP. He assured the Council that AEP would,upon request, respond to a request for tree trimming and/or cutting.McKinley asked that the tree list be grouped by size as he feels someof the trees were really inappropriate due to the height they grow.Council agreed to support the Tree Board with better communication forthe citizens in an effort to make a better Town of Athens.

Employee reports:

There were no employee reports

Old Business:

* The Tree Board was discussed under Citizen Input.
* Geiger gave a sidewalk project update asking they Council submitsidewalks that need to be built. A change of scope must be written aswell as a request to extend the deadline of the grant as it expires inJanuary, 2007. The present sidewalk project is complete with theexception of the hand railings on the South State Street section
* The demolition is complete with the adjacent sidewalk repair beingcompleted by the Town employees and Boone Construction Co.
* Hodges will have more time to spend on the website when his scheduleclears up. Council feels he has done a superb job. Geiger will contactTony Barbery expressing Council’s appreciation for his efforts onour behalf. She will also ask him to accept website information fromHodges or other Council members.
* Bard reported that four more fire hydrants will bepainted—nurses’ items, gumball, birdhouse and one yet to bedetermined.
* Council felt that residential parking on Cooper Street is a good idea is plans can be developed and executed.
* Ordinance review was tabled until members have access to copies of the proposed changes.
* A letter was received from Karen Griffee concerning the poorcondition of the back porch on the old Sweet Shop as well asdilapidated garage on the corner of Cooper and Narrow Street. Theinformation was turned over to Bard for the Town Building Commission toconsider.
* Manzo shared information about the Safe Routes to School from Lynne White.

New Business:

* Geiger reported that she had been asked if the Town coulddeclare Betty Robertson day for her one-hundredth birthday. Councilagreed that a resolution would be in order.
* Ted Kessinger has requested that a yellow line be painted across fromhis driveway. Council had voted that the street must be less thattwenty-five feet in width to honor such a request. Hodges will measurethe street.

Other Business/Mayor Report/Council Member input:

* Manzo stated that Ron Eck, a Professor of Human Engineeringfrom Morgantown will present a program on October 18th at 9 a.m. atTown Hall.
* Bard reported that she had checked with the DHHR about the Athenswater. She was told that this is an issue throughout the state due tothe heat and lack of rain. Athens water is excellent and JohnnyPentasuglia is the best.
* Hodges stated that Christmas lights are still being pursued.
* Hodges made the motion seconded by McKinley that Officer Urps bediligent on checking 111 Morgan Street after 10 p.m. frequently fornoise pollution in response to a written request from Teresa Barton.The motion carried.
* Each Council member received a copy of the revenues and expenses forthe month of August as well as the Town balances for August and theJuly water report.

McKinley made the motion to approve the bills. Geiger seconded the motion which carried.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:37 p.m.

Athens Town Council

Minutes

August 15, 2006 

Mayor Richardsoncalled the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. Council members present were:Mayor Richardson, Bard, Geiger, Hodges, Manzo, McKinley, and Smith.Others present were, Officer Urps, Tom Ford and Elizabeth Roth. 

The minutes ofthe August 1, 2006 meeting were approved on a motion of Smith andsecond by Manzo.   

There were notadditions or corrections to the agenda.   

Citizen Input:

• Dr. Elizabeth Roth presented aproposal concerning the establishment of a Town Tree Board.  Aquestion and answer session followed her presentation.  Dr. Ford,a professor of Biology at Concord University, had prepared a draft ofan informational pamphlet concerning trees.  A copy of allmaterials presented is attached to these minutes. 

      Smith made the motion to approve a Tree Boardwith the exception of financial penalties  concerning legalinfringements.  The motion died for a lack of a second. Hodges made the  motion to approve the establishment of a TreeBoard that will continue to research and advise  Council on treeissues; Council will act accordingly.  Smith seconded the motionwhich carried  with a dissenting vote by McKinley. Bard and Rothwere charged with finding individuals to serve  on the Tree Boardand submitting these names to Council for approval. 

Employeereports:

Officer Urpspresented his monthly report.  Council had questions which Urpsanswered.  A copy of his report is attached to theseminutes.   

Old Business:

• No progress has been made onthe Sidewalk project to date. 
• Demolition continues withinthe Town.  No trespassing signs should be put up at the oldBarbery property and the lock secured.  Someone is continuing tobreak into this building.
• The Athens Lake fishingproposal was discussed at great length.  Richardson feels thatmore input is needed from citizens if consideration of this project isto continue.
• The Town of Athens website maybe found at TownofAthens.com.  Urps took a photograph of theCouncil for the website.  Employee photos will also beadded.  Geiger will see that the minutes are attached to thewebsite. 
• No written complaints havebeen received from citizens concerning property that they feel isunsafe.
• Richardson did the plot mapsfor the future fire station to be given to the architect.  Thefire department is looking for money to fund the architectural expensesas well as to eventually build the new fire station.
• Copies of the Town Ordinancesconcerning rental property would be superfluous at this time and willnot be sent out to rental property owners.  Classes have alreadybegun at Concord University.
• Geiger reported that thedischarge from Gino’s roof is due to a flat roof and a large airconditioning unit on the roof. 
• Geiger discussed the SafeRoutes to School project.  Intent to apply is due inNovember.  She will speak with Kathy Ball, Director of the BonnerScholar program at Concord University and Elaine Jesse, Principal ofAthens School to get approval for an educational element.

New Business:

• The Tree Board was discussedunder Citizen Input.

OtherBusiness/Mayor Report/Council Member input:

• Bard gave members a copy of aPrinceton Times article by Jeff Harvey concerning the history of theBall Market.
• Comments were made concerningthe paving of Unity Road. 
• Each Council member received acopy of the WV Governmental Proceedings Act sent by Darrell V. McGraw,Jr., attorney general for the State of WV.  This information isbasically what is known as the sunshine law and governs meetings ofpublic agencies such as the Town of Athens.
• Council also received a copyof revenues and expenses by fund for the month of July as well as bankbalances.
• Additional materials receivedwere the water report for the month of June and a copy of theresolution presented to Carol Bard at the Town Social for her work onpainting the fire hydrants.

Geiger made themotion to approve the bills. McKinley seconded the motion whichcarried.  

Furtherdiscussion was held concerning the Athens Lake fishing proposal. 

The meeting wasadjourned at 8:55 p.m.  

Minutes

August 1, 2006

Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.Council members present were: Mayor Richardson, Geiger, McKinley, andSmith. Bard and Manzo were absent; Hodges was late. Others present wereJeff Harvey from the Princeton Times, Tom Ford and Elizabeth Roth.

The minutes of the July 18, 2006 meeting were approved on amotion of Smith and second by McKinley.

The agenda was amended to include under New Business-SafeRoutes to School and under Old Business-renting ordinances.

Citizen Input:

* Dr. Elizabeth Roth had a prepared statement concerning thecutting of trees. A copy is attached to these minutes. Dr. Ford, aprofessor of Biology at Concord University, is preparing aninformational pamphlet concerning trees. Roth suggested a Tree Board,similar to the one in Bluefield. This Board will be discussed at thenext Council meeting when more Council members are present.

Employee reports:

Officer Urps was not present for his monthly report.

Old Business:

* Geiger presented the information concerning bids for theTown Sidewalk project. Richardson has signed the contract. An order toproceed will be issued when all the paperwork from the bidder isreceived. There will be money left from the grant. Ed Mason, from theDOH, stated that the exact amount of money left should be determinedand then a change of scope must be requested. By the time all of thisis accomplished, the project will likely have to be completed duringthe next building season. Richardson asked Geiger to obtain a contactphone number for work outside the project. The work would involveleveling the sidewalks at the two demolition sights.
* The process of demolition continues at the Boothe property/old Coburnstore.
* The Athens Lake fishing was again tabled.
* The Town of Athens website is up and running. The site will be aprogress in work for some time. Hodges requested that all Councilmembers be present for a group photo for the site. He asked about thehistory and Harvey suggested using the statement from the state cultureand history site. Council felt it should be no longer than two pages.Currently the Town web address is sunlitsurf, but Council hopes to havethe domain of athenswv shortly.
* Geiger will ask the Klines to make a written statement concerning theproperty that they feel is unsafe and with which Council member Manzoconcurs.
* Richardson will do the plot map for the future fire station to begiven to the architect.
* Geiger asked that copies of the Town Ordinances concerning rentalproperty be sent out to rental property owners. Council concurred withthe request.

New Business:

* Geiger explained that federal money is available for theSafe Routes to School project. One million dollars will be received bythe State of WV each year for the next five years to dispersethroughout for this project. Council approved the application on amotion by Smith and second by Hodges. Geiger will prepare an intent toapply form due in November.

Other Business/Mayor Report/Council Member input:

* Hodges asked that the discharge from Ginos be checked.Geiger will ask Mark Parsell to check on the discharge.

Smith made the motion to approve the bills. McKinley secondedthe motion which carried.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:15 p.m.

Robert M. Richardson, Jr. Mayor --- Mary LuGeiger, Recorder