New Business:
• Replacement of Town Recorder:  Discussions were held – no action taken
• Empty Council seat:  Bard was given a prioritized list of possible new Council Members who she would ask to serve until the June election.
• Richardson as Consultant to water and sewer plants:  A Resolution to have Richardson served as a consultant to the Town was read and approved unanimously on a motion by Hodges, seconded by Howard.  The Resolution is included with these Minutes.

Approval of Current bills was unanimous on a motion by Manzo, seconded by Howard
The meeting was adjourned at 8:27 PM.

Included with these Minutes are: recycling report, Richardson resolution, police report, Policies and procedures for accounting

______________________________                                             ______________________________
Carol Bard, Mayor                                                                          Attest: Paul Hodges, Council person

New Business:
• Sidewalk Grant Contract for Engineering Services that was submitted by Anderson and Associates was approved unanimously on a motion by Geiger, seconded by Hodges.
• Mayor Richardson submitted a letter of retirement to the Council.  The Council accepted the Letter (which is included with these Minutes) with regret.  Mayor Richardson’s generous offer to assist the Council in water and sewer matters was gratefully embraced.  A motion to accept Carol Bard, Town Recorder as Mayor beginning January 1, 2012 was unanimously accepted on a motion by Richardson, seconded by Smith.

Mayoral reports:
• Richardson reported that letters have been received from The House of Delegates under the sponsorship of John Frazier and notification by Speaker of the House, Richard Thompson, to inform the Town that it will receive a grant of $20,000 for purchase of a replacement of the Town garbage compactor truck.

Approval of Current bills:   Bills were accepted unanimously by Council on a motion by Howard, seconded by Smith.
Adjournment:  Meeting was adjourned at 8:30 PM
Included with these Minutes are: Harvey Resolution, letters from Delegate John Frazier, Speaker of the House Richard Thompson, Water Report for November, Revenues and Expenses for November and Bank Balances for November

Town Employee reports:   Officer Lowe delivered his verbal and written reports. Discussions were held concerning the arrests made, animal control issues and parking tickets issued.  See the included written reports.
Old Business:
• Skate Park:  No report
• EECGB Grant:  Richardson reported that the pre bid conference was held December 5, 2011.  Bid opening is to be held December 19, 2011, at 1:00.
• Sale of old Police car:  Lowe reported that he has not initiated the information for the sale, except to note that it will require a new battery and removal of police stickers and insignia prior to sale.  He will purchase a new battery (approved by Council on a motion by Geiger, seconded by Smith).  Lowe will prepare a report on the cost of removal of stickers as well as the Kelly Blue Book price for the next Council meeting.
• Zoning and Code Violations: Manzo gave a report on the suggestions for improvement of the Ordinances, and Policies and Procedures concerning Code Violations as suggested by Bill Buzzo, Code Enforcement Officer of Princeton.  During the ensuing discussion, Mayor Richardson left the Council Meeting.  The meeting was continued at 8:05 PM with Recorder Carol Bard presiding.
• Stanley Harvey Resolution:  No report yet
• ACTS information:  No report has come from Lynne White concerning the committee’s decision on changing the date of the Town Social.

New Business:
Mayoral and Council Member input:  Bard reported that Anderson and Associates have submitted a contract for the engineering of the Vermillion Street sidewalk repair.
Approval of Current Bills:  Council approved the bills unanimously on a motion by Geiger, seconded by Campbell.
Adjournment occurred at 8:45 PM
Included with these Minutes are: Recycling report, Water report and Police report

___________________________________                          ______________________________
Robert M. Richardson, Mayor                                                  Carol Bard, Recorder.
•
                                      ATHENS TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA FOR JANUARY 3, 2012
The Town Council of Athens, WV, will hold its regular meeting on January 3, 2012 at 7:00 PM, prevailing time, in Council Chambers at the Town Hall.
The Agenda is set forth below:
Call to Order
Reading and approval of the Minutes from December 20, 2011
Town Citizen Input
Town Employee reports
Old Business:
• Skate Park
• EECGB Grant
• Zoning and Code Violations
• Policy and Procedures from GASB 54 Fund Balance
• Sale of Old Police Car
• Trash Truck replacement
• Update on Tim Harvey letter

New Business:
• Replacement of Town Recorder
• Empty Council seat
• Richardson as consultant to water and sewer
• Mayoral and Council Member input

Approval of Current Bills
Adjournment

Carol Bard, Recorder

ATHENS TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FROM NOVEMBER 15, 2011
Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:10 PM.  Council members present were: Richardson, Bard, Campbell, Geiger, Hodges, Manzo and Smith
The Minutes of the November 1, 2011 meeting were read and corrected on a motion by Hodges, seconded by Geiger.
The Agenda was approved as read
There were neither Town Citizens nor Town employees present.
Old Business:
• Skate Park:  Campbell reported that we have a total of $3,000 in the Skate Park account which will be used for construction of features for the park.  The Town will provide a large push broom to be used by skaters to remove any gravel on the asphalt surface.
• EECGB Grant:  Richardson reported that specifications for the proposed Heating/air conditioning system have been revised and new bid rounds have been initiated.
• Zoning and Code Violations:  no report
• Vacation and Sick Leave policies:  Geiger submitted a form which will be used to formalize requests. Possible accumulation of vacation and sick leave hours was read from the Employee Handbook.   No changes were made.
• Sale of old Town Police Car:  No report.
• Security Cameras:  Richardson will request Officer Lowe to investigate possible grants from DEA, Homeland Security and Police granting agencies.
• Town Parks:   Bard reported that maintenance of the playground at the Town Park was performed by 28 Concord students.

New Business:
• Stanley Harvey resolution:  More information is required.
• Holiday bonuses for Town Employees were granted on a motion by Hodges, seconded by Bard.  The amounts will be $200 for full time employees, $100 for part time employees.
• The Athens Town Council unanimously recommends that the Athens Concord Town Social remain on the Second Sunday in August.   
•

Current bills were approved on a motion by Campbell, seconded by Geiger.

Included with these Minutes are Bank Balances, Revenues and expenses for the Month of October.

_________________________________                       _____________________________
Robert M. Richardson, Jr., Mayor                                           Carol Bard, Recorder

   ATHENS TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA FOR December 20, 2011
                                                          REGULAR MEETING
The Town Council of Athens, WV, will hold its regular meeting on December 20, 2011, at 7:00 PM, prevailing time, in Council Chambers at the Town Hall.
The Agenda is set forth below:
Call to Order
Reading and approval of the Minutes from December 6, 2011
Town Citizen Input
Town Employee reports
Old Business:
• Skate Park
• EECGB Grant
• Zoning and Code Violations
• Policy and Procedures from GASB 54 fund Balance
• Sale of old police car
• Stanley Harvey Resolution

New Business:
• Sidewalk grant contract

Mayoral and Council Member input
Approval of current bills
Adjournment

Carol Bard, Recorder

New Business
• Stanley Harvey resolution

Mayoral and Council Member input
Approval of current bills
Adjournment

    ATHENS TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FROM NOVEMBER 1, 2011
Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:05 PM. Council members present were: Richardson, Bard, Campbell, Geiger, Smith, Hodges and Manzo.
The Minutes of the October 18, 2011 meeting were read and approved on a motion by Hodges, seconded by Manzo.
The Agenda was approved with the addition of employee handbook revisions under New Business.
Town employee reports:
• Officer Lowe submitted his monthly report in written and verbal formats.  Highlighted was the fact that he gave 21 speeding tickets and 11 warning tickets for traffic on Vermillion Street. Officer Lowe recommended that we sell the old police cruiser and possibly use some of that income for security cameras throughout Town.
• Michael Sizemore reported that the permit for distribution of solid wastes has been obtained for a new site.  Water plant backwash and copper sediments will require adjustment of procedures at the plant.

Old Business:
• Skate Park:  Campbell reported that Shane visited the present asphalt pad and felt that we should extend that pad up toward Vermillion and possibly build some small features ourselves to fit the current space.  Richardson suggested that the Town might be able to use Boy Scouts to perform further work on the park in the future.
• Sidewalk grant:  Discussion was held on whether or not to use Town crew members to complete the sidewalk up to the Post Office.  
• Zoning and Code Violations:  No report from Manzo
• Traffic Control on Vermillion:  See officer Lowe’s report
• Policy and Procedures from GASB 54 fund Balance:  Richardson will review and report next meeting

New Business:
• On a motion by Hodges, seconded by Manzo, the following wording was unanimously approved to be added to the Employee Handbook:  “An employee may donate their sick leave or vacation time to another employee in exigent circumstances upon the approval of the beneficiary employee’s supervisor.”
• On a motion by Hodges, seconded by Campbell, the Council unanimously approved the attempt to sell the old police cruiser.  Richardson will submit ads requesting sealed bids for the cruiser.

Current bills were approved on a motion by Geiger, seconded by Campbell.
Meeting was adjourned at 8:23 PM
Included with these Minutes are: The Water Report, Officer Lowe’s reports, Rate adjustments and Recycling reports for the month of October.

__________________________________                                ____________________________
Robert M. Richardson, Jr., Mayor                                                Carol Bard, Recorder

Town Employee Reports:
• Officer Lowe submitted both written and verbal reports. He participated in the discussions concerning speeding control, reported that he runs radar continuously, and that he cannot control problems outside of the city limits such as those directly across from the DeliMart.

Old Business:
• Skate Park.  Campbell reported that the sign of rules is in place.  The cement blocks and caution tape can now be adjusted so that the park can now be used.  Campbell will look into obtaining features for the park.  A certificate has been received from the House and Governor’s office for $2,500 for next year.  
• EECGB grant:  The pre bid conferences will be held Wednesday, October 5, 2011,  at 1:00 PM at the Town Hall.  Mayor Richardson encouraged Council members to attend.
• Sidewalk Grant:  Bard reported that 4 engineering firms have been selected for interviews which will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 on Tuesday, October 11, 2011.   Bard encouraged Council members to attend.
• Zoning and Code Violations:   No report.
• Yellow line painting:  Bard reported that the Day Report Center has worked one day and has promised one more day for preparation of curbs.  Two groups of Bonner scholars from Concord have promised work days in the end of October.  Officer Lowe has two persons who owe community service days who can help complete cleanup and painting.
• Second reading of Ordinances: Municipal Service Fee (405.01), Business Service fee (405.02) and Garbage Pickup Fee for Residential Units and Business Outside Town Limits (405.03).  On a motion by Bard, seconded by Campbell, the ordinance revision was approved by acclimation.

New Business:
• Bard reported that ”Mixed Paper” is now being recycled at the Mercer County Landfill.  Adding of these items to the recycling stream was approved by Council by acclimation, with the caveat by the Mayor to keep track of any extra hours required to provide this service.

Mayoral input:
• Richardson reported that one letter requesting permission for a “bucket brigade” for donation collection was refused, but that it may possible outside city limits.
•  A letter was received from Teen Challenge commending Office Lowe’s service.
• A Business license request by Erica Furches for “Beauty and the Beast Hair Salon and Beyond” which will be located at 114 Vermillion Street was approved.

Approval of the Current bills was given on a motion by Geiger, seconded by Smith
The meeting was adjourned at 8:15 PM
Included with these Minutes are: Officer Lowe’s reports, Recycling report, List of “mixed paper” recycling information and water adjustments.

____________________________________                         ____________________________
Mayor Robert M. Richardson, Jr.                                                     Carol Bard, Recorder

New Business
Mayoral and Council member input
Approval of current bills
Adjournment

Carol Bard, Town Recorder

                           AGENDA FOR ATHENS TOWN COUNCIL FOR  OCTOBER 19, 2010
                                                      Notice of Regular Meeting
The Town Council of the Town of Athens, West Virginia, will hold its regular meeting on Tuesday, October 19, 2010, at 7:00 PM, prevailing time, in Council Chambers at the Town Hall, Athens, West Virginia.

Agenda for the meeting is set forth below.
CALL TO ORDER
READING AND APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF OCTOBER 5, 2010
APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
EMPLOYEE REPORTS
CITIZEN INPUT
OLD BUSINESS
• Skate Park
• Town Hall
• Speed limit Resolution
• Web site development
• Yard debris pick up
• Flag Poles and memorial dedication
• Report from Hud McClanhan concerning the draft of the current Ordinances

NEW BUSINESS
• First reading of Ordinance 213.04:  Underage Possession and Purchase of Alcoholic Beverages
• First Reading of Ordinance 503.02: Use of Safety Belt
• First Reading of Ordinance 503.06: Operating Motor Vehicle Without License

OTHER BUSINESS, Mayoral reports, Council member reports
APPROVAL OF CURRENT BILLS
ADJOURNMENT

                                                           Carol Bard, Recorder

New Business:
• Code enforcement concerning unsafe buildings:  Written complaints must be presented to the Council prior to initiation of inspection.  Bard will contact the Princeton Code Enforcement officer for assistance in locating an inspector and to determine the cost of inspections.
• Yellow line painting:  Bard requested that yellow lines and signage for ”no parking here to corner” be added to the west side of the Cooper and Center Street intersection for the traffic control plan.  Council approved this by acclimation.
• Funding for the Athens Town Social:  Richardson will purchase bags for the canopies.

Mayoral Report:  The weed eater to be used by the Town Maintenance crew should be replaced if the present one cannot be repaired, according to Richardson.
Approval of current bills was passed on a motion by Smith, seconded by Campbell.
The Meeting was adjourned at 8:45 PM
Included with theses Minutes are the water adjustments for July, the recycling report for July and Officer Lowe’s written report.

____________________________                                          _______________________________
Robert M. Richardson, Jr., Mayor                                            Carol Bard, Recorder

New Business
• Budgets for water and sewer
• Ordinance revision for garbage collection and dumpster emptying

Mayoral and Council member input
Approval of current bills
Adjournment

Carol Bard, Recorder

New Business
• Code enforcement of unsafe buildings
• Using Scouts for painting homes
• Yellow line painting
• Funding of Athens Town Social

Mayoral and Council Member input
Approval of current bills
Adjournment

Carol Bard, Recorder

                     ATHENS TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FOR AUGUST 2, 2011

Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.  Council members present were: Richardson,

Bard, Campbell, Geiger, Smith and Hodges.  Manzo was absent.

The Agenda was approved as amended with a new business item of Workers Compensation proposals.

There were no citizens present other than Council members.

Town Employee reports:  Officer Lowe presented his monthly report with hours worked, copy included

with these Minutes.  He reported that car repairs were mostly complete.  He requested approval for

attending an inservice provided by the West Virginia Prosecuting attorney.  He will receive 8 hours of

continuing education credit for this class.  He plans to go to Charleston on Friday to deliver evidence for a

case.

Old Business:

?Skate Park:  Richardson gave a copy of suggested information to be included on the Skate Park

sign to Campbell who will adapt the information for the Town.  Bard will bring this information

to Parsell for creation of an appropriate sign. Richardson will have the blocks moved from in

front of the entrance.  Campbell reported that a money raising effort will be made at the Town

Social.

?EECGB grant:  Richardson reported that the building has been measured and specifications for

the plans are being developed.

?Unsafe Houses:  Tabled for this session

?Garbage Truck:  Bard reported that State legislators have been contacted for possible assistance

with funding.  More discussion centered on various options for obtaining a functional truck as

well as possible sources of funding.

?Biting Dogs:  Complaints have been handled successfully by Office Lowe

?Natural Gas drilling by horizontal methods and its possible impact on Town water supply was

discussed.

New Business:

?Purchase of Workers Compensation Insurance Coverage through Brickstreet (which has an A+

rating) was unanimously approved on a motion by Bard, seconded by Campbell.

Mayor Richardson reported that water usage is up due to dry weather and preparation of grassy fields for

sporting activities.  The water leak at the I77 intersection has been repaired.

Bard reported that the Transportation Enhancement Grant has been approved for the design and

engineering phase of sidewalk replacement on Vermillion Street.  Advertisements will be developed as

required by the grant.

Bard reported that the final copies of the revised Ordinances have been delivered, two bound copies and

one copy on disc are present in the office.

Bard requested approval of Council to provide information for publication in the PRINCETON TIMES

newspaper.  Approval was grant by acclimation.

Approval of the current bills was granted unanimously on a motion by Campbell, seconded by Geiger.

Adjournment occurred at 7:45 PM.

 
Included with these Minutes are: Recycling Report – 3528 Pounds collected; Water adjustments report

and Officer Lowe’s report.

_____________________________________                       ___________________________________

Robert M. Richardson, Jr., Mayor                                              Carol Bard, Recorder

New Business:
• Garbage fees

Mayoral and Council member reports
Approval of current bills
Adjournment

Carol Bard, Recorder

New business:  Mayor Richardson reported that a very large water leak has been located under the ramp to I77.  This leak is to be repaired by the Town Crew.
Approval of Current Bills:  Bills were approved on a motion by Campbell, seconded by Manzo.
Meeting was adjourned at 7:58PM
Included with these Minutes are: Revenues and Expenses MTD by Fund for June and Bank Balances as of 06/30/ 2011.

_____________________________________                        _________________________________
Robert M. Richardson, Jr., Mayor                                             Carol Bard, Recorder

                        ATHENS TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA FOR AUGUST 2, 2011
                                                     REGULAR MEETING
The Town Council of the Town of Athens, WV will hold its regular meeting on August 2, 2011, at 7:00 PM, prevailing time, in Council Chambers at the Town Hall.
The Agenda for the meeting is set forth below:
Call to order
Reading and approval of the minutes from the meeting of July 19, 2011
Approval of Agenda
Town Citizen input
Town Employee reports
Old Business:
• Skate Park
• EECGB grant
• Unsafe houses
• Garbage Truck
• Biting Dogs
• Natural gas drilling

New Business:
Mayoral and Council member reports
Approval of current bills
Adjournment

Carol Bard, recorder

New Business:
Mayoral and Council member input
Approval of current bills
Adjournment

Carol Bard, Recorder

Carol Bard, Recorder     

                             ATHENS TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FOR JUNE 7, 2011
Mayor Robert Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:10 PM.  Council members present were Richardson, Bard, Geiger, Campbell and Hodges.  Smith and Manzo were absent.
The Agenda was approved with the addition under New Business of election list
An informational session was given by a representative of One Beacon insurance concerning renewal of property and casualty insurance for the fiscal year.  Athens is a Class IV municipality and is covered for employment practices, property and liability under this policy.  Our premium was $23,899.78 which is a decrease of $52 from last year.  This premium amount was approved on a motion by Hodges, seconded by Geiger.  An additional terrorism premium was approved by Council on a motion by Richardson, seconded by Bard.  
Employee Reports: Officer Lowe presented a written and verbal report.  Specific discussion was given concerning a shooting incident.  An email report concerning disturbances at Chaucer Run apartments was discussed resulting with the emphasis on the need for Town residents to call 911 when any disturbances occur.
Old Business
• Skate Park:  Assistance from the insurance representative will be available for fencing, lighting and signage for the Park.  Richardson reported that the initial paving will commence soon.  Campbell reported Jessica Lilly of Concord University may be able to assist with further funding.
• EECGB: Richardson reports that he had received further information for the plan.
• Garbage Collection and Yard debris:  Geiger submitted a thorough listing of Town of Athens Information which includes the garbage information.  The Council was pleased to have this information which will be sent to all Town service recipients and will be distributed to new customers, as well.
• Transportation Enhancement Grant:  No new information

New Business
• The Town Council authorized the Voter’s Registration Office to print Town of Athens’ eligible in-town voters for the election, on a motion by Geiger, seconded by Hodges.
• Council was adjourned to Executive session on a motion by Geiger, seconded by Richardson.  Council was returned to regular session on a motion by Campbell, seconded by Hodges.

Council Member reports:
• Bard reported that the Town Park has had assistance from the Lions Club in clearing the edges of the paths.  The horseshoe pits are being used regularly.  On a motion by Richardson, seconded by Hodges, the Council approved the establishment of a $20 fee for reservation of the gazebo.

Current bills were approved by Council on a motion by Geiger, seconded by Campbell
Meeting we adjourned at 8:50PM
Included with these minutes are adjustments for April, officer Lowe’s report and Town of Athens Information page.

________________________________________                         _____________________________
Robert M. Richardson, Jr., Mayor                                                          Carol Bard, Recorder

The Agenda for the meeting is set forth below:

Call to Order

Reading and approval of the Minutes from June 7, 2011

Approval of Agenda

Town Citizen Input

Town Employee Reports

Old Business:
• Skate park
• EECGB Grant
• Transportation Enhancement Grants

New Business:
• Canvassing of election results

Mayoral and Council member reports

Approval of Current Bills

Adjournment

Carol Bard, Recorder
                              ATHENS TOWN COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FOR MAY 17, 2011
Mayor Robert Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:10 PM.  Council members present were: Richardson, Bard, Geiger, Smith and Hodges.  Manzo and Campbell were absent.
The Agenda was approved as read.  
Citizen, Donald Poe was present to request and adjustment in his water bill.  Mayor Richardson said that the Public Service Commission sets the regulations for the tariff and has the final say in these cases.  Mr. Poe will be given the contact information to submit an appeal directly to the PSC.
No employee reports
Old Business:
• Skate Park:  The Resolution to commit the Town to support of monies granted by the Community Participation Grant for the multiuse Skate Park was adopted on a motion by Hodges, seconded by Bard.  A copy is included with these minutes.
• EECGB – no report
• Town hall – no report
• P-card policies and procedures.  The policies provided by the P-card bank were adopted unanimously on a motion by Geiger, seconded by Hodges.  A copy of the policies and procedures is included with these minutes.
• Garbage collection and yard debris items were discussed.  Final plans will be discussed in the next meeting.  Maximum size of garbage cans has been increased from 30 gallons to 45 gallons.

New Business:
• A letter requesting that the Department of Highways address the problem of dead pine trees adjacent to Route 20 between Athens and Princeton was read and approved on a motion by Geiger, seconded by Smith.  A copy is included with these minutes.

Mayoral Report:   A letter from Teen Challenge requesting permission to conduct a walkathon in the Town of Athens was approved unanimously on a motion by Hodges, seconded by Geiger.
Current bills were approved on a motion by Geiger, seconded by Hodges.
Meeting was adjourned at 8:07 PM
Included with these minutes are:Revenues and expenses for April, Bank balances for April, and the water report.

____________________________________                 ___________________________________
Robert M. Richardson, Jr., Mayor                                               Carol Bard, Recorder

   ATHENS TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA FOR JULY 19, 2011
                                                                       REGULAR MEETING
The Town Council of the Town of Athens, WV, will hold its regular meeting on July 19, 2011, at 7:00PM, prevailing time, in Council Chambers at the Town Hall
The AGENDA for the meeting is set forth below:
Call to Order
Reading and approval of the minutes from the July 5, 2011 meeting
Approval of Agenda
Town citizen input
Town Employee reports
Old Business:
• Skate Park
• EECGB grant
• Ordinance upgrade with bound and disc copies
• Unsafe houses
• Biting dogs
• Garbage Truck
• Natural gas drilling

New Business:
Mayoral and Council member input
Approval of current bills
Adjournment

Carol Bard, Recorder

New Business: A bill has been received by the Town for insurance coverage of liability, property and vehicular damage for the upcoming year.  Discussion was held concerning the details of the coverage provided by ONE BEACON and developed by the Municipal League of West Virginia.  On a motion by Geiger, seconded by Smith, the Council unanimously approved the cost of $23,820 plus a West Virginia surcharge for this coverage.
Council Member input:
• Geiger questioned the bill submitted by Gary Keaton for mowing services rendered.  Bard suggested that the Town staff help develop a detailed bill for Mr. Keaton to present, so that it would be easily read.
• Geiger reported that garbage pickup has been made difficult by the usage of 96 gallon containers which are too tall to be managed well.  There is also one home which has frequently  had 16 bags of garbage at curbside for pickup.  Geiger will review the present ordinances and submit suggestions for modification of the ordinances or for the development of a remainder letter of the current ordinances for garbage collection customers.
• Geiger will also develop a letter for garbage customers for special yard debride pick up considerations.
• Bard reported that Marilyn Beatty is willing to serve as a poll worker for the June 14, 2011 Municipal election along with Geiger and Bard.

Current Bills were approved on a motion by Campbell, seconded by Geiger, after a discussion on high electric bills.  Richardson said that the pumping stations were running for longer periods of time due to the recent heavy rains.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:45 PM.
Included with these minutes are: a list of adjustments for water and sewer bills, the recycling report, and Office Lowe’s report.

__________________________________                                 ___________________________________
Robert M. Richardson, Mayor                                                                    Carol Bard, Recorder  

Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:04 p.m.   Council Members present were: Campbell, Geiger, Hodges, Manzo, Richardson and Smith. Bard was absent.  Also present were Officer Lowe, Charles Truckenmiller and Clay James.

The minutes of the March 15th meeting were approved as amended on a motion of Hodges and Smith.  The bills were approved at the March 15th meeting on a motion of Smith and Campbell.  

The Agenda was approved as printed.

Citizen Input:
• Clay James was present to complain about Officer Lowe.  Mayor Richardson asked the complaint be put into writing before considerating of the matter.
• Charles Truckenmiller, Mt. Dominion District, Buckskin Council of the Boy Scouts of America, discussed Law Enforcement Career Exploring under the Boy Scouts.  Young men and women ages 14 (and completed the 8th grade) are eligible for this program to learn more about careers in the field of Law Enforcement.  Jake White, a student at Princeton High School, has a group that is interested in this program.  The consensus of Council was that the program sounded good, but requested contact by the BSA to other local law enforcement entities before the Town of Athens was committed.  The matter was tabled.

Employee Reports:
• Officer Lowe gave his monthly report, a copy of which is attached to these minutes.

Old Business:
• Skate Park—Campbell has contacted Sen. Ron Miller about funding.  The Concord Service Council is sponsoring a Community Night Out at the Concord University Carter Center for the benefit of the Skate Park under the direction of Anna Mills Hardy, director of the Beasley Student Center.  Several raffle items will be turned over to the Town to sell at the Annual Town Social.
• Energy Efficient Block Grant-no further information.
• Water and Sewer-no further information
• Election-Council Members, Paul Hodges and Joe Manzo as well as Mayor Robert Richardson will run for re-election.  No other candidates filed.  The election will be held June 14th.

New Business:
• The Levy will be discussed at the next Council meeting on a motion of Geiger, second by Hodges and approved by Council.
• Dakota Pentasuglia an employee at the Wastewater Treatment Plant has passed his Class II certification.  He will receive the raise according to certification completion.  Now that he can run the plant alone, the working hours will be adjusted accordingly.

Other Business/Mayoral Report/Council Member input:
• Recycling-3100 pounds of recycling were collected with 42 pounds of aluminum.  $29 was received for the aluminum.  Total cost of recycling was $334.37.
• Council members received copies of the adjustments for March.

Bills were approved on a motion of Campbell and second by Geiger.  

The meeting was adjourned at 8:32 p.m.

___________________________________        _____________________________________
Robert M. Richardson, Jr., Mayor               Mary Lu Geiger, Acting Recorder

New Business:
• Budget for fiscal year 2012.   Several items on both revenue and expense sides of the proposed budget were discussed.  Further discussion will proceed in the next meeting.
• Water/Sewer upgrade.  Further information concerning probable costs will be gathered for the next meeting.

Other Business:
• The meeting was adjourned to executive session

Approval of current bills was unanimous on a motion by Campbell, seconded by Hodges.
Included with these minutes were Officer Lowe’s report, Water report for January, a list of adjustments made to water and sewer charges, and a copy of the proposed budget.
Meeting was adjourned at 8:45 PM

____________________________________                       _______________________________
Robert M. Richardson, Jr., Mayor                                          Carol Bard, Recorder

Recorder, Carol Bard, called the meeting to order at 7:00PM.  Council Members present were: Bard, Campbell, Smith, Hodges and Manzo.  Richardson and Geiger were absent.
Minutes of the January 4, 2011 meeting were read and approved as corrected on a motion by Hodges, seconded by Manzo.  
The agenda was approved as read.  Neither employees nor citizens other than Council members were present.

Old Business:
• Skate Park.  Paper work for the Skate Park grant for fiscal year 2011 Community Participation Grant has been received.  A 10% matching funds are required for the $2,500 of this grant.  Campbell will begin writing letters to State Representatives and Senators for the 2012 grant cycle.
• Town Hall.  Bard reported that the New Town Hall site and the Skate Park site have both been cleared of environmental hazards.   Hodges reported that Jimmy Lilly continues to work on the proposed budget for construction of the New Town Hall.   Joe Manzo will contact the person in charge of furnishings for Concord University for assistance in determining the budget for new furniture.
• Energy Efficiency Grant specifications will need to be determined by the Town, Bard reports, after consulting with Region I Planning and Development Council.
• Electric Bills.  Richardson reported, by phone,  that the Town Maintenance and Office staff  have located two very large leaks (1 million and 800,000 gallons respectively) that may be partially responsible for high energy bills. Richardson reported that CI Thornburg will assist the Town in ascertaining other sources of water leaks.

New Business: - none
Council Member Reports:   John David Smith reported having spoken the Fire Department concerning water meters at the Fire Department.  Fire Chief, Stanley Harvey, reported that there are two meters presently functioning at the Fire Department – one for the fire trucks and one for the water used in the Fire House itself.  Ms. Thompson reported that these two meters averaged 1,000 and 1,500 gallons of use per month respectively.
Current Bills were approved on a motion by Manzo, seconded by Campbell.
Included with these minutes are Reports of: Revenues and Expenses, Bank Balances, Water Report, Adjustments, and Electric Bill Comparisons for October, November and December.

________________________________                            _________________________________
Robert Richardson, Jr., Mayor                                             Carol Bard, Recorder

Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:05 PM.  Council members present were: Richardson, Bard, Campbell, Geiger, Hodges and Manzo.  Smith was absent.
The Minutes of the December 21, 2010 meeting were read and approved on a motion by Geiger, seconded by Hodges.  
The Agenda was approved as read.
Officer CT Lowe submitted his report in written and verbal form.   A copy of the report is included with these minutes.  Officer Lowe gave on overview of policing in Athens on the request of Manzo.  Lowe reported that Thursday nights were the most problematical when University students were present.   The majority of other arrests and problem individuals were from persons passing through the Town, not from residents.
No citizens other than Council Members were present.
Old Business:
• Skate Park.   Campbell reported no new changes at this time
• Town Hall:    Richardson submitted a partially completed budget.    Hodges reported that Jimmy Lilly would assist in completing an informal estimate of the costs for other budget items.  Material prices are going up rapidly, so the sooner plans can be realized, the less costs would escalate.  Lilly said we should ask for a minimum of $250,000 in grant money to complete the project.
• Bard reported that contacts with Region I Planning and Development Council resulted in the information that processing the EECGB grant would commence in April.

New Business:
• Bard reported that the Mercer County Landfill will no longer accept electronics at the Landfill, but will accept one item per family per day at the Recycling Center free of charge.  On a motion by Richardson, seconded by Geiger, the Council approved that IN TOWN customers be able to put out electronics for pickup on recycling days. Customers must be charged a fee for this service as the Town must pay a fee to the Recycling Center.
• On a motion by Hodges, seconded by Manzo, the formal agreement, between the Town and the WVDOH to perform the steps necessary to complete the Transportation Enhancement Grant for restoration of the sidewalks along East Vermillion Street, was approved.

Current bills were reluctantly approved by Council.  The reluctance occurred over the large increase in electric bills during the last month.  Richardson reported that large water leaks occurred during that period which caused the pumps to run more.   Richardson will look into other possible areas of electrical overuse.

Meeting was adjourned at 7:35PM

_____________________________                                                  __________________________
Robert M. Richardson, Jr., Mayor                                                    Carol Bard, Recorder

Mayor Robert Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.  All Council members were present.
Minutes of the meeting of December 7, 2010 were read and approved as read on a motion by Hodges, seconded by Manzo.
There were no employee reports
There were no citizens present.
The agenda was modified on a motion by Manzo which stated “Since the weather is stormy, the old business items were still to be debated, there are no citizens present, there is no new business, it is moved that the current bills be approved and the meeting should be adjourned.”  The motion was seconded by Richardson.  The motion was approved unanimously.
Following the above motion, there was a brief discussion about the EECGB grant and recycling of electronics at the Mercer County landfill beginning on January 1, 2011.
The current bills were approved on a motion by Campbell, seconded by Geiger.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:20

_____________________________                                     ____________________________
Robert Richardson, Jr., Mayor                                                   Carol Bard, Recorder

ATHENS TOWN COUNCIL  MINUTES DECEMBER 7, 2010

Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:08PM.   Council members present were Richardson, Bard, Campbell, Geiger, Smith, Hodges, Manzo.
Minutes of the November 23, 2010, meeting were approved as corrected on a motion by Geiger, seconded by Hodges.
No changes in the agenda
Employee reports: Water and Maintenance reports were submitted in written form and are included with these minutes.  Officer Lowe was present and submitted his report and hours worked in written form.  He wrote 27 citations and made 4 arrests including one DUI and two drug arrests.
No citizens other than Council members were present.
Old Business:
• Skate Park:  Campbell reported that a resolution to accept the grant for the 2010 Community Participation grant was required for this date.  The resolution was read by Mayor Richardson and was approved by Council on a motion by Bard, second by Manzo.  A copy of this resolution is included with these minutes.  
• Skate Park:  Campbell reported that Representative Frazier reported to her that a 2011 Community Participation grant for the Skate Park has been approved.  
• Town hall:  Richardson has not completed the formal budget.
• Park Committee:  Hodges has completed a cleaning of a section of the exercise path at the Town Park and feels that it appropriate that the Council request the Lions Club to complete this task.  Christmas lighting of the Post Office park has been completed by Lions Club members Jennifer Ford and Carol Bard.
• Transportation Grant for reconstruction of the Vermillion Street sidewalks required an acceptance resolution from the Council. The resolution was read and approved by Council on a motion by Geiger, seconded by Richardson.  A copy of this Resolution is included with the minutes.
New Business:
A Geiger motion, seconded by Hodges, that all Town vehicles be identified with at least block letters TOWN OF ATHENS was approved by Council.
Geiger reported that the solar light for the US flag at the Carruth memorial is not functioning.  The company furnishing the light will be contacted.  
Current bills were approved on a motion by Campbell, second by Geiger.
Reports included with these minutes, as well as those sighted above, were: Recycling and water adjustments.
Meeting was adjourned at 7:45 PM
Robert Richardson, Jr., Mayor                                           Carol Bard, Recorder

John Wolfe
REMAX REALTY
2453 Washington Street
Bluefield, WV 24701
Dear Mr. Wolfe,
Representing the Athens Town Council, I have been asked to inform you that the Town of Athens has a zoning law that governs rental housing in the Town of Athens.  Any property sales that you might represent must reflect these ordinances to potential clients.  Areas that are zoned Residential, among  which the property you presently represent on Burch Street is included, are restricted to be used as rental housing to no more than three (3) unrelated persons unless the owner is an actual resident in the same building.  Noise, parking and disturbing the peace ordinances are also in place.  Our Town police officer will be strictly enforcing these ordinances.   It is only fair that potential buyers of properties in Athens be informed of these regulations prior to purchase of property that is considered for renting.
Please find, enclosed, copies of the ordinances outlined above.  
Best wishes for successful and fully informed sales of properties in Athens.
Please share this information with other REMAX professionals serving the Athens area.

Sincerely,

Carol Bard, Recorder

Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:05 PM.  Council members present were: Richardson, Campbell, Geiger, Smith, Hodges, Manzo and Bard.
The Minutes were approved as amended on a motion by Manzo, seconded by Smith.
The Agenda was approved without revision.
There were no employee reports.
Citizen input:
Two items were brought to the attention of Council by residents of Birch and East Broadway Streets.
• Chris Bone and Kathy Smith spoke for the group concerning a house that is for sale between Birch and East Broadway.  This residence is behind the home of Jimmy Mays and across from Sharon Ofsa.  The exact number of the home was not established.  The understanding was that the sale of this house would entail dividing the residence into 4 rental units.  The neighbors did not want this building to be used in that way.  After consulting Town maps, it was not evident how much of the property is within Town limits and exactly where on the property the building is located. Mayor Richardson volunteered to ascertain how much of the property is in Town limits and where the building is located.  If the building is in Town limits, a copy of the Town Ordinances concerning rental property will be sent to the realtor.
• Randy Belcher presented to Council the concern that excess partying with noise resulting in  disturbance of the peace has been  occurring in rental residences on Birch and Broadway streets.  Richardson will bring these concerns to Officer Lowe.  John David Smith will address these concerns with the Concord police force and will be willing to intervene with any students involved if he is notified.

Residents of East Broadway wanted the Council to know that they were appreciative of the cleaning of curb lines and painting of yellow curbs on that street.
OLD BUSINESS:
• Skate Park:  Campbell reported that the Town has received a contract for $3,500 for the Skate Park funds from the State.  A second copy of the Council Resolution from July 6, 2010 will be sent.  A letter concerning this project will be sent to the new legislators Ellington and Wills in January.
• Town Hall: Hodges presented a copy of a proposed letter to the Hunnicutt Foundation.  The Council was appreciative of his efforts.   Several changes were suggested. A formalized budget
   should be included which Richardson will compose.

New Business:
    Holiday bonuses of $200 for full time employees and $100 for part time employees were approved on a motion by Bard, seconded by Geiger.

Other Business:
                    On a motion by Geiger, seconded by Manzo a Resolution was adopted thanking the fraternity Chi Omega Psi for volunteer work done in the Town.  A copy of the resolution is included in these minutes.
                  Campbell commented on the overrun condition of the asphalt track at the main Town Park.  On a suggestion by Hodges, the Lions Club will be approached to assist in clearing the edges of the path.
                  Campbell reported on a complaint by students that some had been charged a partial towing fee by towing companies for cars illegally parked at Chaucer Run, even though the students themselves moved the cars.  Richardson said that this was standard practice if the towing companies had come to the scene of illegally parked cars even though the cars are not actually towed away.
            Included with these Minutes are: Revenues and expenses for the month of October (water fund in the red), Bank balances for October, and water report for October (water level 41.6” below).
    Current bills were approved on a motion by Campbell, second by Geiger.
Meeting was adjourned at 8:45PM.

_________________________________                   ____________________________________
Robert M. Richardson, Jr., Mayor                                Carol Bard, Recorder.

New Business:
• A letter from Municipal Judge Hud McClanahan was submitted with the latest revision to the Town of Athens Ordinances as well as proposed new ordinances.  

Other Business:
• The Town has been notified that Verizon will terminate its lease with the Town for the communication antenna on the Water Tower beginning on March 31.  This will remove $6,000 of income from the Town Budget.
• Halloween will be celebrated this year on Saturday, October 30th from 6 to 8 PM on a motion by Richardson, seconded by Geiger.

• Included with these minutes are the report by Officer Lowe, the Recycling report and water rate adjustments.

Current Bills were approved on a motion by Geiger, seconded by Campbell
Meeting was adjourned at 8:15 PM

_______________________________________           _______________________________________
Robert Richardson, Jr., Mayor                                           Carol Bard, Recorder

Citizen input – none
Old Business:
• Water and Sewer Rates.  Mayor Richardson reported that the sequence for approval of rates was “on track”.
• Skate Park – Mayor Richardson reported that the Town has not received official authorization from the State level to proceed.
• Town Hall – Hodges was not present for a report.  There was a constructive discussion concerning a public hearing prior to obtaining a loan.  Mayor Richardson reported that the Town has received notice from Region I planning and development Council that the Town will be receiving stimulus funding for a new heat pump to supply the present Town Hall.  
• Memorial flag poles:  Geiger reported that the flag poles and memorial  plaque will be installed so that a presentation ceremony by Geiger will take place on Friday, October 16, 2010,  at 4:30 PM.  There will be a solar light mounted on the US flag pole (cost$150).  Mayor Richardson will give the presentation.  There have been 3 Town of Athens flags ordered.
• Grease Abatement charges have been submitted beginning this month to Concord University.  Charges will include cost of grease disposal as well as charges for Town employee time required.
• Paving of West Vermillion – no changes
• Sidewalk replacement along Church Street.  Manzo reported that the removal of bushes encroaching on the sidewalk has been approved by the Methodist Church congregation.
• Website update – no report

New Business:
• A motion by Manzo, seconded by Smith to begin enforcing the speed limit on State Street at 41 MPH was discussed.  Manzo will submit this as a resolution next meeting.

Other Business:
• Smith, the advisor to the Chi Omega Psi , was pleased to report the fraternity enjoyed spreading mulch at the Town Park and will assist in painting the yellow curbs in town.
• Campbell reported complaints concerning the upkeep of the CVS green spaces.  Geiger will speak to the supervisor of CVS of the citizens’ concerns.
• Bard expressed a concern with the large amounts of yard debris collected at some homes.  Active discussion ensued.

Bills were approved on the motion by Campbell, seconded by Geiger
Meeting was adjourned at 8:15 PM

________________________________                             _______________________________________
Robert M. Richardson, Jr., Mayor                                        Carol Bard, Recorder

Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:03 PM.  All Council Members were present.
Minutes of the August 3, 2010 meeting were read and corrected.  Approval of the minutes as corrected were unanimously voted on a motion by Hodges, seconded by Smith
The agenda was amended to include Vermillion Street paving under old business.
Citizen Input:  4 members of the Chi Omega Psi fraternity were present to offer their fraternity’s ability to assist with community projects that the Town might offer.  It was determined that the fraternity might be best used to assist in laying the drainage pipe and mulch in the playground area of the Town Park.  Other suggested projects included weeding the sidewalks in Town and assisting with development of the Skate Park later in the year.
Employee Reports:  On a motion by Hodges and a second by Smith,  the request for funding for enhanced police car marking be allocated, not to exceed $175, was approved by Council.
Old Business:
• Skate Park:  No report
• Town Hall: Shott  and Hunnicutt foundations will be approached for possible funding
• Water and Sewer Rates:  Second reading of the resolutions to modify the water and sewer rates were approved on a motion Hodges and a second by Richardson.  Copies of these resolutions are incorporated in these minutes.
• Crossing Guard:  Karen Hess has accepted appointment to this post for the 2010-11 school year.  Her uniforms and other necessary equipment will be paid for by the Town.  Geiger will introduce her to the Principal of Athens School.
• Grease Abatement charges:  Richardson will continue to address this concern.
• Town Flag:  The final plans are to be submitted to Rhonda Thompson for procurement of the official flag.
• Flag Poles:  On a motion by Geiger, seconded by Manzo, the Town will obtain a professional person to mount the flag poles.
• Website: Hodges continues to work on this project
• Vermillion Street paving:  Richardson reported that some of the underlying pavement will have to be removed prior to paving.  Parcell and Richardson will consult with the paving company.

New Business:  None
• Other Business:
• Steve Reynolds and Jamie Curry, members of the Town Maintenance staff, have obtained the public water system operator certification.  On a motion of Richardson, seconded by Geiger, the Council voted a $1 per hour raise for each.
• Greg Godwin, pastor of the Methodist Church, will address the problem of the hedges that encroach on the Church Street sidewalk prior to repaving of that sidewalk by the Town.
• Plans were finalized for a retirement party for Judy Muncey on August 31 at 6:00 at Texas SteakHouse.

Approval of current bills was voted unanimously after a motion by Campbell, seconded by Smith

Meeting was adjourned at 8:15 PM

_____________________________                             ________________________________
Robert Richardson, Jr., Mayor                                      Carol Bard, Recorder

Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:04pm. Council members present were: Richardson, Smith, Hodges, Manzo and Bard. Campbell and Geiger were absent.

Minutes of the July 20, 2010 meeting were approved as amended on a motion of Hodges, seconded by Manzo
The Agenda was amended to add West Vermillion Street paving to New Business.
Kitty Saddler of the USDA rural development office was present to speak to Council concerning funding options for the New Town Hall.
Employee reports:
* Police report was given by officer Lowe in verbal and written forms. The written report is included with these minutes. Officer Lowe answered Council member questions concerning specific items.
* Mike Sizemore reported on the results of the smoke leak detection testing that was performed on the last 2 days along all of State Street and Unity Road. 10 small leaks and 6 large leaks were detected. These leaks increase storm water drainage into the sewer system. When these problems are remedied, the Town should realize a decrease in electrical bills which are generated from use of the pumping stations. The Town maintenance crew assisted the sewer plant operators in this investigation.
Old Business:
* Skate Park: Manzo reported that the Hinton Skate Park has wooden jump features. Richardson reiterated that the expected $4,900 in grants will be used to asphalt the State Park Surface
* Town Hall: Bard reported on the meeting with BB&T Loan officers. The written report is included with these minutes. Kitty Saddler reported that the USDA has a community facilities loan possibility. Our median household income was too great to allow grant funding. John David Smith will investigate to see if this income level holds true for the Public Service districts for our water and sewer services. Saddler reported that the process for obtaining a loan from the government is basically the same as from a bank. However, she noted that government rates are presently 4% and will adjusted quarterly. With government funding there are no prepayment penalties, no adjustable rates, no balloon changes and no fees. We are required must have a building commission, insurance on the building and a bond counsel.
* Hodges will write a draft letter for trying to obtain private community grants
* Richardson said that he desires a public town meeting prior to borrowing money for the Town
* Water and Sewer Rates: First reading of Resolutions for both Watrer and Sewer rate increases were presented by the Mayor. No Changes were desired by Council. Copies are included with these minutes.
* Town Parks: No report
* Town Flag: John David Smith presented a revised edition of the flag. The date of 1837, the word founded, a border of the circle to be yellow and the background of the rectangle of light blue were selected for the final rendition on a motion by Hodges, seconded by Manzo.
* Ordinance update and typing: Bard reported on a meeting with McClanahan for finalizing of the copy. The paralegal in his office responsible for the preparation of the document will be charging the Town “scribner’s” fees for the service.
* Crossing guard – no report
* Grease abatement charges: Sizemore and Richardson will meet with Concord officials concerning initiating these charges.
* Enforcement mechanism for sewer ordinances: Richardson reported that he has consulted with McClanahan concerning this matter.
NEW Business:
* Hodges is preparing an update for the Town website. Photos were taken.
* Hodges requested that the Town Maintenance crew repair and/or replace a portion of sidewalk that is located on the west side of Church Street from the corner of Vermillion Street. A photo was presented. Richardson will make such a request.
Payment of current bills was approved by Council on a motion by Smith and a second by Hodges.
Meeting was adjourned at 8:45 PM

________________________________ _____________________________________
Robert Richardson, Jr., Mayor Carol Bard, Recorder

ATHENS TOWN COUNCIL MINUTES
May 19, 2009
Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:04 PM.   Members present were: Hodges, Campbell, Richardson and Bard.  Geiger, Manzo and Smith were absent.  
The minutes of the May 5 meeting were approved  with two corrections, on a motion by Campbell and seconded by Hodges. 
AGENDA:  The agenda was approved with the addition to Old Business of:
• SRTS, and Town park grills.  Added to New Business: a Report on the Springs Road improvements, a Report from the Tree Board, Memorial Day Flags and a Report on the proposed County wide building ordinances.    
CITIZEN INPUT:  There were no citizens present. 
EMPLOYEE REPORTS:   There were no employee reports. 
OLD BUSINESS: 
      Skate Park: no report. 
      New Town Hall:  Mayor Richardson presented  a bill from architect Todd Boggess on work already completed on the New Town Hall. All of schematic phase and 30% of design phase was included.  The invoice amount was $18,392.40.  Mayor Richardson also presented a letter he had written in response to the invoice which delineated the Council’s wish to cease work on the Town Hall project at this point.  This letter is included with these minutes.  No work was to proceed until a written direction from the Council was received by Boggess.   A motion by Bard, seconded by Hodges, was approved stating that this bill was to be paid upon receipt of a letter from Boggess acknowledging that work was to cease until further notice from the Council.   Bard notified the Council that the Governor’s office had denied the application for stimulus money for the Town Hall Project. 
           Ordinance Articles 303, 103.02, 103.06, 603.02 and 607.02 were tabled for this meeting. 
      Safe Routes to School:   The order to proceed has been received for the Caldwell Street Sidewalk Project.  Kenneth Crowe of Stafford Consultants, Inc will prepare the ads and receive the bids.  He will consult with Mark Parsell and Mayor Richardson if necessary. 
      Athens Town Park:  Sharon Johnson of the Park Committee was told that the Council has approved to install one grill on a trial basis, to be purchased by the Lions Club.  Ms. Johnson is to talk with Mark Parsell about the type of grill, location of the grill, and maintenance of the grill as part of the trial.  She will communicate this information to the Lions.  Other grills will be approved upon successful trial of this one grill.
          
NEW BUSINESS
      Approval of workers - for Town Election and Early Election.  A motion by Hodges and seconded by Campbell was approved by Council to select Elizabeth Owen and Mary Mann to cover the two Saturday early elections.  Workers for Election Day are to be MaryLu Geiger, Judy Muncey and Brenda Whittinghill.     
      Memorial Day Flags and Flag Day flags will be placed by Carol Bard.  Mayor Richardson will aid Bard with the Memorial Day flags.  
      Rahall Broadband Initiative was introduced by Mayor Richardson.  Regions I and IV are working together to install a high speed broadband loop.  Planning money is being requested from municipalities and county governments to help pay for engineers for this effort.  A copy of this request and a map outlining the area to be served is included in these minutes.  On a motion by Hodges, seconded by Bard, the Council approved the dedication of  funds, not to exceed $3,000, for the Town of Athens’ contribution to this project.   
      Springs Road Improvement - Bard reported that the request for improvements to the Springs Road curve on CR 7 is progressing. The curve and slope of the curve are being corrected.  Paving is all that remains.  When this project is completed, the Council will consider composing an appreciation letter to the Department of Highways. 
      Tree Board - Bard reported that the Tree Board has visited the homes that are adjacent to trees that have been marked for removal by AEP on North State Street.  The Tree Board offered suggestions for replacement tree options with emphasis on viability and the need for tree care after placement.  There is to be a new set of lines going up North State Street to supply more electricity for a new development up Oxley Hollow/ Mt. Jackson area.  There were no threats by any representative of AEP to the homeowners regarding homeowner responsibility for downed lines or transformers. 
            County Building Code - Bard reported on the County wide meeting concerning the second reading of a proposed Building Code (with Inspectors) ordinance. The ordinance proposal has been dropped by the County Commission. 
      OPEB Liability.   Payment responsibility for the health insurance for retirees covered by PEIA is being shifted from the State government to all those presently paying into PEIA for their employees.  Town of Athens presently has 7 of our 20 employees on PEIA which costs $250/employee/month.  Costs to the Town budget is about $23,000 per year.  Next year the cost to the Town will be $750/employee/month which will impact the budget $54,000 for the year.  Our Auditor suggested that we establish an escrow account for these required funds to cover our liability.  The Mayor distributed the Auditor’s report.  Information about this liability is located on page 35 of this report.  
OTHER BUSINESS 
      Crosswalk Signs - Campbell presented a letter from Karen Griffee with a “formal request” for the purchase of moveable cross walk signs to be used at the two crossings on Vermillion street and one in front of the school to help alert drivers  to stop at these crossing areas during school hours.   Bard felt that such signs could be purchased with SRTS funds.  Bard will speak with Michell Berkey about this proposal.   The letter is included in these minutes.  
APPROVAL OF CURRENT  BILLS: 
      Payment of bills was approved on a motion of Campbell and seconded by Richardson. 
Meeting was adjourned at 8:30 PM 
 
 
Robert M. Richardson, Jr., Mayor                             Carol Bard, interim recorder

Town Parks Commission

Minutes from meeting of April 8, 2010
 
Members present:   Jean Beasley, Griff Griffee, Tom Bone, Sarah Dalton, Kathy Ball, Carol Bard.
 
Items needing attention were prioritized thusly:
 
• Solving the Erosion/Drainage problem in the playground area.  A plan submitted by Carol's daughter Heidi was reviewed by Griff and  Mark Parsell with acceptance of the plan.  Griff will submit an itemized cost assessment for the Council to review.
• Replace the mulch washed from the playground after the erosion problem has been addressed
• Painting of the wooden structures at the parks with wood preservative.  Mark will obtain the necessary supplies.  Sarah and Kathy will determine if the Concord students might participate in helping with this project in or around Earth Day (April 22).  The rest of the group has voluteered to help, as well.  Carol volunteered to get more community help and provide refreshments for the work day/days which are yet to be determined. 
• Horseshoe pit for park - Tom Bone submitted plans and an estimate of about $160 dollars for materials.  Carol will request this money and manual help of the Lions for this project. Problems concerning pole goals sticking out of the ground were solved with the help of the Mayor by using a buried pipe with a screw on cap for removable goals.
• Lions have installed a barbecue grill near the gazebo.
• Tom Bone will donate a cherry tree from his yard for the Skate Park when the fill has been placed.  His father used to own a clothing store on that site, so a plaque in the Bone name might be  appropriate at the base of this tree.
• When planning a barrier - green or fencing - along the Vermillion side of the park to prevent or warn children about running into the street, line of sight should be considered
 
Thanks to all who attended and contributed ideas to this meeting.

ATHENS TOWN COUNCIL MINUTES
February 2, 2010
 
Mayor Richardson called the meeting to order at 7:05 PM.   Members present were: Bard, Campbell, Hodges, Manzo and Smith.  Geiger was absent. 
 
The minutes of the January 18th meeting were ead and approved as read on a motion by Hodges and a second by Manzo.
 
AGENDA:   The agenda was accepted as printed.
 
CITIZEN INPUT:  None
 
EMPLOYEE REPORTS:
 
  Mike Sizemore reported on personnel matters.  The problems with the grease trap construction at Concord is being addressed by Concord with the attempt to obtain a grant for such construction.  There is a requirement by the DEP for a formal letter from an attorney concerning the Copper and Zinc overruns at the plant.  Sizemore is to write the letter which the Mayor will forward to an attorney.
 
  Charles Lowe reported on police activity.  The report is attached to these minutes.  He reported 12 arrests this past month and a total of 157 citations in 2009.  Magistrate Charles Poe's offer to pay for police patches is to be declined with appreciation. 
 
OLD BUSINESS:
 
• Skate Board Park.  Campbell reported that Scott Bird, a Pikeview senior is making the Skate Board Park his senior project.  He will be requested to assist with obtaining persons to sit on the committee from Community Connections Action Forum and possibly to create a model of the proposed park.  Writing of the grant proposal to be submitted by June  to cover the $3,500 was discussed.  The costs of concrete retaining walls and fences or railing for that wall were felt to be a priority. 
 
• New Town Hall:   Hodges reported that he has spoken again with Lilly of Fredeking about the Council's input on ther EXCEL plans.  He has not heard back from them. 
 
• Concord Universtiy Mutual Aid agreement.  The Mayor will accept a call from Mark Stella concerning this possibility.
 
• Town of Athens Accident reports.  On a motion by Hodges, seconded by Campbell the Council voted unanimously to approve the setting of the fees for these reports to be the same as those charged by the city of Princeton. 
 
• Second Reading of Ordinance revision of 609.01.  The second reading was approved by Council with the following revisions:  609.01 B)  removal of the word "codified" in the first line.  Addition of period (.) at the end of the second sentence.  Changing the D and E headings to C and D respectively.  The motion was made by Manzo, seconded by  Hodges.
 
NEW BUSINESS:
 
          None.
 
OTHER BUSINESS:  Recycling Report and Adjustments for December were included in the reports and added to these minutes. 
 
APPROVAL OF CURRENT BILLS was done on a motion by Smith, seconded by Campbell.
 
Meeting was adjourned at 8:10 PM
 
______________________                            ______________________
RobertRichardson, Jr. Mayor                          Carol Bard,  Councilperson

Athens Town Council
Minutes
January 5, 2010 
Recorder Geiger called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.  Members present were: Bard, Campbell, Geiger, Hodges, Manzo, and Smith. Richardson was absent.  Officer Lowe was also present. 
The minutes of the December 15, 2009, meeting were approved on a motion of Hodges and second by Smith. 
Agenda:
• The Agenda was amended to include the Planning Commission under New Business
 
Citizen Input:
• No citizens were present.
 
Employee Reports:
• Officer Lowe gave his monthly report.  He has made several arrests and recovered some property stolen from CVS.  Council was advised that accident reports throughout the state are $25 while The Town of Athens charges $10.  On a motion of Geiger and second by Manzo with approval of Council the fee was raised to $25 for accident reports.  Council asked Officer Lowe to get the police car painted now.  A discussion was held concerning signing a mutual aid agreement with Concord University.  Council will make a decision at the next scheduled meeting on January 19, 2010.  A copy of the report is attached to these minutes.
 
Old Business:
• Skate Park—no present update.
• The speed limit letter being prepared by Manzo will be introduced at the next Council meeting.
• New Town Hall-Hodges will check with Silverpoint Homes about a modular Town Hall.
• The Planning Commission report concerning property setbacks has been tabled again for further refinement.
 
New Business:
• Smith asked that the Planning Commission review zoning mainly in the business area.  Consensus of Council was to approve such a discussion.
 
Other Business/Mayoral Report/Council Member input:
• Bard has purchased additional lights and given them to Michael Sizemore for the Christmas decorations.  The decorations will be removed when weather permits.
• Council received a copy of the adjustments for November.
• Recycling was 3388 pounds with 108 pounds of aluminum selling for $57. A copy of the report is attached to these minutes.
• Geiger will write a letter to the Town Maintenance Crew commending them on their excellent service during the recent snow storms.
 
Bills were approved on a motion of Campbell and second by Geiger.   
The meeting was adjourned at 8:10 p.m. 
 
 
___________________________________        _____________________________________
Robert M. Richardson, Jr., Mayor      Mary Lu Geiger, Recorder 
 
 

Recorder Geiger called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. All members were present: Bard, Campbell, Geiger, Hodges, Manzo, Richardson and Smith.

The minutes of the November 3, 2009, were approved as amended on a motion of Hodges and second by Manzo.

There was no quorum present at the November 17, 2009 Council meeting. The prepared report of the meeting was approved on a motion of Campbell and second by Richardson

Agenda:
* The Agenda was approved as printed.

Citizen Input:
* No citizens were present.

Employee Reports:
* No employees were present.

Old Business:
* Skate Park—Campbell reported that further information had been received concerning the required meeting for obtaining funds. Kelly Hendrick stated that 10 to 20 individuals need to be present. Community Connections will send two employees and a facilitator to the meeting.
* Town Hall clean-up is progressing. A HEPA air filtration machine has been purchased and has been effective in cleaning the air. The filter needs to be cleaned regularly.
* State Street speed limit request has been temporarily tabled. Further information is being sought.
* New Town Hall-Hodges will be checking with Jimmy Lilly on facts and figures for the New Town Hall. He has spoken with Lilly and Jack Fredeking. Hodges had to prepare new drawings to fit the modular format. He will try to check the Amish facility in Beaver/Beckley

New Business:
* The planning Commission report concerning property set backs has been tabled for further refinement.
* Suddenlink Tax—the first reading was held.
* Revision of Town Ordinances, Article 407—the first reading was held. The Ordinance is being revised to clarify wording and intent of Article 407.

Other Business/Mayoral Report/Council Member input:
* Geiger made the motion that the Mayor has authority to appoint a substitute crossing guard. Manzo seconded the motion which carried.
* Manzo reported a citizen inquiry concerning dangling wires from a few telephone poles. Appalachian Power is responsible for these wires and will be contacted. They are probably cable.
* Recycling Report—4240 pounds of recycling were collected in November including 115 pounds of aluminum, realizing $52. No overtime hours were incurred.
* Geiger reported that the question on the gas bill was a fee for processing and has been charged to the Town for several months.
* Council received a copy of the recycling report, adjustments for October and a water report for October.

Bills were approved on a motion of Smith and second by Campbell.

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

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

Members present were Campbell, Geiger and Richardson. All other members of the Council were absent. Also present were Missy Cole and Terry Choate.

As there was no quorum present, a meeting was not conducted.

The Council listened to Missy Cole and Terry Choate and told them how to proceed with the projects that they had questions about. Cole was asked to write a letter to Council to consider further input on her project. Choate was asked to get a building permit.

Campbell and Geiger perused the current Town bills. They agreed that they should be approved. Richardson concurred. Bard will be asked to review the bills and if she approves they will be paid.

________________________________________
Robert M. Richardson, Jr., Mayor

________________________________________
Mary Lu Geiger, Recorder

Recorder Geiger called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Members present were: Bard, Campbell, Geiger, Hodges, Manzo, and Smith. Richardson was absent. Officer Lowe was also present.

The minutes of the October 6, 2009, were approved on a motion of Bard and second by Hodges.

Agenda:
* The Agenda was amended to include correspondence from the PMCCC as well as Region I and Village Profile under new business.

Citizen Input:
* No citizens were present.

Employee Reports:
* Officer Lowe gave his monthly report. A copy of this report is attached to these minutes. He conducted a speed log on Vermillion Street and WV Route 20 with no significant speeding noted. The report stated that he had written 5 warning citations and 25 traffic citations. A discussion was held concerning the speed over the limit at which citations should be given. Council members present felt that over ten miles per hour over the limit should be cited. Further discussion will be held regarding speed. Council does not want Athens identified as a speed trap, but is also deeply concerning about citizen safety. Officer Lowe was asked to obtain bids on painting the police cruiser. $3018.60 has been spent on the cruiser to date.
*

Old Business:
* Skate Park-Funding issues are being addressed.
* SRTS—There is a meeting being held in Flatwoods, WV on October 23rd concerning future grants.
* Suddenlink Contract-A discussion is being held between Richardson and Suddenlink.
* Town Hall clean-up is still progressing. An air purifier has been purchased for the Town Hall office to help with the breathing conditions within the Town Hall.
* State Street speed limit. Further discussion was held with Council consensus that the speed be lowered to 30 mph and not 25 mph. Mark Parsell, Town Maintenance Supervisor, states that the distance in question is eight tenth of a mile. Manzo plans to write the letter to the DOH.
* Bard has received information from Parsell concerning the cost of replacing sidewalks on Vermillion Street. All members received a copy of this report. This information will aid in the application for a TEA grant.
* New Town Hall-Hodges asked that we carefully look over the plan that he presented. Officer Lowe presented additional plans to be discussed further.
* Junk cars were discussed. Officer Lowe will check on the vehicles at 120 Caldwell Street for legal registration and sticker. A copy of the Ordinances regarding this was given to him. Manzo reported a vehicle with three flat tires on East Concord Street. This vehicle is considered unable to be driven. Lowe will check.

New Business:
* No Planning Commission report was available.
* Region I sent information concerning a block grant for energy efficient building, EECBG grants,
* Village Profile sent a request for an advertisement on the new Princeton/Bluefield maps. Council declined the request.
* PMCCC, Princeton Mercer County Chamber of Commerce sent a request asking that we vote for the Board of Directors. Council declined the request.

Other Business/Mayoral Report/Council Member input:
* Members received a copy Revenues and Expenses for September as well as Bank Balances for the same period.

The payment of bills was approved on a motion by Campbell and second by Geiger.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:08 p.m.

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