ATTICA - A recent tragedy of a fatal fire in the Attica-Republic area has brought the best out of neighbors.
An effort headed by Councilman Jeff Painter to collect donations to provide smoke detectors to community families has resulted in many donations. He contacted businesses in Attica, Republic and New Washington. Friends and strangers gave him money when they learned the need.
Painter initially purchased 100 detectors to present to families attending the community Christmas gathering at the fairgrounds. Batteries were presented to families with existing smoke detectors. Fifty more now are available to be provided to Republic and Attica senior citizens.
Painter plans to contribute remaining funds to AVR Fire Chief Brett Meyers' "Safe Home for Families" fund. The program would like to collect enough money for another 1,000 detectors and provide them to all families in the Seneca East School district.
Painter thanked everyone for their donations.
He also announced to other council members Thursday night that next year's farmers' markets are to be take place in the town center area on the first Saturday of each month from July through October. Interested vendors may contact Painter at (419) 426-7200.
Painter said Roe's Tree Service had trimmed two trees recently and cut down five more and removed the stumps.
Police Chief Keith Turner reported Officer Jennifer Boucher participated in the "Shop with a Cop" program sponsored by the Fraternal Order of Police and pictures have been posted on the department's Facebook page.
Fiscal officer Pat Krebs stated a total of $726,542 is in all funds as of Nov. 30.
Village Administrator Greg Martin announced an upcoming meeting with Gateway Tank to discuss the aeration process for the village water tower. He also noted new employee Jaret Halbeisen is doing a good job while apprenticing in the water lab for 30 days.
Only three council members were present, therefore no official business could be conducted.
In other matters, council:
Heard the third reading of a resolution for a replacement tax levy for providing police protection and requesting certification from the county auditor.
Heard the third reading of a resolution for a replacement tax levy for proving park operation and requesting certification from the county auditor.
Heard the second reading of a resolution approving 2013 appropriations totaling $1,560,195.
Heard the second reading of an ordinance establishing pay rates village employees effective the Jan. 18 payroll.
Heard the second reading of an ordinance suspending the 3 percent annual increase in water rates for 2013 only, effective Jan.1.
Discussed the clean-up of a ditch flowing through the village to Honey Creek.
Noted additional lights on the village Christmas tree were provided by the CIC
Council is scheduled to meet next at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 27.
