Grayville is set to welcome a new police officer to its force. During a meeting on Monday evening, city leaders unanimously agreed to hire Zach Coale, effective May 1st. This position comes following the dismissal of Officer Carlton Valiant earlier this February. Last week, leaders held a special meeting to discuss a settlement with the union, which included a Non-Disclosure Agreement regarding the matter.
In other business, the council approved the purchase of a new 2025 Dodge truck for the Sewer Department. Jansen Ford submitted the winning bid of $45,446. This purchase is already accounted for in the budget, along with a salt box and blade, which may be necessary for the new vehicle expected to arrive in a few months.
Two assistance requests were tabled during the meeting. The first came from the Grayville Moose Lodge, which is facing electrical issues as it prepares to celebrate its 65th anniversary this April. Rick and Sandra Irvine, past president and trustee of the lodge, highlighted the organization’s critical philanthropic work and estimated that repairs would cost around $8,000 to $10,000.
The second request was from First Christian Church, which is seeking $92,000 to repair its roof. Former Commissioner David Jordan, an elder at the church, explained that while they have raised about half of the needed funds, they are requesting assistance through TIF funding. City Attorney Jay Walden expressed concerns about this request, leading the council to table the matter for further discussion with their TIF consultant from Moran Economic Development.
In addition, the council has set new trash rates effective April 1st. Following a contract agreement with Sunrise Sanitation that included rate increases, the council decided on a monthly rate of $21.25 for the next year, an increase of approximately $4.50 from the previous rate.
The council approved the purchase of new sewer pumps. Following changes in specifications, the cost for each pump has risen to $78,895, up from the previous quote of around $63,000. Mayor Travis Thompson noted that the initial pumps were likely purchased to save money, which contributed to their early failure.
The meeting featured reports from engineers Rex Gower of Milano and Grunloh Engineering, as well as Scott Irvine with Grayville Utilities. Finance Commissioner Andi Ford reported that she is actively exploring grants and FEMA funding in hopes of one day constructing a storm shelter for the community.
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