By Jacquie Humphrey
FPS Correspondent
August 19, 2008
Following a brief executive session at the Aug. 12 meeting, Leesville council agreed to seek an alternative method of paying legal council.
Council member Ed Alsept said he inquired of four area attorneys as to their interest in such an arrangement but had a response from only one. Alsept told council that the attorney he spoke with agreed to work for the village at the rate of $150 per hour, with a 1/4 hour minimum charge. He would not charge mileage or expect retirement contributions. The village is now paying a flat rate salary of $300 per month with retirement contributions to the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System.
Council agreed to speak with the attorney of reference at the September meeting and advised current solicitor Jason Jackson he does not need to attend Leesville’s meeting in September. Council agreed to give Jackson the first opportunity to accept the new employment arrangement with the village.
Mayor John Traxler told council and Jackson the decision to investigate other legal advice options stems from council’s desire “to be financially responsible for the village.”
In other business, council:
-LEARNED from Traxler he spoke with the residents who are owners of the problematic chicken that has been running free on village streets and alleys, leading to several complaints. Traxler said the owners have gotten rid of the fowl that was causing problems and that they do not anticipate any further issues. Traxler said he feels this issue has been resolved.
-LEARNED from Councilman Bob Stauffer he had several tree stumps on his property removed at what he feels is a reasonable price and inquired as to whether council would like for him to obtain estimates for the removal of stumps on village property. Traxler reported he believes the village has approximately 16 stumps that need attention. Stauffer will obtain an estimate and report back at the September meeting.
-WAS reminded by Traxler council needs to plant several trees this fall. Some discussion followed. A final decision will be made at the September meeting.
-HEARD third and final reading of an ordinance increasing the mayor’s salary from $60 to $100 per month. The increase becomes effective when a candidate successfully wins a general election.
-HEARD Mayor Traxler inquire of solicitor Jackson how the village can get vacated properties mowed when the owners cannot be located. Jackson agreed to look into locating the property owners in question.
-SET the next meeting for Sept. 9 at 7 p.m. |
