Bronson raises meter security deposits

Bronson's City Council on Sept. 9 voted to increase the meter security deposits for electric and water.

"It was due to the fact of bills being increased since last deposits (amounts) were set and there is approximately two months owed when services are disconnected," City Clerk Ellen Harper said. "Meaning (utility) rates have increased over the years so monthly bills are higher and when you bill after usage, there is approximately two months of usage owed when services are disconnected,"

Police Chief Dave Harper submitted information to the council and several quotes to replace the city's storm sirens. The city needs a more dependable system, with battery backup and radio activation, and is checking sources for grant funding to help defray costs.

The water system project is progressing. Water line contractors have completed a couple of change orders on the water Improvements project. The contractor working on the tower is scheduled to commence in October. The city council paid BG Consultants, Water Project Engineering, bill No.10, $9,598.67 and bill No.12, $2,959.78 and Data Technologies Inc., was paid the remainder on meter reader software and installation, in the amount of $920.

A citizen, Mary Abbott, asked the council if the street light at the southwest corner of the park was going to be repaired. Maintenance Superintendent John Stokes said the contractor fixed the pole this week and he will be getting a new light installed soon.

In other business:

* Stokes reported he has been working with contractors doing tree trimming over electric lines.

* Council members were encouraged to attend the Moran Generation Formula Rate meeting to discuss proposed changes to the power supply agreement, which is on Sept. 23.

* The new credit card equipment has been installed and the city can now accept payment with credit cards.

* New park playground equipment has been purchased with donated funds.

* Notices on violation of the weed ordinance are still being sent by the city.

* Councilwomen Linda Neville and Geri Reeder were appointed to get recommendations to consider for incentives for citizens to improve properties and keep yards clean.

* The council discussed a concern about a resident who expressed interest in building a pond, possibly for cattle or sheep, on property recently purchased within the city limits. Council concerns were problems with being in the vicinity of sewer lines; changing a natural waterway for town storm drainage; going through an alley and unimproved street; dangers of small children in the area. The council decided to contact Kansas Department of Health and Environment on regulations and to send the property owner a letter outlining the concerns and asking to discuss the matter further.

* Voted to send a letter requesting the property owner of property located at 612 Linn St. to clean and mow the yard, remove a couch from the porch and repair a hole on the porch.

* The council learned that cities can post ordinances on their website and only a summary of the ordinance in the newspaper. The council voted to combine the city with the library website to post ordinances and important information. The council will also setup a Facebook page to post activities, news and events.

* The council approved a one-year maintenance contract for $350 with Modern Copy Systems.