ORIGINALLY WRITTEN JERRY ENGLER
The Chingawassa Days committee lost money on this year’s event, but came away with a supply of scarves and CDs to sell in future years, Susan Cooper told the Marion City Commission Monday.
Cooper, city development director, said carryover of reserves from other years and items to sell are all normal operations that sustain Chingawassa Days in the continual effort to supply a memorable community event with a big-name band and activities.
She said increased advertising, stage rental and insurance costs have all contributed to rising expenses.
Harvey Sanders, utilities superintendent, reported progress on contruction of the 12-5 line around town continues with the Cooperative Grain & Supply elevator to receive 7,200 volts power Tuesday.
Marty Fredrickson, street superintendent, said satellite mapping of the city water system has been completed with pinpointing of valves and parts for future maintenance.
Cooper said the Marion County Commission has signed the interlocal agreement for the city’s Neighborhood Revitalization Program, including an addendum that allows any taxing entity involved to disallow the agreement for any new applications. Applicants already approved would continue their 10 years of property tax refunds for approved rehabilitative or historical site improvements, she said.
City Attorney Dan Baldwin said the addendum reflects a state effort not to permanently bind councils and commissions.
The commissioners approved the June financial statement that Clerk Linda Holub said showed expenses to be in line with budget with half the year completed. She said July and August will continue to be heavy expense months with utility revenue also higher than average.
The commissioners approved the June investment and collateral report.
They approved paying warrants for $183,610.63, which included $79.351.75 for wholesale power to Westar and $67,685 to Mies Construction for sewer-line replacements.
