Council challenged to be more timely
Auditors say report good overall
Staff writer
Being more timely in bank reconciliation, submitting taxes and, paying bonds were challenges given to city council members by auditors at Tuesday’s meeting.
Knudsen, Monroe & Co. of Newton reviewed audit findings and gave recommendations.
An item to note was a historic fund balance comparison.
“Even five years ago, the balances weren’t where they are now. Good job,” a company representative said.
Councilman Travis Wilson said there would be two special budget workshops, at 7 p.m. July 10 and July 24, at city hall.
Resident Kenny Rogers expressed frustration with the police department and his renters.
Joann Berg read a written statement questioning whether tax dollars were collected and deposited into departmental accounts.
She also requested information on whether Peabody street and speed limit signs were in compliance with state statutes. The council will investigate.
Michael Hurst asked and received permission to allow his softball team, which will be host for a tournament Aug. 3 and 4, to use the park for campers and tents for teams.
The council received a statement from Marion County Community Economic Development Corp, asking for past due and current charges that the board had previously approved to pay.
Wilson said he didn’t want to pay dues until the group hired a director. It is interviewing a candidate this week.
“I’m hesitant to give the money until they get someone hired,” he said.
The item was laid over until the next meeting.
Mayor Larsen said there had been questions on trash removal in weeks with holidays.
“The trash cycle is every Friday unless Friday is the holiday. Pick up will not be affected by other holidays,” he said.
He requested approval to paint the city office’s reception area and to add a security window for the safety of city employees.
It was agreed he could paint, donating his time. Further information was needed before approving security construction.