Staff writer
Peabody Mayor Larry Larsen appointed 16-year city council veteran Steve Rose to fill a vacancy Monday night when Bob Knapp submitted his resignation at the end of the meeting. Knapp declined to provide a reason for his resignation.
“I asked Steve to consider returning because I think we need someone with experience,” Larsen said. “With two brand new members and one appointed only a year and a half ago, Steve can bring history and understanding to some of the issues we are facing.
“He went through the water and sewer projects and many other city issues. He told me he’d be willing to continue to help,” Larsen added.
Travis Wilson was elected to fill Knapp’s position as council president.
Jan O’Neil also submitted her resignation as municipal court clerk and diversion/probation officer. The city will seek candidates to fill her position.
In other business:
- Peabody Police Chief Bruce Burke reviewed recent damage to the new police car. Two tires on the car were slashed on two occasions. A third incident left the car with a dented door and broken windshield. Burke said the case had been turned over to Marion County Sheriff’s department. A suspect and a person of interest have been identified.
- David Spechtenhauser attended the meeting to request assistance regarding roadwork on Prairie Lawn Rd. in front of his house. Due to changes in gravel distribution over the years, his driveway and walkways now get buried in dirt, silt, and gravel when Peabody is hit with heavy rains. Larson and Interim Public Works Superintendent Ronnie Harms will meet with Spechtenhauser next week to find a solution.
- Swimming pool manager Beth Peter said the new liner at the wading pool has begun chipping away in several places. There also are spots on the wall in the deep end of the big pool where swim team members push off against the wall when they are turning into a new lap. Repair to the pool liner in May by W. Germaine Company carries a 15-year warranty. City Clerk Stephanie Lago was instructed to contact the company and have them come look at the problem.
- Council members went into executive session twice to discuss personnel. The resignation of Jan O’Neil was accepted following one executive session and no action was taken following the second.