By Gary Dickson

The Jefferson City Council convened for its regular monthly meeting on February 3, at City Hall. Mayor Paddy Rigg called the session to order at 7:00 p.m., with all council members present. The meeting covered financial reports, insurance policy reviews, personnel changes, and city maintenance updates.

Financial Overview

The council reviewed the city’s financial statement, reporting a total fund balance of $204,553.11 as of January 31. A motion to approve the financial statement was carried.

Unfinished Business

City Attorney Sabrina LaFleur-Sayler previously announced her departure from Crary Huff Law Firm, affecting her role as city attorney. She recommended Darrell Jesse as a possible replacement, contingent on changing the regular meeting schedule. The council discussed potential adjustments, which would require an ordinance change per the SDML Handbook.

With upcoming elections, Mayor Rigg’s term and three council positions are set to expire this year. The council members are: Council Member Ward I- Stokely, Council Member Ward II- Boulware and Council Member Ward III- Lokhurst.

Insurance Policy Review

Brad Antonson of Jensen Insurance presented the annual review of the city’s insurance policies, including property, liability, crime, inland marine, automobile, and cyber coverage. The council noted an 8.6% inflation-driven increase in property insurance costs. EMC Insurance initially planned to drop coverage on the Community Center roof due to its age but rescinded the decision after an inspection by Dave’s Roofing confirmed its good condition.

New Business

The council scheduled its annual Board of Equalization meeting for March 18, at 7:00 p.m.

A motion was passed to declare the city’s 2019 Dodge Durango surplus property. Sealed bids will be accepted until 1:00 p.m. on March 3, with bid openings set for that evening’s meeting.

The council approved a property tax abatement for a qualifying veteran who had missed the application deadline for an exemption.

Personnel Changes

A closed executive session was held to discuss a personnel matter. Upon reconvening, it was announced that William Manger, Water and Wastewater Treatment Specialist, retired as of January 31. The council expressed gratitude for his years of service and discussed hiring him part-time to assist with water plant operations.

Department Reports

Police Department

Chief Sharkey reported various incidents, including traffic stops, animal calls, and agency assists. Notably, a stolen truck was returned without charges, and a vandalism case at 709 Main Street was dismissed as the property owner declined to pursue action. The department’s new Ford F-150 is fully equipped, and the outgoing Durango has been stripped of decals.

Street, Water, and Parks Departments

• Plans for spring and summer street repairs were discussed.
• The water and wastewater systems are operating normally.
• The Parks Department removed Christmas decorations and considered locations for new basketball hoops in town.
• The city’s final lagoon payment of $2,870.89 will be made on April 15.

Upcoming Deadlines and Adjournment

City Hall will be closed on February 17, for Presidents’ Day. The deadline for filing nomination petitions for the upcoming election is February 28.

Following approval of the city’s monthly expenses, the meeting adjourned at 7:44 p.m. The next regular City Council meeting is scheduled for March 3.

Updated Feb. 28, 2025

---