Another funding source for rec trail discovered
By Janell Bradley
As IIW Engineers complete the details for extending the rec trail from the city limits to connect with the Volga River Recreation Area, the City of Fayette has discovered another resource for potential funding.
City Administrator Christie Dennis reported Monday night she and Jamie Hurst have been collaborating on the application. A $75,000 grant is being sought through the Land & Water Conservation Fund program. If funds are granted for the recreation trail, the money would be used for a gazebo, two-story lookout tower, and two picnic tables.
As part of Monday's City Council meeting, the council held a public hearing on the proposed City budget, which calls for a levy of $15.18 for FY2014, up 8 cents from the current year.
The City adopted a budget estimate of $3.5 million in expenditures and $3.7 million in revenue.
As part of the detailed budget provided to council members in advance of the public hearing, it was noted that local option sales tax receipts dropped by $97 in FY2012. That's the first time it has dropped since it began in the city. Thirty percent of local option sales tax income is used to repay the Bolger Fund each year until the $200,000 borrowed for the sports complex and trail is repaid. This coming year will be the ninth year of repayment. Estimated LOST revenue toward that cause is $28,206 in the next year. The Lions Club is making payments of $1,125 per year for the sports complex donation made in October 2005.
"We have a balanced budget, unlike the federal government," noted Dennis, as the council moved for its approval.
In other discussion, the council approved a resolution that amends city fees. Included is removing the $8 park camping fees for those not using electricity at Klock's Island (there will now be one flat fee of $10 for any camping); adding snow hauling at $135 per hour; and lowering the mileage rate reimbursement allowance to 56¢ per mile.
As part of the clerk's report, Dennis noted IDOT plans to seal-coat Highway 93 this summer. Because the City has been unable to locate a company willing to do slurry seal, IDOT will seal-coat the portion of the highway that is in the city limits.
In other discussion, the council approved a proposal from Lloyd Carnicle to have a vehicle “Show & Shine” on Main Street on the third Thursday evening of the month during the summer (May – October) from 6 to 9 p.m.
Carnicle presented the council with a petition of agreement from the downtown businesses. The event is not a car show. He hopes to bring people downtown to introduce visitors, to the business community and give the local restaurants and bars additional business.
A two-block area will be closed off if the number of cars warrants it. A similar display has been held in Oelwein.
Among the notices printed for the council was one that the Fayette American Legion is holding a blood drive from 1 to 6 p.m. Monday, March 11. Persons can call 1-800-RedCross for an appointment.
Councilman Braulic Caballero was absent Monday.
The next City Council meeting will be held Monday, March 18.