COUNCILS

COUNCILS
HUBBARD
On Monday, city council:
Approved extending water, sewer and electric service to the proposed Flying J plaza on the west side of state Route 62, just north of Interstate 80.
Moved to a third reading on the creation of a joint economic development district, or JEDD, with Hubbard Township for Flying J. The measure is expected to be approved at the Dec. 3 council meeting, making way for the $8.5 million project. Under the JEDD, the plaza will remain in the township and the township will receive the property tax. The city will receive the income tax from the employees and profit through the sale of utilities. The JEDD will include 13 acres on the east side of Route 62 that will be an easement for utilities and land used for a crossover to Route 62 for plaza vehicle traffic.
Moved to a second reading of the 2002 city budget of $12.5 million. It doesn't include an increase in taxes or cuts in services.
Councilwoman Bonnie Viele, D-1st, requested that the law director prepare legislation to create the position of temporary interim superintendent of water/wastewater. Jerry Campana, streets superintendent, will be paid $500 monthly while Kenneth Graban, superintendent of water/wastewater, is on sick leave. Graban has had heart bypass surgery.
McDONALD
On Monday, village council:
Gave first readings to legislation providing 4 percent pay increases to full-time employees and firemen.
The proposed pay-raise ordinances and legislation to create a position of sergeant/detective in the police department will likely be discussed again at council's next meeting.
Approved resolutions recognizing McDonald High School cross-country teams. The boys team won the 2001 state championship and the girls team was sixth at the state meet.
Heard Administrator Robert O'Connell announce that the Christmas tree lighting ceremony will be at 6:30 p.m. Saturday in front of the municipal building. Robert Bodnar, former member of council and other village boards, will light the tree, and Santa Claus will arrive on a firetruck.
Heard O'Connell say that Dec. 12 will be the final day that leaves will be vacuumed at the curb. After that date, leaves must be bagged to be picked up.
Heard O'Connell announce that village offices will be closed Thursday and Friday and that trash pick-up will be delayed one day from Thursday through the rest of the week.