Long-time Madison City Fire Chief Tim Melton submitted his letter of resignation during the Madison City Council meeting on November 6. Melton advised the council there was no specific reason for his resignation, just that it was time for him to step down from that position that he has held for several years. Mayor Paul Dean expressed appreciation for Melton’s years of service and the letter was accepted. Melton stated he will stay on as a volunteer in the fire department and that the fire department will present who they elect as the next fire chief to the council for final approval.
Tony Haag presented an update on the ball field. He presented budget updates to the project. He stated a return of $708.96 to the city from the Home Plate Project. He had recently filled out a grant application to the Emporia Community Foundation and will receive $6,000 from that grant. Haag also advised that he did take the fence that was removed to Advantage Metal in Emporia and gave the receipts to the Deputy Clerk. He told the council, in detail, about those that have donated and the work that has been done to the ball field so far. Haag mentioned that there was no electricity ran to the batting cage to complete that project, as it would have been an extra expense. Haag also stated that all the money that was invested by the Home Plate Project with the Emporia Community Foundation, had lost about $4,000 in the stock market. Haag advised that he will be putting on a basketball tournament for the Home Plate Project and asked that Madison look at putting teams in.
Deputy Clerk Cassondra Jordan stated during the treasurer’s report that Agler & Gaddert asked if the city would like direct deposit for the payroll checks, instead of having to go and pick up the checks in Emporia. Jordan stated that she is not sure if there is an added cost. It was approved by the council.
Shannon McGrath, Madison City Lake Camp Host, has resigned. Council member Jenn Boles asked if she had given a reason. Jordan reported that McGrath had explained this was due to treatment by people staying at the lake and a lack of communication among other city employees.
The city approved the renewal of Casey’s cereal malt beverage license. The city approved a s i x - mont h extension for a previous violation. The city reviewed a n application for demolition on Boone Street. Dean asked that the clerk get bids for demolition.
The city reviewed COVID leave pay and the council discussed what the continued policy would be. Council member Bekah Leach advised that she feels this policy should sunset at this time. No vote was made on this item.
The city discussed the removal of the playground equipment at the elementary school which was donated to the city by the school. Dean advised that bids should be sought to have it removed, as he feels this is too much to ask the city workers to tackle by themselves. Boles believes that it should go to the lake and Dean felt that it should go to the park. Boles asked that the city look at removing the slide that is damaged, from the park. Dean then suggested that the slide in storage be installed.
The council was slated to meet on Monday of this week. The Madison City Council meets bi-monthly on the first and third Mondays of the month at 7 p.m.
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