The Centralia City Council Monday night amended the employment agreement with Police Chief Christopher Locke. It gives him the same vacation benefits as the highest ranking officers. The city will also contribute 10-percent of his salary to a pre-tax deferred compensation plan since Locke is not eligible for the police pension or IMRF programs. Locke will also be eligible for a bonus or salary adjustment based upon his job performance.
The council honored Sergeant Gary Denton on his retirement after 21 years of service. Denton, who came to the Centralia Police Department from the probation office, said Centralia was the only department that he applied and recalled how helpful past members of the department helped him in the early days. Denton has now taken a job with pre-trial court services and will be supervising those left out on bond pending action on their court cases.
At the request of Marion County, the council approved a resolution in support of broadband service for all of Marion County.
A one year contract extension was approved with Metro-Ag to dispose of sludge from the waste water treatment. It will be injected into nearby farm fields.
City Manager Kory Smith announced construction would stop on Gragg Street Road for Balloon Fest weekend which will allow that route to be used for entry to Foundation Park. However, he warned the pavement may be rough.
A cleanup of the city is scheduled for Tuesday night ahead of Balloon Fest. Those who want to help are asked to gather at the Centralia City Hall parking lot at six Tuesday night.
