The Salem City Council has increased the cost of water tap on fees.
Public Works Director Travis Sanders sought the increases because of rising material costs. A quarter inch tap will cost $400 more at $1,500, a one inch tap will cost $1,100 more at $2,500, and a two inch tap will cost $2,200 more at $6,500. Bigger taps will be the cost of materials plus five-percent.
City Manager Annette Sola noted the cost increases are only for new water taps and are one time only expenses.
The council approved vacating a section of Jefferson Street between Mitchell Street and the railroad tracks that was never developed. An east-west alley behind the 1000 block of West Main off Vincent Street was also vacated. Even though there is a power pole in the middle of the alleyway where it begins on Vincent Street some drivers still try to use it driving on private property.
A new tractor with side boom mower was purchased for the landfill at a cost of $123,389 plus trade in of the existing tractor and mower. The council then surplused a gas department backhoe, a zero turn mower at the animal control facility and a large air compressor in the mechanics shop. The city will now seek bids to sell the surplus equipment.
Mayor Nic Farley announced he is looking for those interested in joining the Planning Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, and Bryan Bennett Library Board. Those interested in serving are asked to drop off a letter of interest at city hall.
