At the California City Council meeting Monday, April 1, a black wreath graced the seat usually occupied by Ward II Alderman Kelly D. Messerli, who died Sunday, March 31, and Mayor Norris Gerhart opened the meeting with a moment of silence to remember him. Prior to the opening prayer, the Rev. Greg Morrow, pastor of First Baptist Church, spoke of how Messerli will be missed by his family, his city and his country.
During the regular session, Gerhart also spoke briefly of Kenny Vaughan, who died less than two weeks ago and how he took a lot of chances for development of the town that others would not have done.
In regular business, the council took up a trash truck issue, the water well repair, sewer lift station work and lagoon repair.
After discussion, the aldermen approved the repair of the 2008 city trash truck authorizing Supervisor Rick Graham to use his best judgment for the good of the city. The city trash pickup is struggling with the single truck and the city-wide cleanup is scheduled for April 8 - 12. Al Schepers Motor Company was not able to provide an actual estimate, giving a range of repair costs from $5,000 to a "worst case scenerio of $25,000."
Since the city is less one truck, the cleanup may take longer than usual.
Water and Wastewater Supervisor Kyle Wirts reported that Well No. Seven is back in operation and producing 1,000 gallons a minute and that all the water lines are in along the new sidewalk project and have passed inspection.
The council approved an emergency repair, consisting of a complete overhaul of the sewer lift station on Gerhart Road. The cost is $15,900 for a "turn-key" project. It is currently operating on a makeshift repair.
The sludge removal is near completion in the East Sludge Basin is near completion. When that task is finished, Twehous Excavation will begin the clay seal repair.
The council also approved the fiscal 2014 budget ordinance.