Routine business handled by council

ODESSA – The Odessa Town Council met Monday night in the community center. Vickie Iverson, Landon Lobe, Kelly Watkins and Marlene Kramer were present; Amy Hunt was absent.

Mayor Bill Crossley called for a motion regarding a request by local resident Don Smith to erect an upright monument at the cemetery in an area that already has several upright stones. After a short debate, the council approved the request. The council then moved on to approve permits for several reroof and fence installation requests.

Police chief Les Jimerson reported calls for debris in the roadway following the wind-driven destruction of a deck at a town residence. There was also a fireworks complaint the evening of the recent Stumpjumpers White Knuckle and Frostbite events, two lockouts, two welfare checks, one missing gun report (later found in a different pocket than the owner remembered putting it into). In addition, there was a report of a vehicle blocking an alley, a civil matter (no crime involved) and traffic stops for failure to stop at stop sign, four speeding citations issued and one equipment issue. One call resulted in a request to Adult Protective Services.

Jimerson also reported little luck with recruiting a second officer for the town marshal’s office, although one more application had arrived that day in the mail. He also said he had found a good deal on a 2015 police car that is identical to his own, only in silver rather than black, for $22,000. The department’s second vehicle, a Tahoe, is having mechanical issues. No action was taken.

Public works director Rod Webster reported the purchase of 18 new grinder pumps for the sewer system, leaving his budget empty right now. He also reported that he submitted an application for a grant for sidewalk repairs.

Attempts to turn on the water at the cemetery were thwarted by a broken check valve and issues with a water line.

Councilman Kelly Watkins reported having seen a press release regarding federal funds being issued to help with payment of utility bills that are in arrears.