Sandy Dunn, president of Main Street’s executive committee, first gave council a history of the organization, touting its accomplishments during its 21-year existence and citing its contributions to Point Pleasant in the form of various grants the group secured to fund local projects. Dunn cited the riverfront park, streetscape project, river museum, Main Street paving project, Krodel Park light show, attracting riverboats to the Point Pleasant waterfront and current renovation of the Kisar House as some of Main Street’s major accomplishments. She also told council that Main Street has won several state tourism and economic development awards.
According to Dunn, the city provided $10,500 annually to support Main Street, which amounted to about 20 percent of the agency’s budget, which totaled $51,544.11 in 2009. However, the city was forced to cut that funding to just $4,500 for 2010 due to budget constraints. Council member Sam Juniper cited the need to provide better wages for employees as one reason for cuts in contributions to Main Street and other local tourism organizations. Council member Gary Cotton said the city is also facing decreasing B&O tax revenue because some businesses have relocated outside city limits.
Council member Bob Doeffinger thanked Dunn for addressing council, stating that it was the first time anyone from Main Street had provided city council with an update about the agency’s budget. He asked if it would be possible for council to receive regular updates from Main Street regarding its financial status. Dunn said she would be glad to do so.
Council took no action on Dunn’s request.
Council approved a revision of the city’s Internet policy at the request of Police Chief Ernie Watterson, who pointed out that disciplinary action for police officers is governed under civil service rules and regulations. The policy previously approved by council did not include a separate provision for disciplinary action for police officers.
Council paved the way for the bid process for a new mower to begin. Mayor Brian Billings said it was brought to his attention that the city requires a third mower to help keep up with the work of mowing cemeteries and that a heavy duty mower had been recommended. The estimated cost of the mower is $7,900.
Council voted to inquire about possible penalties for moving funds paid into a police pension fund managed by Bank of America back into the city’s general fund. According to City Clerk Amber Tatterson, $239,000 is in the account. She said she spoke with a Bank of America representative who informed her that there would be no penalty, but council wants to have that guarantee confirmed in writing. Tatterson said transferring the funds would essentially mean the city is reimbursing its general fund.
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