Once Again, Vandalism is on the City's Agenda

Malta City Council opened at 5 p.m. on Tuesday; joining the Mayor and board members were Terry Hotchkiss and Dennis Fitzgerald (YDI). Following the pledge to the flag, motions to approve the minutes from the last meeting, the current agenda and the payment of claims were passed.

Bringing his update as PWD, Jim Truelove opened his report with the announcement that the new truck route signs are up. He said Riverview Park has been closed for the season, due to non-use. Other restrooms will be closing soon as well.

Truelove said the leaf truck has been set up and will be available when the leaves begin to fall. The grass containers have been collected and returned to storage.

He provided an update on the recent inspection by the State; one more item to be completed is a mid-rail on the mezzanine at the City Shop.

With great disappointment, Truelove announced there was, once again, vandalism at the Skate Park. Sally Wright, though not present, was acknowledged and Truelove thanked her for her hours in getting things repainted and restored. There was also vandalism in the restroom at the Skate Park. The cost of the restoration and upkeep is beginning to add up with no answers in sight. The consensus of the members was that the vandals are “wanna-be punks” and “gangs” as stated by Mayor John Demarais. Truelove said he has noticed an increase in patrolling of the area by law enforcement.

Councilperson Bonnie Wiederrick stated the reports in the PCN show the support and work that local law enforcement is dedicating to the City.

City Clerk Lorie Bond reminded the council members of the presentation by St. Mary’s Rehabilitation on Oct. 2nd and the change of the first meeting in October being rescheduled to Oct. 6 at 9 a.m.

There were no reports from the various departments.

Terry Hotchkiss, representing the Malta Dirt Daubers, addressed the council and requested permission to erect a Gold Star in the rest area at the entrance of Trafton Park. The Gold Star is in memorial to LCpl Jeremy Monroe, who gave his life in Iraq. The plans are to have a dedication service at the State Garden Club meeting that will be hosted by Malta in June of 2024. Unanimous approval was given in support of the project.

Dennis Fitzgerald, Area Manager of Youth Dynamics, invited the Council members to attend an open house at the YDI office on Oct. 17th. State officials will be attending and key stakeholders are being invited; Dennis hand-delivered an invitation to each Council member and Mayor Demarais.

The next meeting of the Council is FRIDAY, Oct. 6th at 9 a.m.