The Paden City Common Council met in regular session on Monday August 5th at 7:00 p.m. in the council chambers of the municipal building. Mayor Clyde Hochstrasser presided over the meeting with all council members present and accounted for.

Of utmost importance a discussion was held concerning the possible loss of another business in the community as the Wetzel/Tyler Health Department is considering building a new building and relocating to New Martinsville in the Steelton area. According to the discussion this would be a loss to the community and would mean the Department would no longer be located in the Paden City Development Authority’s Health and Recreation Center. Paden City resident Mike Turner expressed concern that the Health Department would leave Paden City making it more difficult for local residents to get the service needed. Also the loss of six more jobs within the community is at stake. Mayor Hochstrasser commented, “Another battle.”

A recent meeting was held with local officials and residents of Paden City and the Health Department and their board over the subject. With no final decision yet made.

Under other business several residents presented concerns to council. One resident inquired about a sinkhole on his property, while another resident asked council to have a tree removed in an alley near her home, and two others complained about drainage problems. Concerning the sink hole it was reported that the size and scope of the work to be done makes it a large project. It might also be part of one of the two ongoing projects according to a report from Thrasher Engineering. A report was also given regarding ongoing street cleaning.

A citizen at this point asked about brown water entering her home’s filter. She stated that it has been a recurring problem and her water filter needs to be changed every three weeks. Discussion then took place concerning iron pipes and new lines being run into parts of the community.

A request was made by Mayor Hochstrasser concerning bringing back retired city employee Rex Ervin, husband to the city recorder Sheila Irvin, to assist the city maintenance department when they are shorthanded. This will be part time on an as needed basis. Council approved the Mayor’s request. His salary will be $17.50 hr. Hochstrasser noted he is trying to watch expenses and hold off hiring full-time.

Water and Maintenance Superintendent Josh Yost Reported on the city crews. He said the department was currently two people short. Mayor Hochstrasser again stressed holding off hiring full-time employees until they see what the budget will allow.

“I want to wait and see what our budget is. There was a 28 percent increase in insurance and we are paying 100 percent of the costs,” added Hochstrasser.

Under other business, the second reading of the new ordinance added $2.00 to residence homes and $5.00 to commercial operations starting September 1. The Council passed the ordinance by unanimous vote. The increase will allow the city to establish a pool of money for storm drain improvements and repairs and make it easier for the city to receive grants and loans if needed in the future.

Also on Monday it was announced that the EPA will hold a community informational meeting on Tuesday, August 27, at the Paden City Fire Hall. The meeting is to provide residents and interested parties with news concerning the Paden City Superfund Site near Paden City High School. The EPA will give an update on the Remediation Process at the Site.

It was reported the new Web Site is planned to be up and running in November. An update was given on the new Employees hand book. Bill Bell, Don Dillaman, and Mayor Clyde Hochstrasser have formed a committee to review and update.

The volunteer Fire Department reported responding to one EMS call for assistance, three service calls, one false alarm, three mutual aid calls and a missing child alert during the month of July.

Under Police Business a question was brought up about the Department’s Chevy Tahoe. Police Chief Anthony Lauer was absent and the discussion was tabled. Proposals for computer upgrades and tree removal were also tabled until they can receive other bids.

It was reported that a new roof will be installed on the Health and Recreation Building sometime next month. The city gave $11,000 to the library from the 24/ 25 budgeted General Funds, $7,000 from the general fund and $4,000 from coal severance. Also $3,000 was given to the Paden City Labor Day Celebration from the General Fund. Council unanimously approved all expenditures.

Estimates for the park tree trimming were set aside as Mayor Clyde Hochstrasser requested more estimates before deciding the issues.

The Council on a motion and second entered into executive session to discuss employee issues. Following the hour-long session the council returned with no announcements.

The Meeting was adjourned, with the next scheduled meeting set for Monday, September 9, at 7 p.m. at the city complex.