Chester council prepares for winter

The Chester City Council heard from Maintenance Department Superintendent Steve Renner Monday night about the need to protect his department's salt supply.

Renner said that due to exposure to the elements, the department is losing about five tons of salt per year. This amount of loss costs the city between $500 and $1,000 yearly. He said they have tried to cover it with plastic in the past, but the plastic - which costs $350 a roll - does not hold up for the year.

Renner offered a proposal to the council for a resolution to install a cover similar to the one the sewer plant installed to cover sludge several years ago. The cover, which costs $11,640, would allow a 14-foot clearance for the city trucks.

When asked by Alderman Ray Allison about the floor's resistance to damage from the salt, Renner reassured the council that the floor was treated and sealed before the salt was delivered and has not received any damage.

The council approved the resolution.

Other city council action:

The council approved an adjustment of $128.39 to the sewer bill for the residence at 1941 State Street.

Alderman J.D. Maes informed the council that the Park and Recreation Committee recommends Richard Mueller be given approval to plant a fall 2020 crop on city property. He asked the council not to approve a spring planting as the committee would like to look at other options for the area. The council gave their approval after Maes added that Mueller would agree to only a fall planting.

City Clerk Bethany Berner explained that the city auditor recommended an employee contribution to the Chester Police Pension Fund of $191,828. The council approved.

Sewer Department Superintendent Marty Reynolds introduced Tom Mifflin, his choice to fill a vacant position. His hiring was approved with a start date to be announced.

The next regular meeting will be at 6 p.m. Nov. 2. The public is encouraged to attend.