City Council Highlights - March 12, 2012 | WMNO TV-22 Marion - Marion's Premiere Television Station

City Council Highlights - March 12, 2012

Mar. 14, 2012 - By Josh Berridge - 0 Comments

City Council met Monday evening in a meeting that was short in comparison to meetings in the last few weeks.

Council approved allowing the mayor to join a Council of Governments. The issue had seen heavy debate until last night. 3rd Ward Councilman Mike Thomas did ask the mayor if he would at least come to council if the city were going to actually join a COG.

Mayor Scott Schertzer said that he would keep council informed on the city's status regarding joining a COG, but would only come to council with items that need the approval of City Council, such as applying for grants or hiring services.

Council also approved designating certain land inside the city as agricultural land, as requested by Lynn Clabaugh and allowing the Municipal court to enter into contract with the Attorney General's office to collect delinquent debt.

Council also approved an ordinance establishing a moderate and low income housing rehab program though the CHIP grant program and entering into contract with Metro Housing to administer the tenant-based rental assistance program.

The other major discussion Monday regarded Opposing a plan from the state to take over municipal income tax collection. A Resolution brought forward by Mayor Scott Schertzer a few weeks back, came out based somewhat on rumors, but also on discussion with other municipalities.

2nd Ward Councilman Ayers Ratliff asked if there was any more word on if the state legislature was actually moving on such a measure.

During that discussion, At-Large Councilman Josh Daniels expressed his opposition, to the opposition because the resolution has council against something that does not yet exist.

Council only had a first reading on the matter. Also getting a first reading Monday was an ordinance to place stop signs at the intersection of N. Prospect and Council St.