News Items - January 2, 2009
1. WARREN HOTEL: A nuisance to abate (by January 4) was issued to the Warren Hotel owner regarding the exterior wall. The alley is still closed and will remain so until the building has been inspected. The building has also been unoccupied since October 22.

Chuck Burgin contacted Neumann Brothers and they are prepared to assist with an inspection and possible repair as necessary.

2. GREEN CONSTRUCTION: Members of the Sustainability Committee including Chuck Burgin, Steve Grey, Mindi Robinson and myself met to discuss green construction methods the city could require in order to obtain tax abatement. Some of the methods include smaller lot sizes, fly ash in concrete, recycled exterior coverings, recycled roof materials, added insulation, enhanced windows, use of local products, water gardens, hot water pipe insulation and solar energy.

This group will meet again in mid-January to develop a recommendation for the entire committee’s review and eventual recommendation to council.

3. HEALTH INSURANCE POOL: December’s balance is at $609,500.

4. NEGOTIATIONS: The first meetings will be the 5th and 8th next week and Jim Hanks indicates they’ll be a good barometer for voluntary settlements.

5. CONTRACT MOWING: In your packet is information from Glen Cowan regarding in-house mowing and contract mowing costs for 2009. Note that only five properties are mowed by our staff since contract mowing is so competitive.