In related business, police chief Mike Buchanan reported that the town police have been able to patrol more effectively at the town park with an extra officer on duty. Two curfew violations were issued to very young youths at 2:30 a.m. during the past month. The board told Buchanan they would like to see the extra patrol continue through Labor Day weekend.

In other business, the board agreed that grass clippings would no longer be picked up by the town after July 31. Wastewater superintendent Brad Zellers reported to the board that grass clippings left on the streets and washed into the sewers during rain is an ongoing problem. A lengthy discussion followed, before the decision was reached to no longer collect clippings.

After July 31, residents within the city limits may transport yard waste to the town woods themselves, or consider using a mulching blade to eliminate the need to rake or bag grass clippings. The town will continue to pick up limbs and brush as a courtesy service as time allows.

Sue Young and Crystal Young appeared before the board to share project plans to transcribe all 43 cemeteries in Pulaski County. This is a volunteer project, but the women will accept donations and/or help. At the end of the project they will provide photos and listings of all grave markers to each library in the county. They are working with veterans organizations and the DNR to replace or repair damaged stones.

A public hearing on proposed increases to the water rates preceded the meeting. Board members held a brief discussion on the rate increases which will be approximately 20 percent. No public comment was offered. Later in the regular meeting, an ordinance was approved to amend the monthly water rates and charges as proposed.