Common Council Of Oakland City Meeting Tuesday, October 14th

The Common Council of Oakland City met on Tuesday, October 14^th.

After reviews, the council voted to approve the minutes of the September 23^rd meeting, claims from the October 14^th meeting, and claims from the East Gibson Fire Territory.

Prior to old business the council discussed the special meeting that was held on October 1^st to open bids in regards to the building on Main Street. The city received two bids, the first was from Schaefer Excavating out of Somerville, IN for the amount of $17,500, the second from Freudenberg Construction for $7,200 with the exception of if rock is wanted instead of dirt. If rock is needed, there would be an additional cost of $650 per load. It’s estimated two loads would be needed, making the total for the second bid around $8,500 total. The council unanimously approved the bid from Freudenber Construction for the total estimated amount of $8,500.

As part of old business it was reported that the council must give a 10-day notice to IDEM before demolition can begin on the building on Main St. The council has already been in contact with Norfolk Southern Railway about what is needed from them. Additionally, it was noted that grants had been received from the Minneapolis and Brownfield for inspection, as well as phase 1 & 2 studies, for blight properties. The kick-off date for the Brownfield grant is October 16^th, at which time a meeting will be held to address removal of asbestos and other hazardous chemical/materials testing. It was noted that the city will not be required to hold ownership of the properties in question to complete said tests.

In new business, the council voted to accept the budget for year 2026. The budget rundown is as follows: Riverboat Casino $15,450; General Fund $674,780; Debt Services $70,400; Local Road & Street $41,200; Motor Vehicle Highway $117,710; Park and Recreation $80,350; Cumulative Capital Improvement $5,150; Cumulative Capital Development $15,450; Economic Development $150,000; and Special Fire Protection Territory General $449,300; bringing the total budget to $1,619,790. It was further reported that the three home rule funds park, local law enforcement continuing education, and public safety lit stand at $34,050, $10,250, and $185,000 respectively; for an additional $229,300.

The council approved updating an existing easement at the Patoka water tower to allow for instillation of a new antenna tower.

Also discussed during new business was a recent meeting with INDOT concerning issues on State Road 64 at I-69 in regards to potential development, which could include a convenience store and possible a hotel. Monday, October 29^th there will be a meeting with the TIFF Board in hopes of moving forward. As well as an amendment to Salary Ordinance 2024-8.

Lastly, it was announced that the times and dates for trick-or-treating in Oakland City are set for Thursday, October 30^th and Friday, October 31^st from 5 until 8 p.m. Residents are reminded to have their porch light on if they wish to receive visitors. It is also advised to remember to watch out for children crossing streets and roadways at these times.