Appointments made to achieve a full council and changes ahead for the fire departmentwere just a couple of the items discussed when the Auburntown City Council met December 4th for their regular monthly meeting. The Mayor and all Council members were present except Beth Hancock and Frank Patrick. The previous month of November minutes were presented by the City Recorder for approval. The minutes were approved as presented.
The financial report ending November 30, 2012 was presented, discussed and approved. Balance of funds was $36,027.37.
The Mayor gave a Certificate of Election to each member who ran for office in the last election. The certificates were provided by the Cannon County Election Commission.
The Mayor recommended three new members for appointment to the office of Alderman, thus, making a full slate of officers for the city. The following were recommended; Denise Farless, Janice Fletcher and Frank Patrick. They were approved without objection and were welcomed into their new responsibilities effective January 1, 2013. The Mayor expressed his appreciation for all who were instrumental in hanging the Christmas light all over town. He specifically gave MTEMC a sounding round of approval for supplying a lift bucket in this endeavor.
Chris Blackburn, Volunteer Fire Chief, gave a report and assessment of the present condition of the fire department. He said he had accomplished many of his goals but felt there were also several needing more attention than he could give. Some of the present conditions plaguing the department were; a shortage of personnel, lack of commitment and training, accountability for supplies and equipment, and the need for a person (or persons) who could always be available to answer calls for service. As the population has become more mobile it makes training and retention of personnel very difficult. Therefore, he was submitting his resignation as Chief, effective immediately.
The Mayor, as well as all Councilmen, expressed their appreciation for his service as Chief. They felt he had done an excellent job under the circumstances and wished him well as he continues as a fireman. The Mayor said that Chief Blackburn would be hard to replace and the city would began to look in earnest for his replacement.
