February 25, 2008 
7:30 p.m.

The regular meeting of the Village of Grand Rapids was held in the Town Hall. Mayor Keifer asked the Fiscal Officer to take roll call: Pam Sherwood (here), Carolyn Erdody (here), John Berry (here), Linda Hall (excused), Bill Hutchison (here), and Louise Estep (here).

(The February 11 meeting was cancelled, due to the flooding.)

Erdody made a motion, seconded by Berry to suspend the reading and accept the minutes of the January 28 Council Meeting as submitted. Motion passed by voice vote.

The bills were presented. Estep made a motion, seconded by Berry to pay the bills. Motion passed unanimously by roll call vote.

Mayor Keifer recognized Linda Holmes. Ms. Holmes is one of the candidates running for Prosecutor. She introduced herself, gave her background and explained why she feels she is the best candidate for the position.

Mayor Keifer recognized Naomi Twining. Ms. Twining read a letter from Robert McClarren, a descendent of Thomas Howard. Ms. Twining requested Council to recognize the operations of an underground railroad in the Village, along with permission to erect a marker. After much discussion, Ms. Twining preferred the site be designated between the railroad bridge and the car bridge.

Mayor Keifer recognized Ron Munk, owner of the Millhouse Bed and Breakfast. Mr. Munk was present to see if the Village has a disaster flood plan since he is new to the Village. Mayor Keifer stated the Fire Department serves as command central when there is a flood, ice jams, etc. She said there are firemen around the clock at the station watching the conditions. Mayor Keifer said they have started to build documentation to know "what 19' means in the business district" when it floods. Councilman Berry further explained the assistance they offer and how people are notified.

Mayor Keifer publically thanked the Fire Department for the number of hours they put in before, during and after the flooding. She also thanked them for cleaning the streets after the flood.

Administrator Hoffman verbally gave his report. (A written copy will be attached to the Fiscal Officer's minutes.)

After discussion, Erdody made a motion, seconded by Berry to purchase a Trimble GeoXH GPS receiver system at a cost of $8,216. Motion passed unanimously by roll call vote.

Hoffman stated the speed limit study is complete and all documents have been submitted. He said one additional radar study will need to be completed by the Sheriff's Office.

A Committee of the Whole meeting was scheduled on March 10 at 6:30 p.m. at the Town Hall to discuss utility contracts.

A Finance Committee meeting was scheduled on March 4 at 7 p.m. at the Village Offices to discuss 2008 annual appropriations.

A Lands and Buildings Committee meeting was scheduled on February 28 at 7 p.m. at the Village Office to discuss 2008 projects.

A Safety Committee meeting was scheduled on March 5 at 7 p.m. at the Village Offices to discuss nuisance properties.

Councilman Erdody announced the Easter Weekend Celebration will be on March 15, 16. There will be a parade in and out of the stores on March 15 at 2 p.m.

With no further business to discuss, Erdody made a motion, seconded by Hutchison to adjourn. Meeting adjourned.