(PHOTO BY RENEA KESSLER / THE VILLAGE REPORTER)
PARK ISSUES … Issues of damages and four-wheeler tracks at the park were discussed during the village meeting on Monday, February 3rd.
By: Renea Kessler
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
renea@thevillagereporter.com
The Metamora Village Council convened on February 3rd at 7:00 PM. The council approved the minutes from the previous meeting and authorized the payment of bills.
During the meeting, signage at the entrance of the reservoir was discussed. The village was instructed to add the following notices to the sign: “No Swimming,” “No Kayaking,” “No Skating,” and “No Ice Fishing.”
This addition aims to reduce potential liability for the village. Fortunately, the village does have liability coverage in case any issues arise.
A police report has been filed concerning damage at the park, estimated at $2,000. The council has two options: they can file a claim with insurance, which would require a $1,000 deductible that would be paid by the responsible party, but this would impact the insurance record.
Alternatively, they can pursue the responsible party for the entire $2,000 in damages. The council has decided to pursue the responsible party for the full amount.
There have been numerous issues with four-wheeler tracks in the grass areas of the park. It has been recommended to make police reports, and the council suggests closing the park gates to prevent unauthorized access after-hours.
However, a concern has been raised regarding the need for reflective signs on the gates to ensure visibility at night. Additionally, it was noted that emergency personnel must be able to access the area if necessary.
One suggestion was to install a lock box with a code for emergency personnel to use during after-hours situations.
The village received a reimbursement of $20,966.00 from the NatureWorks Grant. They also discussed serving cake on April 4th to celebrate Fulton County’s 175th birthday, known as Cake Day.
Council also passed the following ordinances:
-Ordinance 2025-04: Emergency. Increase appropriations for 2025 for workmen’s comp that got overlooked: Increase expense account # 1000-715-225-0000 in the amount of $2500.00.
-Ordinance 2025-05: Emergency. Designate a Central Business District in the village for the Community Development Block Grant Program.
-Ordinance 2025-06: 1st Reading. Approving standards for downtown revitalization grant.
During the meeting, FEMA mitigation planning was discussed, highlighting the need for increased involvement from someone on the council.
Metamora needs to update its disaster response plan to prepare for potential natural disasters. Without a comprehensive plan in place, the village would not qualify for FEMA funds to assist during such events.
With no further topics to discuss, the meeting was adjourned at 7:30 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled for February 18th at 7:00 p.m.