PHOTO BY RENEA KESSLER / THE VILLAGE REPORTER
PARTY IN THE PARK … Final touches are being put in place for the Party in the Park as the village prepares for the big weekend.
By: Renea Kessler
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
renea@thevillagereporter.com
The Village of Metamora met for its regular session with members completing a verbal roll call before moving into the approval of minutes from the May 18 regular meeting and the May 21 special meeting.
An update was then shared by Mayor Mossing from a resident household near the park entrance regarding ongoing home construction.
The household stated that temporary construction fencing had been placed to help conceal the unfinished area until the garage project can be completed.
The residents said they are continuing to work toward finishing the project but noted that financial setbacks have delayed progress.
They also stated they would be willing to accept assistance if beautification funds were available. Officials noted that the household had previously been referred to possible funding or assistance options.
During the administrator’s report, council received updates on road maintenance, sewer work, and tree removal needs. Third patching was discussed, with the work expected to be completed in the coming weeks at a cost believed to be similar to last year.
Sewer work was also said to be progressing, including continued dirt work in areas where previous work had affected yards.
A sewer issue involving a property was also reviewed. The concern appeared to involve the elevation of a sewer line rather than a damaged line.
It was explained that the line itself appears to be clear, but that the depth and elevation of the existing connection may be causing backup problems during heavy storms.
Officials discussed the possibility of a permanent fix involving a higher connection and pump setup but said the matter would need additional review to make sure everyone is on the same page before any work is completed.
Tree concerns at the park were also discussed. Two quotes had been received for tree work after one contractor did not respond.
The trees in question are located near the park, including trees close to neighboring properties and fence lines.
Council discussed whether the matter should be referred to the tree commission, although it was noted that the commission may not meet again until August.
Stump removal was also discussed separately, with officials noting that there are multiple stumps in the park and throughout town that may need to be ground down.
Council also received an update on the comprehensive plan. The first draft revisions have been completed, and a second draft is expected to be sent to the committee for review. The committee will meet again to review the updated draft before moving forward.
Council then approved Ordinance 2026-12 on its third and final reading. The ordinance accepts the 2026 updated zoning ordinance and repeals conflicting ordinances.
The approval includes the changes that were discussed during the special meeting, which have now been incorporated into the zoning ordinance.
Training and government updates were also discussed. Mayor Mossing said she planned to attend a webinar related to elected officials and nondisclosure agreements.
Another meeting with the Regional Income Tax Agency was also discussed, with the agenda including updates on agency operations, efforts to improve tax collection, and information on how to ensure contractors working in the community comply with local income tax requirements.
Council reviewed budget information related to streets, sidewalks, tree work, and other funds. It was noted that road repair money remains available after planned work, and that funds are also available in street, sewer, and general fund accounts for sidewalk needs.
Officials also discussed the possibility of holding a committee meeting to better review the budget and help council members understand where funds are located, what money is earmarked for specific purposes, and what money remains unencumbered.
The proposed ADA ramp replacement project was tabled until committee review, so the matter can be discussed further with the appropriate officials.
Party in the Park planning continued with discussion on volunteer needs, especially during the busiest serving times.
Officials said additional help may still be needed and encouraged members to reach out to potential volunteers. The upcoming memorial dedication was also discussed, with plans for speakers, a sound system, and a program connected to Flag Day.
Flag collection boxes have been placed at the library, post office, and bank. Collected flags will be taken to the park during Party in the Park and later handled through proper flag retirement procedures.
Council also discussed possible supplies for children, including footballs, basketballs, and other items that could be used at the park.
Officials said the existing basketballs at the park have been used frequently and that it has been good to see children using the park.
A request related to a high utility bill was also discussed. The issue involved a backup system that reportedly activated after a sump pump issue, leading to higher usage.
Council discussed whether any credit could be given, but the general understanding was that credits are usually considered when the issue is caused by the county or village system rather than a private property issue.
WiFi access at the park was reviewed in connection with cameras and Party in the Park needs. Officials discussed the possibility of using extenders to improve signal strength and creating a guest WiFi network.
The importance of keeping financial transactions on a protected network was also discussed.
Concerns were also raised about park bathrooms and the concession stand being left unlocked or unsecured after changes to ball schedules.
Officials discussed the need for better communication when games are added, canceled, or changed, so the village knows when the concession stand and restrooms need to be opened or secured.
It was suggested that schedule changes should be reported to the village office so records can remain accurate and staff can plan accordingly.
With no further business, the meeting was adjourned.