Lind Town Council meets for final time in 2018

Lind’s Town Council meeting on Wednesday, the day after Christmas, was unusually short—probably not unexpected for a meeting in the middle of the protracted holiday season. Mayor Paula Bell called the meeting to order, the Pledge of Allegiance was completed, and a quorum was noted (Councilmembers Richard Baldwin, Myra Horton, Rose Elkington, Kathy Vedder were present; Jim Dworshak was absent). Kylie Buell was also present, and her minutes from the previous meeting were unanimously approved.

The first order of business was a discussion of the Town’s budget. Mayor Bell had examined the budget of Ritzville to evaluate how that budget managed step pay increases for Town employees. Elkington stated that a 2.8 percent Cost-of-Living increase (COLA) would be acceptable to her, and Vedder felt the same way.

After discussing the employee deduction requirements for L&I insurance and the new Paid Family and Medical Leave Program, Councilmember Vedder made a motion for a 2.8 percent pay increase across the board for all Town employees. The vote to pass Resolution 18-10 was unanimous, and the pay increases became effective on Jan. 1.

The mayor passed out a five-year budget comparison. If a budget amendment is needed a special meeting of the Council would have to be called before the year ends. The Council discussed proposed Policy and Procedures. Everyone was happy with the document at this time, however the document will go to an attorney to check and revise if necessary to align with employment laws.

Elkington stated that she would like to meet with employees in a casual meeting to hear their thoughts and input – suggesting a time after work after the first of the year, and she could then bring suggestions and feedback to the Council. Vedder said she would also like to attend.

Mayor Bell passed out a list of building permits coming through the office. Councilmembers all expressed appreciation for the information, noting that it will help them to keep track of what’s going on in the Town.

A list of payable warrants was passed out from the Finance Committee. Councilmember Vedder made a motion to pay the warrants in the amount of $13,928.45. The motion passed unanimously. Councilmember Vedder then made a motion to pay pending invoices for the period Nov. 30-Dec. 18, and the motion carried unanimously.

Mayor Bell adjourned the meeting at 7:30 p.m. after thanking Council members for their help during the past year. The next Council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 8 at 7 p.m. in the Town Hall.