Land Acquisition Discussed at Atwood Village Board August Meeting

By Doris Elmore
Staff Writer

The Atwood Village Board discussed the possibility of land acquisition to expand the Atwood Park at the regular meeting of the board on Monday, Aug. 9. The park is in need of additional land for parking since the diamonds have been upgraded and there are additional games at the park.

Village President Bill Fleming told the board that Federal & State Grants are available for parks. Deadline for application is Sept. 1 and the board must apply for the grants before they check any further with the land.

Syed Asghar in the Oaks Division of Atwood was present to talk to the board regarding condition of the property at the back and sides of his property. The board discussed his situation and told him they would see what can be done.

The sidewalk on the north and east side of the First State Bank is in dire need of repair/replacement. The sidewalk dropped and cracked, funneling water down the wall of the basement. The sidewalk needs repaired right away so it doesn’t cause the bank additional problems. There is $10,000 in the sidewalk fund. Bids have to be obtained until a decision can be made by the board. Three estimates will be available at the next meeting.

President Fleming thanked the street department for all the work they have been doing updating & beautification around town, such as flushing hydrants, cleaning streets, painting lines, etc. Also thanked the Atwood Woman’s Club for planting the flowers on Main Street and the upkeep on them. Patient Equipment provided a crane to help with the siren repair. Fleming remarked this was appreciated as well.

Trustee Chris Stoltz thanked Police Chief Rob Bross for the odd hours he has been working and for taking care of the village.

The board accepted the resignation of Marsha Eastin as custodian for the village. Marsha thanked the board for hiring her, but she had to resign her cleaning duties due to health concerns and the possibility of upcoming surgery.

Other items before the board included:

1. The board approved purchasing a SL 1000 portable parallel analyzer (test meter) for the water & sewer department.

2. Approved the action to replace the furnace and AC unit at the water plant, not to exceed $7,000.

3. The board approved GIS mapping of water/sewer service.

4. Expenditures totaling $21,454.12 were approved.

The next meeting of the board will be Monday, Sept. 13, at 6 p.m.