A project six years in the works was brought to completion at Monday evening's regularly scheduled Fowler Town Council meeting. Trustees unanimously approved Ordinance 651, or Title 13, amending in its entirety, the Fowler Municipal Code regarding municipal utilities. “We have a good, solid document now to govern all aspects of utilities [in Fowler],” commented Trustee Chuck Hitchcock, who then took the opportunity to commend those involved with the long, often arduous project. “Thank you to all the members of the utility board and Wayne Snider, Mayor Wards, Dan Hyatt (town attorney) and Ronnie Rein.”
Trustee Randy McKown added, “Chuck's done a lot of work on this and we appreciate that. Thank you.”
Trustee Monie Stites reported on a possible transportation service for area residents provided by Renzenberger Transport. Grant funding could provide opportunities for Renzenberger to transport people from Fowler to locations such as Otero Junior College, doctor's appointments or shopping destinations. In the near future public polls will be conducted to determine need and interest in this area.
Council approved a motion which would give ownership of a future solar system at Cottonwood Links Golf Course to the Town of Fowler. Contingent on receiving grant funding to finance the project and rebates from Black Hills Energy, the town will assume ownership and responsibility for the system to be installed at the golf course. As a result the town will also receive renewable energy credits associated with the project which will provide an additional stream of revenue.
Town Administrator Wayne Snider reported he has received several applications for the position of Chief of Police. He also informed council he recently placed an ad with an international police publication seeking applicants. Council decided to meet on Thursday, March 11 for a work session regarding criteria for hiring a chief. Meanwhile, Town Attorney Dan Hyatt will be drafting a preliminary ordinance regarding a police advisory committee.
Launa Manchego and Noel Sanchez, members of the Fowler Youth Recreation organization appeared in front of council requesting a portion of Great Outdoors Colorado funding. Youth Rec has several projects which would benefit from GOCO funds including the construction of a storage building at the elementary baseball field, purchase of bleachers and awnings for the baseball field, and money for a maintenance salary. While the total, over $30,000, was more than council could fund, trustees offered suggestions for funding avenues the department could pursue including grants from Wal-Mart, Lowe's, and Home Depot. Snider also offered to help apply for a GOCO mini-grant.
In other new business, the resignation of Pat Lowe, librarian at Fowler Public Library, was unanimously accepted.
Next council meeting will be held Monday, March 22, at 6 p.m.
