By John Hernandez
On April 15, the Hayden Town Council listened to comments made by the public concerning the project to be approved for Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) funding. Four projects were under consideration for the funding. Only one of the four projects could be approved.
The projects were demolition of an owner occupied house, demolition of some unoccupied structures almost totally destroyed by fire, improving the size of the building for the fire station and road improvements.
After discussion, it was determined that the improvements for the fire house and road improvements would each cost more than the grants. The demolition of the occupied structure would cost more and take more time to complete than the demolition of the unoccupied structures. The Council approved the demolition of the unoccupied structures.
The Council approved Resolution No. 854 agreeing to participate in the Gila County Multi-Jurisdictional Mitigation Plan. The Council also approved a proclamation declaring April 14-20 the Week of the Young Child, which was read into the record.
Consideration was given to re-advertising the position of Animal Control Officer or interviewing the two applicants who have applied. Consideration was given to raising the hourly wage above the $9.50 per hour that had been advertised.
There was a person that was an experienced animal control officer interested in the position but due to the pay, they did not apply. Reconsideration of the position and pay was approved and they would take a look at the person with experience. The Council approved the hiring of lifeguards and a manager for the swimming pool.
The Council approved the final step in pay effective May 18 for employee Juan Bracamonte. The consideration for approval of the one year probation of Officer Stoney Blair effective April 23, Officer Melissa Palomino effective May 4 and Aubrey Keck effective May 29 was tabled until next week.
Approval for the sponsoring of two kids for the College for Kids Program was granted by the Council.
Consideration for approval for the purchase of a fire hydrant not to exceed a price of $2,500 was canceled after Public Works Director Carlos Estrada said that the hydrant had been fixed and is working properly. Carlos also announced that he would be retiring effective May 20, 2013 after 35 years of service to the Town Of Hayden.