Council Approves Town Manager's Separation Notice(posted Aug 29) The Speedway Town Council approved a two step process to finish the non renewal of Town Manager John McCurtain's contract. The August 27 approval came after the official August 13 council discussion that McCurtain would not be returning. The council had to give McCurtain notice if they chose not to renew his contract. The last step is to negotiate his contract over monetary issues. President Bill Golay indicated the "outcome" was made in an executive session. According to the Open Door Law, votes cannot be taken in an executive session. Helen Kellam, resident, requested the council not replace McCurtain. She thought the town manager's position was unnecessary and only cost the taxpayers money. The council also approved Merrell Bros' Request For Proposal to enter into a 30 year lease at the waste water treatment plant with the intent to build a septic separation de-watering process plant. The company wanted to locate its business close to the waste water treatment plant as an easier means to send its byproducts into the plant. The company initially purchased land on Cossell Road behind Allison Transmission. The council approval allowed legal counsel to pursue further negotiations. Town Attorney Jim Gutting explained his main concerns with the proposed contract. He wanted some type of reciprocation of notice if Merrell Bros decides to terminate the lease early. The town is dependent upon Merrell Bros for sludge removal at the waste water treatment plant. The town is required to give a two year notice, so the company has adequate time to relocate. Gutting also wanted to tie the lease to the consumer price index to adjust for inflation over the next 30 years. Merrell Bros would be responsible for the environmental concerns as well as contributing its assets to the town if it breaks the contract. |
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