April 29, 2009
Wellman, Iowa 52356
The Wellman City Council met in special session in the Clerk’s office of the Wellman Municipal Building at 5:30pm for the purpose of action regarding the Public Works Director position. Mayor Ryan Miller presided with the City Administrator, City Clerk and following Council Members: Robert Goodrich, Marc Pennington, Steve Slaubaugh, and Matt Latcham; absent: no one. Also present were: Mary Coblentz from the news media. The Agenda was approved upon motion by Slaubaugh, second by Latcham and all aye votes.
Ross stated John O’Donnell had been offered the position but has decided to turn it down. Covington, the affidavit operator, leaves June 1st so it is critical to get an operator for the plants. The next ranked applicant is Aaron Shumaker who has grade 4 water treatment, grade 3 distribution and grade 1 wastewater. Ross asked for direction from the Council to proceed with filling this position. Discussion ensued on Mr. Shumaker’s qualifications as he has had no supervisory experience. Some references have been contacted that indicate he is very skilled in backhoe, utility work. Pros and cons were discussed as to filling the position as a public works employee versus supervisor. It was decided that if he was still interested, Ross could assist him in learning the supervisor’s role. The Council asked that Ross call Mr. Shumaker to determine if he would still be interested in filling this position. Ross called Shumaker who indicated he would be interested. Pennington moved to offer the position to Shumaker with a salary of $40,000 pending background check. Slaubaugh seconded the motion and all voted aye. Ross will proceed with the background check and hope to have a report by the Monday meeting.
Because Shumaker does not have a required grade 2 wastewater certification, Ross asked Council authority to seek hiring a temporary operator. It is possible the IDNR will allow an exemption for Shumaker based on his obtaining his grade 2 within six months. If this is not the case, Pennington moved to authorize Ross to seek the contract operator for no more than $1500 per month. Ross assured the Council he could get an operator for much less than that. Latcham seconded the motion and all voted aye.
With no further business Goodrich moved for adjournment at 5:57pm, Slaubaugh seconded and all voted aye. The next regular City Council meeting will be Monday, May 4, 2009, 7:00pm in the Council Chambers of the Wellman Municipal Building.
Minutes transcribed by the City Clerk subject to Council approval.