City passes recreational marijuana law

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by Mark Cheffey

The Palmyra City Council last Thursday gave final passage of the city’s new recreational marijuana ordinance, approved initial payment for a sewage treatment plant project and amended the 2022-2023 budget among other things.

By a unanimous vote, the council approved an ordinance recognizing the change in state law allowing the sale, use and possession of marijuana for recreational use.

The ordinance comes following the passage of a state constitutional amendment by the state’s voters last November as well as the passage of a citywide sales tax on the sale of marijuana.

The council also unanimously approved an initial payment of $41,197 to Martin General Contractors, which is in the process of installing a new aeration system at the city’s sewage treatment plant.

The project became necessary after part of the old aeration system broke down.

Also approved unanimously were:

• an amended 2022-23 city budget to accurately reflect revenues and expenditures during the previous fiscal year which ended April 30; and

• an approval of engaging Wade Stables PC to perform the annual citywide audit.

The council continued discussion of the trial four-day workweek for the city street department.

Some council members received more comment from citizens against the four-day work week after the council voted unanimously to do a one-month trial period during May.

Comments from citizens against its implementation included concerns about the availability of the street crew for emergencies on Friday’s when the department is off, and that the four-day work week would eventually be considered for other departments.

The council stood by the one-month trial period following the discussion, noting it is just a trial, and if extended would only include the summer months.

It was noted the four-day work week would not be an option for other departments, including the Board of Public Works and police department.

And, the possibility of emergencies, especially during the summer months, when there is no snow removal, was considered remote.

“It’s my department, and if it’s not working, I’ll shut it down,” said Street Commissioner Austin Dornberger about the four-day work week.

“I think we should at least give it a try,” said Council Member Pam Behring.

Dornberger presented a list of street resurfacing projects being considered including:

• East Main Cross from Main Street to U.S. 61;

• Dickerson Street from North to Jackson streets; and

• Leach Ave. from Ross to Mariposa. 

Police Chief Eddie Bogue reported on the hiring of a new police officer cadet, who is now attending police academy.

BPW Superintendent Brent Abell received consensus approvel for the purchase of a small pickup truck at a cost of $15,200 with trade-in. 

Council Member Steve Bland said he was contacted by the Palmyra Area Ministerial Alliance about having a sign installed at the city limits listing the churches in Palmyra.

Mayor Rusty Adrian told the council the city will need additional cyber security to prevent   the possibility of outside hacking through the Livesteam Link.

Council Member Ellen Goodwin reported receiving a complaint about an unkempt property.