A special joint meeting of City of Cushing Board of Commissioners, Cushing Municipal Authority Board of Trustees, Cushing Hospital Authority Board of Trustees and the Cushing Industrial Authority Board of Trusteeswas held Monday in City Hall.
First up on the agenda – public hearings on the FY 2010 – 2011 City of Cushing and Trust Authorities budgets. There were no appearances from the audience.
Next up – Karen Kebele, of Design Associates, made a presentation of proposed improvement to City Commission Chambers. Improvements include special materials on existing wall panels, carpet tiles, and upholstered furniture to absorb and reflect sound as a way to improve the acoustics of the room – at the same time adding warmth and texture to its cold and austere interior.
“There are no soft surfaces in this room,” Kebele pointed out. “The sound bounces and distorts,” lending to the audio problems commissioners have received “a lot” of complaints about.
“How many complaints have you received? Two? Three? Ten? Twenty?” Commissioner Carey Seigle asked. “What’s a lot?”
“Probably 15 – 20 a month,” Mayor Evert Rossiter speculated.
Besides addressing the acoustics of the room, Kebele proposed other amenities such as additional room at the counsel desk for the City Attorney and City Clerk as well as special darkening shades for the large windows at the entrance. The total package came in at approximately $186,000. But Kebele pointed out the proposal was designed for them to “pick and choose”.
Commissioners approved putting the money in the budget for the project, but specifics will be decided at a later time. They also approved budgeting funds for a new security system and roof for City Hall as well as monies for additional equipment for Cushing Police Department. Resolution 11-2010 was also approved authorizing and directing the City Manager to issue a purchase order to North Central Pump in the sum of up to $19,000 to rebuild a motive pump at the waste water treatment plant.
In executive session, commissioners discussed the renewal of employment agreements with City Manager Steve Spears and City Attorney Stewart Arthurs. Following executive session, the board reconvened, approving both employment agreements.
The regular monthly meeting will be held Monday, June 21st.
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