Van Winkle addresses Walker aldermen

Nevada Daily Mail

Elizabeth Van Winkle, Executive Director of Kaysinger Basin Regional Planning Commission, addressed the Walker board of alderman during its May 18 to garner support for the creation of an economic development coordinator for the county.

Van Winkle has been working with Vernon County commissioners for several months and met with mayors from several communities last month.

The regional planning commission projects an annual budget of $50,000 for this position and $32,000 in salary and benefits, with the remainder for travel, and other expenses. Van Winkle said that a portion of the cost might be offset by a grant and she should know the status of that grant in the near future. Walker's contribution to the position would be $367 per year.

Van Winkle asked the board for a letter of commitment. The board voted 4-0 to submit the requested letter and commit to the program.

In other business, Mayor Phil Martin reported that the water tower has been drained, serviced, and refilled at a cost of $1,950.

Alderman Phil Thompson reported that the city's tractor has been repaired but repairs to the current rough-cut mower are cost prohibitive.

Thompson presented two bids to the board for their consideration for a new rough-cut mower. The first was for a Woods brand 6-foot rough-cut mower for $2,295 from S&H. A second submission from S&H was for a 6-foot Bush Hog brand rough-cut mower for $4,100. Thompson reported that R&R offered the same model Bush Hog mower for $2,750.

The board voted 4-0 to purchase the Bush Hog mower from R&R equipment at the best possible price.

Landscaping at the park has been completed. Martin said the park is to be mowed, trimmed and blown every Friday.

The board voted to enter executive session.