.jpg)
RANDOLPH — The Randolph City Council decided Wednesday they would need more information before making some big decisions.
The Council’s Aug. 13 agenda included approving bids for two big ticket items — a new fire department generator, and the repair work at the intersection of Wayne and Main streets.
Both items raised several quesions, so the Council decided to table both so they could get more information.
The Council had also planned to approve an expense for asbestos removal of a city-owned property at 104 N. Bridge Street. After some discussion about that project, it was decided no action should be taken at this time.
Last November the Council approved spending more than $12,000 for a generator and electric work to be done at the fire hall.
Randolph Fire Chief Jim Scott said it has taken quite awhile to get bids from companies. The bids came in higher than expected, leaving Council members with more questions, than answers.
The Randolph rescue squad has agreed to pay $3,000 toward the generator. The squad might even be able to chip in a bit more, Tony Backer told Council members. The Rural Fire Department is also being asked to chip in some funds, which would bring the city’s cost down.
The fire department is also asking the community for donations to help defray the cost.
Scott said without a generator there’s risk of damaging fire equipment if the power were to go out for an extended period of time. Also, the large overhead doors would have to be opened manually which would add time to emergency response, Scott said.
A generator would also allow the fire hall to serve as a warming house for the community to gather in an emergency if needed.
“Luckily nothing has happened but if we get a big storm or blizzard, that’s different,” Scott said.
The city also received concrete bids from Goetz Construction and OK Concrete.
The Council discussed the idea of having city employees do some of the work, to reduce costs.
Assistant City Clerk Josh Rayford said he would seek more information on both bids.
Also Wednesday, Rayford said Environmental Services reviewed the Bridge Street house and determined it would cost $4,800 for asbestos abatement at the property.
Rayford said he received a phone call just prior to the meeting where someone expressed buying the property. No action was taken on that item Council members also talked about the new garbage service being run by S2. Things seem to be going well, Rayford said.
The city also learned a $500 donation came in from Randolph High School alumni to help fund an ice machine at the City Auditorium.
