January 2005 The big news coming with the new year is: we are going to have a new office building, combined with a senior center. As of the January council meeting 11 contractors have picked up packets on the bid for the senior center. In his January 2005 State of the City report in The Pioneer Post, Mayor Butler informed us that our city finances are doing well. Residential growth in the community scheduled for the coming year will bring added costs for roads, law enforcement and public works. The one-time impact fees and building fees help, but constant oversight and management will be needed to meet the challenge. The city seeks to maintain a rural, small-town atmosphere desired by residents, but must also balance the interests of property owners. We want to preserve our wonderful open space for future generations to enjoy. He also reported his activities on the four boards on which he serves, including the Central Weber Sewer Board, where he is a full voting member this year for the first time. He again thanked all those who volunteer and contribute to our city, helping to make it a great place to live and raise a family. In the same issue, Council President Dennis Ilium listed his goals as a community representative: 1. Build a community that is a nice place for families to live, now and in the future. 2. Maintain adequate infrastructure, clean air, and clean water. 3. Provide quality public safety and services. 4. Encourage doing business locally. He said he appreciates those in the community that voice concerns, but is more appreciative to those who propose solutions. It is easy to find something to complain about, but it takes initiative and foresight to propose real solutions. The residents thank these two men, the other council members, the staff, and all volunteers for their work in our behalf. The Weber County Animal Service announced three rabies clinics to be held at the Weber County Animal Shelter, 1373 North 7750 West (inside the fairgrounds). At the January 20, 2005, council meeting, Dennis Ilium was re-elected as Council President, and Rob Smout as Vice President for the year 2005. Three positions on the Board of Adjustments have expired and Mayor Butler would like Jay Miller to serve another term on that board, with Jim Ito as First Alternate and Orvil Holley as Second Alternate. The council accepted these appointments. Steve Davis, the independent auditor, reviewed highlights from the audit conducted by his firm for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2004. He indicated the city was in good financial condition. The city is in compliance with state regulations, and the report has been accepted by the state. Copies of the report are available for the public, upon request. Several jurisdictions are considering a joint ambulance service proposal, including our city, West Haven, Hooper, and Weber County. It is an effort to improve response time for calls, and is still in the preliminary phase. The service will not cost the city, but we will assist with the cost for newspaper publishing of the request for proposals, amounting to $100 to $200. Mayor Butler asked Mr. Rob Smout to represent the city on the committee. The council approved this action. Mrs. Lisa Panter, from the audience, asked who currently provides ambulance service, and would there be an additional fee involved for the city under a joint ambulance service. Mayor Butler advised that