Emery Council hears about pipeline project

By Alice Wadley
Staff Writer

The Emery Town council met for their first meeting of the new year on Jan. 10. The new council members took the oath of office, given by Tara Payne. The council includes Mayor Gary Petty, Councilman Brendon Jones, Councilwoman Carrie Childs, Councilwoman Shalane Christiansen and Councilwoman Laura Riddle-Nelson.
Mark Mortensen requested a business license for JME Trucking. The council approved the license.
The council received an update on the canal and pipeline. The plan is to extend the pipeline. Phase two is in the planning stages. Phase three will get money from the Bureau of Reclamation. The final design is in the works and it is expected to be put out for bids soon. There are five qualified contractors that have been identified and can submit bids.
Emery Town can apply for grants in conjunction with the pipeline project to improve drainage. One of the ideas is to leave the old canal in place to handle the drainage from floods and runoff. The pipeline should help to dry up the seep water.
A citizen asked if they knew where the water lines were going to be. He is concerned the property owners have not been given enough information. Mayor Petty gave the citizen a map of the proposed pipeline project.
There will be a shareholders meeting in February to discuss any concerns about the proposed pipeline project. The meeting will be advertised and posted in accordance with state laws.
The historical council gave an update on the plans to restore the old yellow church in Emery. The historical council is trying to become a 501(c)(3) organization to better accommodate donations. The historical council has sent their proposed bylaws and articles of incorporation to the state for approval.
There will be a winter ball held on Feb. 3 at 6 p.m. in Emery. This will be used as a fundraiser. The council is also looking into grants for the project. All grant money will have to go through the city.
Varian Allen also noted a feasibility study might also need to be conducted prior to starting the project. This will let the council know exactly how much money will be needed to complete the project and if the building is structurally stable.
The mayor received a citizen complaint about a dog at large. The owner has been contacted and he/she will restrain the dog.
Tara Payne conducted training on open and public meetings. All council members and the mayor will need to go online and complete the training. This is an annual requirement.
The council was given their assignments for the year. Mayor Petty requested each council person think about what they would like to accomplish in their respective assignments and bring it up at future council meetings. The meeting was adjourned.
The next council meeting will be held on Feb. 14 at 7 p.m.