•November 21, 2018•

Lovington water customers will pay an additional $6.87 per month for water service to help pay for improvements to the village water system.
Lovington’s minimum water bill is currently $30 compared to $50 average bills in surrounding communities, with the increase keeping the monthly bill below other communities.
At the Tuesday, Nov. 13 village board meeting president Roger Walker explained the increase for water customers was part of the required application process for a $600,000 Environmental Protection Agency loan to makes upgrades to the water treatment plant as well as replace existing water meters and some older valves and main lines.
Walker noted once the application is submitted by ESI consultants the village could be eligible for principal forgiveness which could reduce the loan amount.
On a motion by Dennis Garmon, attending trustees Gary Clem, Brenda Wood and April Daily approved the water increase in preparation for the water improvement loan application. Doug Smith and Pam Anklam were absent.
A proposed $200,000 Safe Routes to Schools grant which will provide safe sidewalks from Lovington Elementary School for students was approved with ESI providing preliminary work preparing for the grant.
Walker explained it was a two phase project with ESI charging up to $16,500 if the grant is approved. Attending trustees approved the resolution to support the Safe Routes to Schools program.
Following a 30 minute executive session, the village approved sale of previous purchased RR right of way property to the Harold Dietz farms retaining an easement for village use.
Breakfast with Santa at the First Church of God from 9-11 a.m. Sat. Dec. 15 was supported by the board with up to a $500 contribution upon recommendation by Garmon.
Trustee Wood reported on the Christmas Gathering set for Sat. Dec. 1 from 3 to 5 p.m. During the event citizens are asked to help decorate the Christmas tree downtown as well as enjoy Christmas caroling and refreshments at the library.
In conjunction with the downtown Christmas Gathering the village has upgraded the public address system for improved sound.
April Daily recommended approval of the new health insurance program with Blue Cross Blue Shield. The $250 deductible remains with increases in emergency room fees and medications as major changes with no premium increases.
Christmas bonuses for employees remain the same as the previous year with $200 for full time and $100 for part -time employees approved.
Approval was granted Shooter’s Bar and Jerry’s East End Tavern to remain open until 2 a.m. New Year’s Eve.
Zoning coordinator Dave Gregory presented two variance recommendations which were approved. A carport for 101 E. William St. and a garage for 415 S. Panther Dr. were approved with variance requests.
Meeting adjourned with Walker, Daily, Clem, Garmon, Wood and city clerk Alma Fair attending.