By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette
At the June 9 regular meeting of the Guthrie Center City Council, streets department head Darrin Sloss asked the council to consider approving installation of a camera at the “city shop” to deter theft or vandalism. He said some recent incidents have occurred, and a camera could record license plates or other information to help apprehend those committing crimes at the shop. The council approved the request.
Mayor Mike Herbert informed the council that Sheriff Matt Harmann and Chief Deputy Todd Thorn asked Herbert to discuss with the council the possibility of the city purchasing and installing cameras in certain areas of the city, which the Sheriff’s Department could view, to help deter or apprehend criminals.
“They recently had a hit-and-run just north of the courthouse, and if they had a camera, they might have an idea who was around and in town at that time. Panora has eight cameras in their town, and they said they use them extensively,” Herbert said.
The council discussed the idea and asked about the approximate cost. Herbert said the type of camera requested would cost approximately $1,300 each. Herbert said he will ask Harmann to attend an upcoming city council meeting for further discussion.
As previously discussed, the council approved Resolution 2025-10 “Moral Obligation of Loan Agreement with Little Charger ELC.”
Sloss asked the council to consider approving the purchase of a mini excavator and trailer with the cost to be split equally between the city and the Utility Board. City Administrator Kris Arrasmith said the purchase would “pay for itself” quickly since the city would no longer need to rent such machinery for projects. The council approved the city’s share of $13,750 for the excavator and $3,080 for the trailer.
Arrasmith reported that sign-ups for citywide garage sales and citywide cleanup are coming in. She reported 20 signups for garage sales and 47 for cleanup.
The council discussed a homeowner’s request to allow a covered fence at 506 North Second St. The purpose would be to prevent the homeowner’s dogs from barking at passersby. Council members noted that the city ordinance prohibits covering a fence. There was no motion to approve the request, so no action was taken.
The next regular meeting of the city council is set for 6:30 p.m. on Monday, June 23. The public is welcome.