By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette
During the Oct. 14 meeting of the Panora City Council, the councilmembers heard about progress on two housing sites within the city.
The apartments at 502 W. Market St. are being upgraded, including the installation of new laundry machines. When completed, the 12 units will accept HUD funding.
The council also heard an update on the progress on the building at 113 E. Main St. (the former Panora Food Center). Work has been continuing at a steady pace. Mayor Curt Thornberry stated his happiness in seeing the project moving quickly ahead now.
Later during the meeting, the council unanimously approved a payment of $100,255 regarding the 113 E. Main project. The city is not funding the project but serves as a “pass through” agent for the funds.
The council discussed a written request from Donna Vokes, which stated, in part, “I’m interested in acquiring the piece of land adjoining my property at 112 E. Market. It is where the old water tower sat. We have been maintaining this property for the last 23 years.”
Thornberry noted that the land in question is.08 acre. After discussion, the council consensus was to ask the Planning and Zoning board to make a recommendation, which will then come back to the council for consideration.
Following the acquisition of a new Dodge Durango vehicle for the police department, there was discussion on how to dispose of the 2016 Ford Taurus Police Interceptor car. The council chose to offer it for sale via auction on the “Gov Deals” website, with a reserve price of $4,500.
The next regular meeting of the Panora City Council is set for Monday, Oct. 28 at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall. The public is welcome. Interested persons may attend in person or electronically by visiting the website https://meet.goto.com/cityofpanora or by phone 1-312-757-3121 (Access Code 295-099-701, Audio PIN 220#).