St. Marys Receives Auditor of State Award, Sets DORA Hearing and Advances Refuse Rate Ordinance

St. Marys City Council heard several updates during its latest meeting, including recognition for the city’s Auditor’s Department, discussion of refuse rates and action related to the downtown DORA.

Mayor Joe Hurlburt said Auditor of State Director of Regional Liaisons Joe Braden attended the meeting to present the Auditor of State Award to the city.

Hurlburt said Braden reviewed the requirements needed to receive the award and noted that St. Marys has now earned the recognition 3 out of the last 4 years. Hurlburt congratulated the city’s Auditor’s Department on receiving the honor.

Council also announced a public hearing will be held April 27 at 6:15 p.m. on the renewal of the city’s designated outdoor refreshment area, or DORA.

On legislation, Hurlburt said council held a 2nd reading of an ordinance to approve revised refuse rates for the city. He said Councilman John Bupp plans to propose an amendment at the next meeting to add emergency language after the ordinance’s 3rd reading and passage.

Hurlburt said that change would move the effective date of the new rates up by about 30 days, shifting the start date from June 1 to May 1. He said the earlier start would help generate revenue sooner as the city works to get its refuse fund back on track.

Council also received new legislation calling for a 5 year review of the DORA and approval of the continued operation of specific public areas in downtown St. Marys. Hurlburt said the review is required every 5 years and will move to a 2nd reading at the next council meeting.

Council later entered executive session to discuss personnel issues and returned without taking further action.