JOHNSTOWN — City Treasurer Michael Gifford’s office continues to develop a bond for city projects and equipment, whose cost is creeping up toward $2 million.
Gifford gave a brief report on the situation to the Common Council Monday night at City Hall.
“We’re working on the bond issue,” he said.
The treasurer first announced publicly in July that his office was working on securing financing for needed city projects and equipment. He said his office was developing a possible $1.6 million bond issue, which represents borrowing by city government. He said he put out requests to city departments.
Gifford told the council Monday that the budget may change for the projects, but the bond is now approaching “close to” $2 million.
Among the items being considered are: a salt storage building, new roof for the Johnstown Senior Citizens Center, garbage truck, plow with sander, excavator, skid steer loader, two pickup trucks with plows, police vehicles and related equipment, pumper truck, pickup truck with plow and cap, new ambulance, and a used garbage truck.
In other reports to the council:
∫ Police Chief David Gilbo said his department logged 820 service calls in August. The department also made 52 arrests, issued 62 citations, and investigated 21 traffic accidents during the month.
∫ City Engineer Christopher Vose said administrative work for the city’s CHIPs paving is done.
“We’re just waiting on a schedule,” he said.
Vose said the city may be paving by the end of October.
He also reported the city updated its confined space training for employees.
∫ Johnstown Senior Citizens Center Director Diedrie Roemer said the center conducted a recent open house that attracted over 125 people, and it was a “huge success.” She also thanked the fire department, which inspected the center.
Roemer said the center recently started a mahjong activity. It is a tile-based strategy game developed in China during the Qing dynasty commonly played by four players.
The center also has open mic from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursdays. Other upcoming activities include: Sept. 26 — soup and sandwiches; Oct. 1 — chair caning class; and Oct. 10 — anniversary at Nicolino’s Restaurant in Amsterdam. The center’s 50 Plus Club will install officers and present an award at the anniversary event.
∫ Internal Control Officer Darryl Purinton reported he presented a capital policy to Mayor Vern Jackson for his review
∫ Another report noted the Johnstown Water Board recently appointed Michael Capparello to the board. The board also took action on the Cork Spillway Rehabilitation Project.
Michael Anich covers Johnstown and Fulton County news. He can be reached at [email protected]
