The Wayne City Board of Trustees opted Monday night to table for another month a proposed ordinance updating regulations for installing natural-gas piping in residences. The decision came as concerns linger over who would be liable if something goes wrong after installation. The ongoing discussion originated with a state study showing that copper piping corrodes over time, leading to pinholes and flaking inside natural-gas lines. In response, Illinois has adopted stricter installation standards, and Wayne City is being pressed to update its own ordinances regarding the use of copper piping.
The board initially considered the matter in November but took no action at that time. Monday night’s delay followed an anecdote from workers about another Illinois municipality that was fined roughly $3 million after a gas leak was found in a home with copper piping, even though workers had followed state regulations. By state law, workers are required to shut off natural-gas service if copper piping is discovered, and may not restore service until the line is replaced with black steel or polyethylene piping. A village employee noted that liability may fall on the municipality, even when state protocols are followed. Village workers stressed they are not actively inspecting homes for copper piping, but if it is found during a service call, they must report it and shut off service. With winter approaching, however, workers said they will not disconnect heat solely due to the presence of copper piping.
In other business, trustees approved the purchase of a duty shotgun and rifle, along with necessary accessories, for new Wayne City Police Chief Jason Settle. Settle, who attended the meeting, said the total cost would not exceed $3,920. The firearms will be purchased in the Village’s name, assigned to the Police Department, and used exclusively for law enforcement.
Chief Settle informed the board that he plans to begin enforcing nuisance-property codes, with several properties already identified for warnings and letters. Trustees advised Settle to issue citations “across the board,” irrespective of property ownership. Board members voiced support for upholding the Village’s nuisance ordinances and preparing for any complaints that may arise.
Mayor Rocky Hedden also requested an update from trustee Jarod Peyton regarding efforts to secure a second-shift law-enforcement supplement for Chief Settle. Peyton reported that no progress has been made yet in hiring an additional officer.