A lengthy board meeting was held in Enfield on Tuesday, lasting just over two hours. The main topics discussed included recent burglaries in the area and a proposed clothing stipend for utility department employees. The meeting began with Mayor Maurie Black addressing a recent burglary at the park’s concession stand, where sports equipment was stolen. Additional break-ins have occurred in the area, prompting the board to consider installing cameras to help catch those responsible.
Nearly an hour into the meeting, the board entered executive session to discuss a clothing stipend for utility department employees. After 50 minutes, it was decided that each of the three utility employees will receive a $350 annual stipend for clothing, including boots. The stipend must be spent each year, with no carryover allowed.
During the same session, it was also determined that the village office will be open Monday through Friday from 7 AM to Noon and from 1 to 4 PM for residents to pay utility bills. If the secretary is absent, a replacement will be provided to ensure the office remains staffed. Village employees are required to give 24-hour notice before taking time off and are discouraged from taking leave in the five days leading up to the 20th of each month.
In the police report, Officer Brandon Smythe announced that the squad car has been equipped with a new radio and radar system. The police department will continue to investigate the recent break-ins.
During old business, the completion of street lighting awaits jackhammer work near the post office. Estimates for Community Center repairs are still being prepared, work continues on the park grant application, and the parcel of land on Miller Street remains for sale and open for bids.
In new business, the board received a thank you card from the Burnt Prairie/Enfield Masonic Lodge for their donations to the Angel Christmas Tree program. Additionally, the board will seek a new bed for the state truck due to the collapse of the old one and is also searching for a burnisher—a tool used to polish, smooth, or shape surfaces—for the Community Center gym floor.