LAKEPORT — “This was the last thing I expected tonight,” said newly-elected mayor, Kenny Parlet. Outgoing mayor Tom Engstrom said he was “honored and grateful to the council and the citizens of Lakeport” for his service.
Then, the council got down to business and made some investments. First, they awarded a million dollar contract to Farr Construction for the completion of the USDA water storage tank repair and recoating project. City Engineer Scott Harter said he was “pleased with the results.”
Next, the council agreed, with some hesitation, to purchase two maintenance vehicles from Corning Ford. Engstrom said that “it hurts to not buy local.” City Attorney David Ruderman advised them that they were obligated to proceed with the lowest bid. Public Works Director Mark Branigan said the Redding dealer had secured a special “government pricing” deal, which saved money for the city.
Honors and appointments were then on tap. Barbara Bruenig presented Lonnie Griffin and Janis Mills with the first place award for the house holiday decorating contest. She invited residents to visit the Lakeport city web page for photos and descriptions.
George Spurr was re-appointed to the Vector Control Board. He said the board had secured organic pesticides for its mosquito abatement efforts. Spurr also advised the room that “only female mosquito”s suck blood,” which prompted a few citizens to mumble metaphors.
Paula Duggan, Christine Hutt, and Taira St. John were in attendance to serve on the Lakeport Economic Development Committee. They all expressed their aspirations to help the city develop strategies to encourage economic endeavors and coordinate with private businesses. Suzanne Russell was also there to accept her appointment to the Parks and Recreation Committee.
The evening was not without conflict. Mike Ananos, speaking for the 80 homeowners in the Del Lago subdivision, asked the council to grant a permit to build a maintenance storage shed. They received a “stop notice” because of easements and sewer lines. The council assured Ananos that a resolution will be forthcoming.
In other business, City Planner Andrew Britton presented photos of widespread violations of temporary signage, banner, and feather flag usage. “They really cheapen the appearance of our city,” he said. A more detailed description of the issues will appear in the Record-Bee this week.
Finally, outgoing Mayor Engstrom said with a smile that he wanted “close to the man with the gun” as he took his new seat near Police Chief Brad Rasmussen.
