Perhaps the most spirited discussion the Clinton City Council has had on some time revolved around the City seeking bids for mowing of City parks and cemeteries.

The contracts seek to save the City money by transferring employees to other departments. Clinton City Commissioner Dan Ballenger had several concerns over the contracts, specifically if this is a cost-savings measure.

The bids were proposed as a two-year contract, however, Commissioners were reluctant to not have an opt-out clause after one year. Commissioner John Wise offered his thoughts on the matter....

According to City Treasurer Clint Lichtenwalter, the City will save money through this agreement. He explains it will cost more for salaries, insurance, social security, and those kinds of expenses, in addition to equipment maintenance costs.

Ballenger hoped to have the votes tabled to a later date so more analysis could be done on them, however, those attempts were not supported by other Council members. 

The Council approved LKM Mowing and Landscaping for the cemetery bid at $80,704 while the parks' bid was for just over awarded to Reinhart Grounds Maintenance, Inc. for just over $28,800.

The bids were approved, however, the contracts could be modified and so they will not become official agreements until signed. 

The Council Monday night also agreed to a supplemental agreement with Cummins Engineering for just over $35,900.