Alleged backhoe joyriding questioned
Staff writer
Resident Dan Martel addressed members of Peabody City Council Thursday about concerns he had that public works employees “joyride” in the city’s backhoe.
“Letting that good piece of equipment deteriorate because it’s used for jobs that it’s not necessary and not designed to do,” Martel said.
He requested a truck be purchased for city workers to use instead of the backhoe, and let the backhoe be used only for jobs it’s designed for.
Mayor Larry Larsen said the council would investigate his allegations.
Police chief Bruce Burke said he finished an investigation health and safety concerns at 205 S. Olive St.
He will be sending a notice to co-owners Theresa D. Dix and Mary L. Johnson, as well as the current tenant, with instructions to clean up the violations.
Planning and zoning commission chairman Jim Rippe asked for an exception to the setback of property at the Affordable Street Rods building.
After measuring, Rippe said the building is in compliance. Council members voted to grant the exception.
Peabody Fall Festival committee member Ginger Whitney said the group will meet in January to start planning the Sept. 21, 2019 festival.
She requested the city be the umbrella 501(c)(3) to apply for a Peabody Foundation grant. It was unanimously approved.
N.M. Patton shared a concept of how the city park will look after installation.
Patton told council members the park committee would also be applying for the foundation grant.