By JANE VAJNAR

Contributing writer

Durham City Council decided Dec. 7 to participate in the Marion County Neighborhood Revitalization Plan.

Rebates are available to property owners who build new structures or make improvements on existing buildings. The plan may encourage property owners to make improvements; however, the city could lose some future taxes during the five-year rebate period.

“I don’t see any harm in it,” Tom Harmon said. “I don’t think there would be a negative impact.”

The council agreed and passed the motion.

Mayor Mike Sorenson asked if it would be wise to set up an e-mail account for the city. The council agreed it would be and Harmon volunteered to set up an account.

The council discussed the need to replace the city’s Christmas decorations. No action was taken.

Councilman Gary Unruh said an updated water system instruction manual would be helpful. Sorenson said it has been difficult for him to find a replacement for Verlin Sommerfeld, former water and sewer supervisor. The council discussed ways to cover the duties until the position could be filled.

During November, 270,300 gallons of water were pumped and 257,920 gallons were sold for a loss of 4.95 percent. The pumps at the lift station ran nearly 47 hours.

Sommerfeld also reported the meter wasn’t working at the pump house. A new meter was installed. He also reported he replaced hydrants and a tube.

“I need to show someone how to do that,” Sommerfeld said.

Bills approved for payment included $66 to Kansas League of Municipalities for dues, $330 to replace a gas valve on the pump house furnace, and $3,665 for replacement of hydrants.