In Nov. 18 Issue

In order to simplify the purchasing process, Russell Springs City Council voted unanimously to accept Ordinance 2010-08 after hearing its second reading at their regularly scheduled meeting.

“Basically what this does, is it permits you to buy a ream of paper without having to take bids on it…You may not be able to get three quotes on something and it’s perfectly legal,” said Mayor Hollis DeHart.

Once implemented, the ordinance allows purchases under $3,000 following state bids for small purchases without obtaining responses from three vendors.

Mayor DeHart reported a government entity’s interest in renting the old Russell Springs Police Department for office space at a rate of $500 per month.

Council members voted unanimously in favor of renting the building.

In observance of Veterans Day, Mayor DeHart recognized the commitment and sacrifice of veterans.

“Today is Veterans Day,” DeHart said. “I was fortunate in my time I served that I didn’t have to fight but we have lost millions of men and women and we owe them our thanks and our deep respect and admiration.”

 In other business:

•  Councilman Ray Barrett shared citizens concerns about Trunk or Treat being too commercialized. He suggested separating vendors from Trunk or Treat so that kids and families can better navigate the event. Mayor DeHart mentioned this is the first year Trunk or Treat has been held during a festival. He agreed that the issue needs further attention by the Downtown Revitalization Committee when planning for next year.

• No cleanup fee will be charged to horseback riders in the Russell Springs Christmas Parade. Mayor DeHart said that Larry Holt has volunteered staff to follow the horses and clean the streets of manure during the parade.