The Guthrie Center City Council met Monday night.

They heard an update from Streets Superintendent Bob Secoy who reports that because of the unseasonably wet winter we’ve experienced, waste-water lagoons are full and will need to be discharged. Lagoons are typically only discharged in the fall and spring.

Additionally, the Council held a public hearing about the vacating of certain alleyways. Feedback from citizens in attendance indicated that they may not want the alleyways vacated, especially if the property is not surveyed first. City Administrator Laura Imerman says she is not aware of the City ever paying for a survey before vacating property. The Council unanimously passed the 1st reading of the ordinance to vacate the alleyways but will research the issue and have further communication with property owners before the next reading is held on January 25th.

Plus, the Council discussed the property maintenance code and rental housing ordinance preliminary draft. The rental housing maintenance code would force landlords to pay for property inspections and make repairs as needed. Local landlord Tom Rutledge owns six single-family rental properties in town and says he doesn’t believe it’s fair that rental properties be held to such a higher standard than owner-occupied homes. The Council took no action on this item and is expected to discuss it more in the future.

Additionally, Councilor Michael Herbert was appointed to the Main Street Guthrie Center Board.