02/12/13 It was a quick meeting for the Plymouth Board of Public Works and Safety Monday night. Department heads Utility Superintendent Donny Davidson, Fire Chief Rod Miller and Police Chief Dave Bacon each presented their monthly reports. Bacon also sought and was granted approval to seek quotes for new squad cars which are in this year’s budget. Street Superintendent Jim Marquardt was also granted approval to seek quotes for a new street sweeper that is budgeted for this year.
Larry Balmer appeared before the Board of Public Works and Safety in support of a lease between the City of Plymouth and the Veterans Therapeutic Art Center. V-TAC would like to lease out the top floor of the Old Fire House and use as a place to showcase their artwork and offer smaller classes for painting and jewelry making along with group meetings. Balmer said the plan to be open 20 to 30 hours weekly.
There are some issues with the building, not just on the outside but the inside too including a hole in the ceiling on the second story and problems with the carpet due to a flood in 2008. Balmer said many of their members have offered to provide manpower and experience in making necessary repairs if the city will allow a reduction in rent for material purchase for the improvements. Rent will be $300 monthly and V-TAC plans to move in of March 1st.
Councilman Wayne Smith mentioned during the Board of Public Works and Safety meeting that he received an email about the condition of the Old Firehouse. Mayor Senter said it wasn’t in the budget for 2013 but he did plan to put money in next year’s budget. He commented, “It’s something we need to do.”
