The Guthrie Center City Council met Monday night.

The Council began discussion on a proposed ordinance to allow certain All Terrain Vehicles (ATV) and Utility Task Vehicles (UTV) on some city streets, not including state highways 25 and 44. Preliminary talks introduced by Councilor Randy Nickel indicate that the reason for the ordinance would not be to allow for recreational activities, but to provide residents another way to perform business, industrial and yard work tasks. The Council will research similar ordinances around the state, work with local law enforcement on creating the ordinance and is expected to further discuss the topic at their May 9th meeting.

Additionally, the Council met with State Architectural Historian Paula Mohr to discuss becoming a Certified Local Government (CLG). Becoming a CLG would entail the City creating a Historic Preservation Commission which becomes part of the local government. Mohr says such a commission can be sustained with a budget of about $750/year, for small projects and travel to regional conferences. The Commission serves as the preservation voice in community decisions and should be pro-active in long-term city planning. Although CLG status has no direct financial benefits for the city, Mohr stated that having the designation can make it easier to receive some grants.

Plus, the Council discussed City Hall staffing regarding the pending retirement of Deputy City Clerk Donna Benton. Benton, who is eligible to begin receiving monthly retirement benefits through IPERS in July has reportedly indicated a desire with some city leaders to soon retire, but has not yet formally announced a date to end her employment. The Council will likely meet with the Utility Board in early May to jointly discuss the topic, though a date has not yet been officially set.

Finally, the Council approved the swapping of two committee assignments for Councilors. Randy Nickel is now on the Main Street Board and Michael Herbert is now on the Emergency Management Board.