The Charleston City Council approved waiving the bidding procedures on nearly $300,000 worth of purchases.

Two resolutions were purchases for the Public Works Department, one for the purchase of a 2020 Ford F350 V8 diesel flatbed truck for no more than $67,493 and the other for the purchase of a 2019 John Deere Tractor with a Tiger Boom Mower attachment for no more than $120,000 from Rahn Equipment Company.

Another resolution waived bidding procedures for the purchase of a 2020 Ford F150 V6 truck for the Maintenance Department and a 2020 Ford F150 V8 truck in the Street Department. The purchases are not to exceed $58,481.

The council also approved the waiving of bidding procedures on the purchase of a new 2021 TV450B compact track loader for the Street Department, that will be $43,500.The track loader will be purchased from Birkey’s Construction Equipment, the company the city has been renting a track loader from.

The council also voted to increase water and sewer service rates.

Previously, the rates for water and sewer service within corporate limits were $15.94 per 1,000 gallons for the first 10,000 gallons and $15.34 per 1,000 gallons for anything over 10,000 gallons.

The rate for Eastern was $15.34 per 1,000 gallons.

The rates for the use of water services only within corporate limits were $14.49 per 1,000 gallons for the first 10,000 gallons and $13.93 per 1,000 gallons for anything over 10,000 gallons.

Council members approved a three percent increase.

Rates for water and sewer service within corporate limits will now be $16.42 per 1,000 gallons for the first 10,000 gallons and $15.76 per 1,000 gallons for anything over 10,000 gallons.

The rate for Eastern will be $15.76 per 1,000 gallons.

The rates for the use of water services only within corporate limits will now be $14.78 per 1,000 gallons for the first 10,000 gallons and $14.12 per 1,000 gallons for anything over 10,000 gallons.

The council approved on the reappointment of Adam Fifield to a 3-year term on the Fire and Police Board of Commissioners.

The continuation of the local state of emergency was approved.

Four proclamations were also voted on, one recognizing April as Parliamentary Law Month, one recognizing April 4-10 as National Library Week, one recognizing April 30 as Arbor Day and one recognizing April as Autism Awareness Month.

The reason for honoring Parliamentary Law Month is that “it is important to remember that the correct use of parliamentary procedure protects the rights of the majority, the minority, individual members, absentees, and all of these together, all the while fostering orderly deliberation,” according to the proclamation.

Charleston will recognize National Library Week because “libraries are a resource for all members of the community regardless of race, ethnicity, creed, ability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or socio-economic status, by offering services and educational resources that transform lives and strengthen communities,” according to the proclamation.

Arbor Day will be celebrated  because “trees in our City increase property values, enhance the economic vitality of business areas, and beautify our community,” according to the proclamation.

Autism Awareness Month will be celebrated because “all individuals should have the opportunity to live full, independent lives and follow their talents wherever they lead. In April, we recognize those with ASD who are achieving and breaking down barriers,” according to the proclamation.

The next council meeting will be April 20.

Corryn Brock can be reached at 581-2812 or at [email protected].