The Rockwood City Council met on Monday, October 27, at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall. Under old business, the council unanimously repealed an ordinance that required property owners to pay a sewage fee for service lines running in front of their property, even if not connected. Property owners not hooked up to the sewer may now submit a written request to the Rockwood Water, Wastewater, and Gas Systems Board to have the fee removed from their monthly bills. Unlike the city of Kingston, which recently began requiring payment for sewage service regardless of connection, Rockwood’s action eliminates this charge for unconnected properties.

Under new business, the council unanimously approved a resolution to apply for a $1 million grant to rebuild the community center swimming pool, potentially enhancing it into an aquatic center. The grant requires a $149,000 match from the city, with possible additional costs depending on approval and construction timelines; further details on the city’s contribution will follow if the grant is awarded. All council members agree a new city swimming pool is needed.

The council also approved a contract for a company to inspect and maintain roofs on all city buildings in preparation for winter and beyond, including City Hall, the Police Department, Fire Department, Community Center, and Library. Additionally, a fire services contract was approved for the Rockwood Fire Department to respond to incidents at DWK Life Sciences (formerly Chase Scientific) in the industrial park.

In other business, the council approved hiring two full-time public works employees, Nicholas Bowman and Ebey Vinny Martinez, and Bradley Swafford as a police officer. Swafford, age 53, has no prior law enforcement experience and will attend the Police Academy for certification.

In announcements, Trunk-or-Treat will be held downtown on Friday, Halloween night, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., with trick-or-treating throughout the city during the same hours. A Taste of the Holidays event is scheduled for downtown on Saturday, November 22. The next Rockwood City Council meeting is Monday at 6:00 p.m.