Hampton approves lease renewal for water tower space

The Hampton City Council held their regular meeting on Thursday, February 25.

At the meeting, the council discussed a lease renewal with Woolstock Mutual Telephone Association for use of space on the city's water tower. This is the third year of the lease and the city receives $950 per month for the space, which has been paid in full in advanced.

Council member Barry Lamos asked if the city has asked for a higher price for the space. City Administrator Ron Dunt explained that the current price is in-line with what neighboring communities offer, but he would look into it further if that is what the council wants.

"I think for this particular set-up it's a fair price," said Dunt.

The lease renewal was unanimously approved.

In other business, the council received a report from council member Jim Davies from the Hampton Historic Preservation Commission, who reported that last year was disrupted by the pandemic and they are hoping to become more active again in the coming season.

"COVID, like most everything else, sort of derailed most of our activities," said Davies.

The council also discussed two houses that are scheduled for a controlled burn this year.

The city has been granted a court order to demolish the property at 921 4th St. NW and also plans to take care of another property at 120 3rd St., NW, which they took ownership of last year.

Both properties will need to be inspected for asbestos and have that removed before they can be burned, however Public Works Director Doug Tarr anticipates both properties should be down before July.

As an aside, Tarr has also noted that his department is aware of troubles with the city's eastern tornado siren and is worked to get it repaired.

Finally, it was noted that the first reading of the moratorium on new bars will be held during their workshop meeting on Monday, March 15.