Paden City Council’s first order of official business was the replacement of two council persons. Mike Turner will represent the First Ward and Ken Stead will fill the position for the Second Ward. The two were unanimously approved by the sitting council members. Upon approval by the members, Mayor Hochstrasser administered the new members the oath of office.

Following a roll call in which all members were present, the mayor asked for approval of the July 7 regular session and the July 17 work session. Members approved.

Susan Wade and BB Smith spoke on preparations for the town’s upcoming Labor Day Parade and festivals. It was also noted that due to the next regular meeting of the council, conflicting with Labor Day, the Council meeting will be held September 2nd at 7:00 pm at the City Building.

“We are going headfirst into Labor Day weekend coming up soon. We have all the entertainment booked. The carnival’s coming, so let’s just hope for great weather, “said Smith. “Come on out. I’d like to see all the city council and the mayor show up.”

Under Citizens Comments: A resident asked if the alley known asTyler Street beside his house could be closed if all parties were in agreement. They were informed that written Petitions needed to be presented to council with all concerned citizens accounted for. After that it would have to be approved by the council. The citizens were advised the way forward would be to obtain a lawyer to properly prepare the documentation.

A representee from Thrasher Engineering presented the progress of sewer and water projects within the city. One of the projects is work on 7th Avenue. He stated that he was not expecting the USDA to approve funding. The cost of the project is $350,000 added to the city’s loan that will be placed in upcoming payments.

The Thrasher representee spoke on funding information concerning city sewer projects. The U.S. Corps of Engineers have secured $1.9 million in grant money. In order for the city to have any part of the grant money, they must come up with matching funds. Thrasher stated that sewer project for the city could total $5.5 million

Superintendent Josh Billiter reported that $5,400 will be needed to complete the water tank and booster station project. A new generator is needed costing $4000 to power the equipment in the advent of power loss.

Billiter is advising the city’s residents to be aware that beginning August 25 through the 29th, city employees will be flow testing. Each time a hydrant is tested, the water in the system may be discolored.

Billiter also explained that on or about August 18th, the city’s pool will be filled allowing pumps to be checked. The pool will not open this season, but this test will make sure it is ready for the 2026 summer season. It was also decided by the council, The Park and Pool Board gave approval to change the bylaws allowing people from outside city limits, to be a member of the board. At the present time only people paying city bills can sit on board.

City crews will begin moving water lines on 3rd Avenue from Jackson Street to Park Street, along with the 200 block Adams Street. This work will begin on September 8th.

A caution was explained, that citizens do not operate the city water valve going to homes. The city water department should be contacted and they will make sure the valve is not damaged in its cycling.

Council approved using $7,000 from Tyler County Commission Grant to repair faulty valves for the drying beds at the sewer treatment plant.

The next meeting will be on Tuesday, September 2nd at 7:00 pm. Due to the Labor Day Holiday.