Minutes of December 16, 2024, Regular City Council Meeting at Heritage Hall, 7:00 PM. The Merkel City Council met for a Regular City Council Meeting on December 16, 2024, at Heritage Hall, 7:00 PM. Mayor Schrampfer called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM and announced a quorum present. Council members present were Matthew Riggan, Collin Jacobs, Brady Rutledge and Elaine Chaney. Rode McElreath was absent. Prayer led by Brady Rutledge. Mayor Schrampfer led the Pledge of Allegiance and Texas Pledge. Citizens were given an opportunity to comment. Brady Rutledge motioned to approve the minutes of November 18, 2024, Regular City Council Meeting and December 2, 2024, Called City Council Meetings. Collin Jacobs seconded the motion. Approved 4-0. The council discussed the staff reports. Discussion of the water utility report showing no leaks and questions were asked about a possible billing difference that could cause the loss numbers shown in report. The council looked over the completed projects for time period of 2022-2024. Chief Conklin stated that after hours calls will go directly to Taylor County dispatch, have a patrol position interview on Friday, and a cadet starting the police academy in January. Chief Conklin explained the Stalker Radar mobile trailer that would help with traffic and provide data to the department. Mayor Schrampfer opened the discussion with Mike Boese with Clear Career Professionals for the city manager position. Each councilmember explained the qualities and expectations needed by candidates, discussion of salary and benefits, and residency requirements. Mr. Boese explained the process for recruiting, interviewing, hiring timeline and asked the council about top three priorities for a manager. Discussion of consulting interim City Manager and costs. Mr. Boese stated he would have recruiting brochure by December 20th for approval. Brady Rutledge's motion to adjourn and seconded by Collin Jacobs. Approved 4-0. Meeting Adjourned at 8:16 PM. dul. YMg - MAns Evelyn Morse, City Secretary Mark Schrompfek. _Mayor - - fichampk