Council OK's one law; agrees to rework another for next time

Vernon — Even though they were two very similar ordinances, only one of the bills waiving fees was passed by Vernon’s council at its Dec. 10 meeting. The first ordinance, designed to give the council the power to waive any sort of town fee for first aid squads and fire departments, was unanimously approved. According to Mayor Austin Carew, considering the services those volunteer organizations provide, “The least we can do is allow them to repair their buildings and run their fundraisers without paying fees.” But the second ordinance, designed to allow fee waivers to non-profits, was subject to more debate. Resident Gary Martinson pointed out that the proposed law would allow the council to pick and choose what fees would be waived, which could lead to questions of discrimination by a rejected organization. Township attorney Michael Witt later added, “This is a slippery slope. We can’t say that we like one group and not the other.” The other issue with that proposal was fiscal. “Waiving any fee at this time,” commented Witt, “when the departments are trying to save every penny, could be a substantial hit to the budget.” Councilman Richard Carson agreed, suggesting that the ordinance be tightened up before it’s brought up for a vote. Councilwomen Valerie Seufert and Sally Rinker agreed. The proposed changes suggested included a cap on how much can be waived in a fiscal year and which fees could be waived. The matter should come back before the council at the Jan. 14 meeting after a substantial rewrite.