CLAYPOOL — The Claypool town council meeting, held last night, Monday, Oct. 19, was set to be a simple budgetary meeting, along with a few updates on current issues and a set time from trick-or-treat.

The 2016 budget for Claypool was read and passed, totaling $197,252, a $60,000 decrease from last year. The budget is divided into $2,647 for a rainy day fund, $149,752 into a general fund, $14,000 into local roads and streets, $27,353 into motor vehicle highways and $3,500 into a cumulative capital. The current tax levy totals at $91,600.

While the budget was approved, the council made sure to let the town know that the town can only pay for what is necessary. “We’ve already had to cut $60,000 out of the budget, so we don’t have the money for anything unnecessary,” said board member Niki Miller.

The website for Claypool is also up and running, with only minor details and information left to be posted.

The council also advised that signs be placed along roads to signify that no parking is to be permitted between 4-6 a.m. for snow plowing, per ordinance, effective Nov. 1.

In other business,

• The council approved a payment to Dixon Engineering and Inspection Services for a fixed amount of $1,800 for inspection of the water tower in Claypool.
• Trick-or-treat times were set for 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31.
• The Pontem Software is in the final stages, and a down payment has already been made. The software will significantly reduce the amount of time spent on cemetery files.
• An admin meeting was scheduled and approved for 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 29. The admin meeting will cover the salary ordinance.
• Residents attended to advise the council to begin making decisions regarding the town’s population and water bills. The council advised that while there was not much they can do, they will do what they can.

The next Claypool town council meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 16.