The Hope Board of Directors met Tuesday night to discuss waiving a bid ordinance, additional hangar rental rates for helicopters, and the board tour and luncheon.

After the meeting was called to order, the minutes from the September 21 meeting were read and approved.

The board’s first order of business was to consider waiving a bid ordinance for the repair of a ladder truck. The motion was read by the city attorney and after lengthy discussion, was voted down. Competitive bidding will continue on truck repairs.

The board’s second agenda item was considering a hangar rate change for helicopters. Don Ruggles has requested a reduced hangar rate for helicopters. The hangar rate is currently $110 per month. Ruggles cites that, since helicopters take up far less room, he would like the rate dropped to around $30 or $40 per month. Motion for $50 per month was accepted by the board.

The board then discussed their annual Board Tour. The board considered the 26th of the month, with the possibility of waiting until November. City Hall was floated as a possible venue, as was Hempstead Hall. The 9th of November was put down as a tentative date, to be determined later.

The city manager’s report was read by Catherine Cook, noting that Phase One of the rail project was done, but drainage work was continuing. A personnel shortage was noted, with several positions open. The city is also working on more projects that will be brought forward in the future.

The board then went into executive session, which lasted approximately thirty minutes. No action was taken tonight. One citizens’ request by Hazel Simpson entailed trucks on Third Street blocking the view of traffic. Clear cutting of other streets was also requested.

The meeting adjourned at 8:28 p.m.