Royal City citizens may get special day

Residents along Daisy Street endured harsh construction

ROYAL CITY — Royal City City Council discussed recognizing the patience of their citizens Tuesday night.

Citizens who live along Daisy Street in Royal City roughed it out for several weeks while the city replaced water pipes and did other construction along the street. There were many days citizens had their water shut off for most of the day, Public Works Director Todd Perry said. Many had their yards torn up. Residents were forced to park far away from their homes to trudge through the mud, he added.

Council member Michael Noftle asked what could be done to thank their citizens for their patience and cooperation through the project.

"I'd like to see a break on their water bill," Perry said.

The city heard no complaints about the construction and there was even an instance where a resident brought hot chocolate to the crew, he said.

"They only paid for what they used, anything else is gifting in Washington," City Attorney Jim Whitaker said.

If the city "gifts" there is trouble with the state auditor.

Council could adopt a citizen recognition policy to get around the auditor issue, he said. The city could declare a special day to host a celebration such as a picnic or a barbecue to recognize citizens.

Noftle favored the idea because he felt the city should "repay the graciousness."

"In the least a (thank-you) letter can be written," Mayor Justin Jenks said.

Council took no action on the issue.