Grosse Pointe Woods Feels Pinch from Fuel Price Hike

Grosse Pointe Woods City Council will move $34,500 from several city budgets to cover spiking fuel costs.

Council approved the transfer Monday night. More than two-thirds of the money will be taken from three accounts: administration, finance and parks and recreation.

According to a memo submitted by Joseph Ahee, director of public works, the transfer is necessary to cover four fuel purchases that are scheduled from now through the end of the fiscal year June 30.

The fuel purchases are expected to exceed the remaining budgeted funds and would prevent the city's vehicles from receiving any maintenance. Ahee also requested the transfer of $20,000 from the general fund to the motor vehicle maintenance fund, which the council approved.

Ghesquiere Gazebo Repairs Requested

At the request of Councilwoman Vicki Granger and approval by other members, the city will receive estimates on repairs to the gazebo at Ghesquiere Park. Granger said she discovered the state of disrepair Sunday. Council members participated in the Grosse Pointe Woods-Shores Little League Parade, which ended at Ghesquiere Park. 

Special Water Meters Approved

The Woods city council also approved about $12,000 to purchase nine special water meters to conform with the new automatic reader system. The current meters cannot be fitted with the encoder necessary for the new system to work and complete replacement is necessary. 

Public Hearing Set

The Grosse Pointe Woods City Council will hear from the public during a hearing May 16. It will begin at 7:30 p.m. and concerns the proposed 2011-12 fiscal year budget, which includes a proposed tax millage increase.

Unpaid Bills 

More than $6,300 in unpaid bills sent out by the city will be added to homeowners' or business owners' next tax bills. Woods treasurer Dee Ann Irby requested permission from council Monday, which they approved. The majority of the unpaid bills stem from grass cutting and property maintenance at $4,098, according to a memo.