Noel Prohibits Use Of Engine Brakes COUNCIL APPROVES BUDGET; NO EMPLOYEE RAISES COMING IN 2017

The Noel City Council passed a noise ordinance at its meeting Tuesday night.

The noise ordinance prohibits the use of engine brakes, also known by the brand name Jake Brake, within the city limits of Noel on Highway H, Highway 59 and Highway 90.

The council had discussed the noise ordinance at previous meetings, saying the excessive noise from truckers using their engine brakes is a disturbance to the peace of the community.

Also Tuesday, the council learned that Alderman Tammy White resigned between meetings. Mayor John Lafley said Tina White, who is of no relation to Tammy White, was willing to take on the position. The council appointed Tina White to the position.

Without much discussion, the council passed the 2017 budget.

“There’s not much wiggle room in this budget,” Lafley said. “There’ll be no raises because we just can’t afford it. It’s pretty much the same as what we had this year. I’m disappointed in the taxes we got this year.”

The council also voted to ratify a phone poll consensus approving the purchase of a 2008 police interceptor vehicle for $1,800.

Wastewater Superintendent Keith Harris told the council it has been the consensus of the council every 10 years to replace a vehicle for his department. He reported he puts money back every month for a replacement vehicle, and he recently learned he has enough for a replacement. He suggested giving the old vehicle, a 10-year-old Chevrolet truck, to the Street Department. He said the Street Department is down a vehicle and could use a second one for a snow plow.

“He’s kept that vehicle up,” Lafley said. “It’s been maintained. Going out and getting another vehicle, we might not know what we’re getting.”

A discussion arose about whether to allow Harris to pursue purchasing a new vehicle. The council voted to allow him to try to get the best price he could find and check with Lafley before purchasing it.