By Brett R. Whitling
Clarion News writer
After two recommended applicants turned down the position for Knox Borough maintenance, Knox Borough Council is raising the hourly wage for the position and all current maintenance employees.
The hourly wage offered to the applicants was $10.60; but after two rejections, council is concerned of not finding anyone to work for the amount.
Knox Borough Council Member Linda Runyan made the suggestion of raising the rate and extra $1.90 per hour for the new position and to make things fair, Knox Borough’s three maintenance personnel will receive the same wage when the new employee is hired.
If the new employee denies health benefits, their wage will be $15 per hour in lieu of the health benefits.
If an employee originally denies the health benefits, council said they would have a chance to enroll at a later time.
The hourly rate increase will cost the borough an extra $832 per employee per year; a total of $2,496 per year for the three employees.
The borough is looking to act quickly on hiring someone new as Runyan expressed concern for the amount of overtime being accumulated by the current employees.
A lot of extra work is being generated from the sewage plant which was built several years ago.
The next work session on July 16 is being turned into a regular meeting to hire a new employee.
Grass clippings
Due to complaints, Knox Borough Council would like to remind residents not to blow grass clippings onto the road when mowing.
Knox Borough Police Chief Joab Orr said anyone in violation of this ordinance can be subject to a fine up to $300.
Council appreciates your cooperation.
Horsethief road closure
– 4 to 10 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 14;
– 11:45 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 15;
– 3:34 to 10 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 16;
– 12 to 10 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 17; and
– 6:45 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 18.
Questions and concerns can be made to Chief Orr, Ron Best or Linda Runyan.
Events for Horsethief Days will run from Aug. 11 through 19.