It was like a scene you would see in a movie, but it was simply the Tama City Council Meeting. Judy Womack spoke on behalf of Tama EMS asking for an on-call pay increase. Womack was simply asking for a $1 raise for those who tirelessly work for the emergency services, but something different happened.

Tama City Council member Danny Robinson spoke up and said that he didn’t think that was enough. Robinson proposed a $2 increase, stating among other reasons the high call rate of late. This caught some by surprise, even Womack, who stated, “Sweet baby Jesus.” The $2 raise was approved.

Also, with EMS, it was approved to increase second unit pay from $20 to $30. This is for those who have to show up for backup to a call, meaning two ambulances are on the scene. The most common situation in which a second unit is to be called is for a traffic accident. Tama EMS has been averaging 115 calls a month.

A resolution for an employee wage increase was approved. Water and sewer write-offs were approved in the approximate amount of $1,600.

The council approved advertising for the rental space at the old paper mill. It was approved to talk to the owners of 504-508 John Street.

The Tama Fire Department reported getting new boots, with more new gear on the way. They are also in need of volunteers.

Police Chief Jason Bina reported that the traffic cameras, which were put up recently costing the city of Tama nothing and using no tax money, have stopped issuing tickets as of June 17. More will be done in the future to see if the cameras can be used with the passing of the new state law.

The K-9 fundraising is going well, they have reached approximately $19,000. They have gone forward and made a commitment for the dog. Between May 14 and June 17, the Tama Police Department received 334 calls to service which included eight domestic disturbances, 25 suspicious persons or vehicles, and one scam.

The public works department put up signs on the trail. Work is also being done. The water department reported that the pilot test is still moving forward.

The wastewater department reported that they received the new screen, and Woodruff Construction will install it at the plant. The library reported that the new director will start at the beginning of July and will start coming to council meetings with updates.

The nuisance department reported having mowed 40 lawns, and done four zoning permits. The clerk is getting ready for the end of the fiscal year.