This week’s Tama City Council meeting began with the discussion of a topic that’s been on many iowan’s lips as of late, fireworks. The council decided to align the Tama ordinance with the state’s new law, allowing the setting off of fireworks on July 3, July 4 and Dec. 31. After approving the first reading, the council went ahead and waived the second and third readings, expediting the ordinance, and getting it right on the books.

The council then moved on to approve the second pay application for the 5th Street project. An update reported that the project is currently at a standstill, while compaction testing on the street is being done.

An easement for Alliant was approved.

Ambulance volunteer officer pay and meeting pay were approved. This is a program that was cut some years ago for budget reasons. These volunteer officers will be paid quarterly. The EMS Director will receive $50 per quarter, the EMS Assistant Director, Treasurer, Secretary, and Maintenance Officers will receive $37.50 per quarter. Volunteers who attend regular business meetings will also receive $5.

The council approved an EMS employee, Amanda Morris, to take a Critical Care Paramedic class. The city will pay for the class, books, and mileage.

An update on the 28E agreement between the Tama and Toledo Police Departments explained that it is no longer being used. This agreement was for Tama officers to help cover the shifts for the Toledo Police Department. As the Toledo Department has now employed a few more officers, they will be able to cover all shifts by themselves. The 28E agreement between all local law enforcement departments to act as help and backup is still in effect.