(KLZA)-- It was an expensive night when the Mound City Board of Aldermen conducted their October meeting earlier this month. 

Schulte Supply resubmitted a bid of $164,184 for a drive-by meter reading system.  The original bid was more than $182,000.  Following a lengthy discussion, Aldermen voted unanimously to approve the new bid.

One bid was received for replacement of water lines on Lincoln Road in Mound City. The bid from Hall Construction for $44,277 was approved.  

Following public hearings to review sewer rates and water rates, Council members voted to leave the rates the same. Rate analysis indicated all the rates are sufficient to support the cost of operation, debt, repair and replacement of reserves. 

Options for group health insurance and life insurance for city employees were reviewed. Aldermen approved renewing the current policy with  Blue Cross /  Blue Shield with a 5.8-percent premium increase.  

The Council also approved special tax bills for nuisance abatement.  The amounts approved were $622 for 611 Grand.  $236 for 410 Frazier;  $311 for  610 East Gillis and $236 for 810 State Street.