MENDOTA – Renewing insurance premiums and adding to the police force were among the items handled by the Mendota City Council at its Jan. 7 regular meeting.

In aldermanic reports, John Pierson started a discussion on the future of ESDA (Emergency Services & Disaster Agency) civil defense in Mendota. It was decided to disband ESDA in Mendota and transfer that responsibility to the Mendota Fire Department. The council will be updated on the civil defense of the city through the public safety committee.

Alderman Bill Hunt presented information on the city’s health insurance renewals for 2019. He reported that the premium for Blue Cross Blue Shield increased by 2.13 percent over last year, the Met Life premium went up 5 percent and the VSP (vision) premium stayed the same.

Hunt also announced that the Revolving Loan Fund Committee recommended granting a loan to Rudy and Michelle Arteaga, the new owners of Pizzas by Marchelloni, which was approved by the council. The loan is for $150,000 over seven years at an interest rate of 3 percent.

Alderman Kyle Kim presented the names of two men for employment consideration with the Mendota Police Department. The hiring of Shawn Emmet and Daniel Hernandez on a part-time basis was approved by the council.

In action from alderman Randy Morris’s report, the council approved a liquor license for Pizzas by Marchelloni and tabled a liquor license request from Club Audrey 61 pending a background check and legal consultation.

In the Mayor’s Report, David Boelk read a proclamation declaring Jan. 20-26 as Mendota School Choice Week.

Also from the mayor, it was announced that Dean Lubbs submitted his resignation from the Police & Fire Commission, which was accepted with regret. Boelk will announce the appointment of a replacement at a future meeting.

The next regular meeting of the Mendota City Council will be Monday, Jan. 21 at 6:30 p.m.