Special meeting called for Thursday

The five members of the Ironton City Council who were in attendance at this past Thursday’s regular meeting voted unanimously to adopt a resolution supporting H.R. 3997, the Social Security Administration Accountability Act of 2014, and H.R. 4964, the Seniors Access to Social Security Act of 2014.

Resolution No. 14-35 has city council calling upon legislators to endorse H.R. 3997 and advocate for the retention of local Social Security Administration offices as well as support of HR 4964 to require the continuation of Social Security printouts.

“The closure of (Social Security) offices would result in lost jobs in every community where these vital service offices exist,” according to the resolution. “Personal service provided to individuals at critical points is irreplaceable.”

The resolution was adopted 5-0, with council members Philip Heald and vice mayor Kevin Waldo absent.

Also during the meeting council members Craig Harvey and Beth Rist concurred with council member Aaron Bollinger’s request for a special meeting to discuss the upcoming flood levy.

In an email City of Ironton Finance Director Kristen Martin said the special town hall-type meeting is at 5 p.m. Thursday for the purpose of discussing Ironton’s Replacement Flood Levy.

“I encourage everyone to attend,” Rich Blankenship, Ironton mayor, said. “This meeting will be a good chance to clear up any misconceptions anyone may have about the levy and offer an opportunity for residents to ask questions.”

Council member Bob Cleary said a local insurance agent has been invited to speak about flood insurance rates residents would incur if the levy does not pass.