The Albion Village Board moved quickly through a financial heavy agenda Thursday evening, approving funding for a new police vehicle and water infrastructure improvements while deciding to hold off on decisions regarding potential utility rate hikes. Mayor Angel Javier Jr., Deputy Mayor Greg Bennett, and Trustee Joyce Riley were present for the meeting, which began at 6:28 p.m. at Village Hall. Trustees Gabalski and McMurray were absent. New Police Fleet and Crosswalk Safety The Board authorized the payment of a $27,884.47 invoice to USBANCORP, covering the initial costs for a 2025 Chevy Tahoe. The move follows a decision to allow the Mayor and Deputy Mayor to sign financing documents for the new vehicle, which will replace aging equipment in the village fleet. In a move to increase safety for local students, the Board also approved a budget adjustment of $5,580 to specifically fund a Crossing Guard position. The adjustment moves money into the expense line for the crossing guard to ensure the role is funded for the year. Upgrades to Water Metering Infrastructure at two of the village’s mobile home parks is set for an upgrade. The Board approved the purchase of two master meters—priced at $3,000 each—to be installed at Oak Orchard Estates and Heritage Estates. The total $6,000 cost will be split between an existing expense line and the water fund balance. Master meters allow the village to better track water usage at specific locations, ensuring accurate billing and leak detection. Funding for the meters follows the approval of several grant reimbursements. The Board authorized budget adjustments to accept $10,462.40 in revenue from the Water Infrastructure Improvement Act (WIIA) grants. These funds reimburse the village for previous work done by Donegan Construction on local water projects. Community Support and Events The village continues to benefit from state grants and private donations. The Board recognized John Grillo for his efforts in securing funds for village parks. Additionally, the Board accepted $5,800 in donations to be placed in the village’s reserve funds. This includes a $4,000 Heritage Wind Grant, $300 in private donations for holiday "reindeer" displays from residents C. Albright, C. Kinter, and J. Holler, and a $1,500 donation from GACRE (Greater Albion Community Resources & Events) for the July 3rd celebration. Looking ahead, the Board approved a request from Royal Body Shop Ministry for its 4th Annual Easter Egg Hunt. The event is scheduled for April 19, 2025, and will include the closure of East State Street from Platt Street to North Main Street. Decisions Delayed While the Board moved forward with spending, they chose to pause on two potentially controversial items. Discussion regarding "Pro-Housing"—an agenda item related to state housing mandates—was tabled until the March 26 meeting. The Board decided to wait until the Village Code Officer can be present to provide technical input. Residents hoping for clarity on their water and sewer bills will have to wait a little longer. The Board tabled discussions on potential rate changes until April 9. Other Business In regular business, the Board approved payments totaling $75,806.35, covering General, Water, and Sewer expenses. They also accepted applications for two seasonal cemetery workers, Thomas Kuzma and Wayne Moyer. The Board voted to deny a request from Scott Kaniecki to remove penalties from a bill at a Linwood Avenue address. The meeting adjourned at 6:43 p.m.