New Cumberland City Council bid farewell to current councilman and former mayor Richard Blackwell at Monday’s meeting.   Mayor Will White asked for a moment of silence at the beginning of the meeting.  Blackwell died November 5.    Mayor Will White said arrangements are being handled by Turley Funeral Home with viewing Wednesday 2 -4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m.  The funeral is slated for Thursday at 11 a.m.

Council voted to host a reception at the City building for Blackwell’s family following the funeral services.

Blackwell was currently serving as a Councilman having previously served as Mayor.  He had a long history of service to the community through public service and the New Cumberland Lions.

“Rest in peace, Richard,” said Councilwoman Judy Bartley.

Mayor White reported that the auction for the City-owned lots adjacent to the former Graham building had been held.  The sole bidder was  the new owner of the Graham building.   Council voted to accept the bid.  The acquisition of the two lots will allow for parking for the building.  The new owner is currently readying the property for renovation.   No bid was received for the third lot on Newman’s Hill.

  Preparations for Christmas are in the making.  Councilman Beau Cline announced  the Park Board will decorate the City Park Wednesday for the holidays weather permitting.  Plans are also being made for trees to be decorated along River Avenue.  A full slate of activities are planned for the Christmas Parade will be held December 10.    Following the parade the Oak Glen Band and chorus will perform and the Lions Club will serve hot chocolate.  The Festival and Parade Committee will be selling poinsettias as a fund raiser in the coming weeks.

In other business, Council:

**Approved monthly invoices of $46,467.79

**Approved a change order of $8,654.25 for the sewer project;

**Approved changea  order for$ 82,260.97 for the water project;

**Announced  the Yard of the Month was awarded to Desiree May for the Halloween Decorations on the old Atkinson house;

**Approved one-time employee appreciation checks of $500 for full-time employees and $250 for part-time employees;

**Approved the Friday after Thanksgiving as a holiday for city workers;

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