Council president Stan Moore urged residents to help out with the upcoming Burlington Fall Festival. "If people call and need your help, please respond," he said at last week's council meeting.

"The Festival is a jewel in our crown and we want Burlington to shine during the week of the festival," he added.

The annual Fall Festival will be held Friday through Sunday, Sept. 19-21.

Town attorney Justin Alter explained that the town's ordinances on unkept properties are clear and nothing new needs to be done. After a notice is sent out the property owner has ten days to clean their property up. They can be penalized $100 per day for failing to meet the deadline.

Alter reminded the council that if all else fails, the town can place a lien on the property but the judgment may not be satisfied until the owner tries to sell his property which he cannot get free title to until liens are satisfied.

Al Jackson reported the first community newsletter has been distributed and comments have been positive. The newsletter will be distributed on a quarterly basis with the next issue set for January.

He expressed appreciation to Postmaster Tonya Sherrod for all her help and suggestions.

The newsletter, as well as a community website, are both outcomes of the recent community wide forum. Work continues on the website, said Jackson.

Marshal Jill Hammond reported that police have suspects in custody and are awaiting DNA analysis to tie them to crimes in town.

She said in August she issued 26 tickets, 9 warnings, 3 gun permits, made 5 case reports, had 34 calls for service and performed 6 VIN checks, while Deputy Marshal Kevin Hammond investigated 1 accident, made 4 arrests, issued 4 citations and 8 warnings, and had 15 calls for service. They also assisted other agencies.

Larry Sedwick reported for the park board that most of the painting is done and rewiring will be done after the Fall Festival.

Council member Ted Huffer reported that the drainage tile has been replaced from Washington Street past the first junction box at the locker plant at a cost of around $11,000. He said the tile was full of debris and after getting it cleared out and replaced with new 12-inch tile it is working well.

Fred Michael said that they are ready to go with leaf pickup and will watch the weather as to when to start.

Miles Harshbarger has equipment that he will permit the town to use to trim tree limbs. He will be reimbursed at an hourly rate for use of his equipment.

Town officials said they are having trouble getting the DNR to reposition or move signs that are obstructing driver views. Another letter will be sent.

The 2009 budget was approved.

The next meeting will be Oct. 14 at 7 p.m.