The Durbin Town Council filled two positions at its Monday night meeting.

Town resident Kenny Lehman was the only person to apply for the council vacancy advertised in The Pocahontas Times. Council unanimously accepted Lehman. He was sworn into office by Mayor Mike Vance. Lehman takes the seat of Pat Woodford, who recently died.

Anna Kane took the oath of office from Mayor Vance to serve as the town recorder. She will continue to serve as town treasurer. Since Kane lives outside the town limits a special ordinance allowing her to serve in this position was read for the third time Monday evening.

Council decided to hold a Christmas lighting contest. Council members will judge between the hours of 6-10 PM on Saturday, December 16. First place will receive $25, second, $15, and third, $10. Thelma Smith announced that the Durbin Beautification Committee would pay half of the prize money.

Vance updated Council on the sewage treatment plant. He said the baffles and scrimmers are in place, the fence has been cleared of brush and the lagoon is filling up.

Lehman had a report on statewide dog and all terrain vehicle ordinances. Vance said the problem in both areas is enforcement.

After executive session, Vance said council wantedﾠ Ricky Barkley, operator of the Pocahontas Public Service District, address them concerning town bills.

Vance also asked council for $4,000 from the sewer, general, coal severance and revenue sharing accounts to reduce the principle onﾠ the dump truckﾠ and the fire truck damage. Councilﾠ passed the motion.

Council member Nancy Benetato participated in the meeting and voted by speakerphone.