Hope plans fun Fourth

HOPE — A dazzling July 4 fireworks display that will be set off from Kramer's barge in Ellisport Bay is being planned by Hope Marina.

Costing $10,000 for the exhibit, Paul Madden told the Hope City Council that he is requesting that the city send letters to residents discouraging private fireworks displays.

The council approved a motion to donate $500 for the display to the Hope/East Hope Fire Department.

There will be a new, improved look to the entrance of the Hope Cemetery in the coming months. Frank Schuck of Hope Cemetery Committee told the council he had finished drawings for an entrance to the cemetery.

Stone columns will mark the entrance, and traffic would be directed in a one-way direction along with signs informing drivers. Property lines still need to be located and marked, he added.

The council also passed a motion to accept Resolution #162, which sets fees for beer, wine and liquor. Copies of a water ordinance and proposed changes were presented to the council by Bryan Qualyle. Water rates would be established by a resolution. Council members also discussed having new owners put in meters when they purchase property within the city and how often the meters would be read.

An Aug. 31 public hearing has been scheduled for the city's 2005-06 budget.