Fans of Galva’s long-time pharmacist Scott Caravello filled the council chambers Monday night when he was honored for his dedication to the community.

A standing ovation followed the presentation of an award, which read, in part “Scott Caravello has exhibited an exemplary commitment to the advancement of Galva, its civic events, community programs, sports teams, and music scene, as well as bringing credit to the City of Galva with his medical mission to stricken Haiti. Scott Caravello exemplifies that which is best for a citizen, as evidenced by his words: “‘I fell in love with the community.’”

“The Mayor and City Council of Galva recognize Scott Caravello for his thirty-two years of unselfish service to the City, and this Resolution does explicitly state that his City shall always and forever admire the man who “‘did good by stealth and blushed to find it fame.’”

Caravello thanked the council and encouraged the crowd to support local businesses, as he had, adding, “I love Galva, and being here has been a wonderful experience.”

Council matters on the agenda included news that the Property Replacement Tax was down by around $21,000 from last year. Dyer noted that several other taxes had increased, which made up for some of the shortfall.

Dyer also noted that the state’s mandated 1 percent tax on retail groceries is set to expire soon and that it would be a significant loss to the city. Following this, the council passed an ordinance to continue the tax, which will coincide with the state’s expiration.

An audience member questioned the plans for the former Lord Chevrolet property, most of which had been demolished. Dyer explained that the original bid of $44,000 included the remaining structure, and because it was not taken town, the end cost would be considerably less.

“Once the area is ready, it will be surveyed and appraised,” said Dyer. “The purchase price must be no less than 80% of the appraised value.”

All Operations Manager Greg Thompson had no updates for the council.

Police Chief Kraig Townsend introduced Galva’s new officer, Luke Queen. Queen is currently serving part-time, and once his additional coursework is completed in mid-March, he will be fully certified. Townsend said the Galesburg native will be “a great asset to Galva and the force is now at full capacity.”

“I’m very happy to be a part of Galva’s police force and look forward to working with Chief Townsend and the other officers,” Queen said.

Townsend noted that some items from the taser grant he had obtained had arrived at the department, “the rest of the equipment should be here soon.” He also told the council that he and his officers have noticed that ordinance violations are beginning to appear, and they are going to address them sooner than originally planned.

Dyer reported for Street Superintendent Richard Plummer saying that spring and fall cleanups are planned, with dates to be announced later. Brush pickup is still being done by the city, and large items will be collected by Eagle Enterprises on the first Wednesday of the month.

“The items must have a city sticker, which can be purchased at City Hall,” said City Clerk Debbie VanWassenhove. The pickup must be scheduled with Eagle Enterprises by calling the business or City Hall.

Alderman Jim Hartman asked that the potholes on North Center Avenue be addressed.

The council members, Mayor Rich Volkert and Dyer each thanked Caravello for his service to Galva, with Jeff Olson adding special thanks to his family, who were in attendance.

“Every time the phone rang in the middle of the night, with a request from a sick customer needing medication, his wife Barb, was awakened, too. His family was always behind him, ensuring his success,” said Olson.

Volkert also noted that Melissa Halsall’s Freedom Fest Committee had started fundraising and thanked her and the members of Galva’s “Ready to Grow” for their involvement. “It is appreciated by all of us,” he said.

The next council meeting is scheduled for Monday, March 3 at 6 p.m. at City Hall located at 311 NW 4th Avenue.