The Elsmere City Council approved ordinances amending the city’s loan program and code of ethics for officials at their Sept. 9 meeting.
The council unanimously approved the second reading of an ordinance that increases the borrowing cap for Elsmere residents participating in the citywide loan program. Individuals can now borrow up to $15,000 for necessary repairs, to be repaid in monthly installments within six years with interest not exceeding 3%.
The ordinance was first read at the council’s Aug. 12 meeting, where the council also discussed a long-sought update to the code of ethics regarding meeting attendance. The amendment mandates that all elected officials not miss more than one-third of caucus, council and special meetings.
Officials who fail to comply may provide written documentation to justify their absence and can face removal from duty.
The council also replaced a 1998 chapter in the code of enforcement regarding alcohol licensing. The new chapter creates the Office of Beverage Control, to be led by the city clerk. Businesses are restricted from selling alcoholic beverages between 2:30 and 6 a.m. on weekdays, and between 2:30 and 10 a.m. on Sunday.