By Tim SchmidtRecord Managing EditorPassage of a $15.5 million sewer bond issue, implementing free recycling and adoption of a five-year strategic plan are just some of the accomplishments during 2014.In reviewing what was completed a year ago, Warrenton city officials said they are proud of the number of projects that were completed. The list was presented by Terri Thorn, director of operations/finance officer, at last Tuesday’s board of aldermen meeting.What was described as “probably the most significant” was getting voter approval for $15.5 million revenue bonds for improvements to the city’s wastewater treatment and collection system. As a result of the successful April ballot measure, the city obtained an “A+” bond rating and issued approximately $9.9 million in bonds as part of the project’s first phase.City officials also spent a considerable amount of time finalizing and adopting a five-year strategic plan. Thorn commented that some planning has been started years ago, but this was the first time a formal document had been completed during her time with the city.“That was a big step,” she said.During the past year, significant changes were made related to how the city handles its athletic programs. The city dissolved its recreation department and contracted with Gametime Tournaments to manage the youth and adult athletic leagues. The city also contracted with the company to operate its concession stand at the athletic complex.City officials said the move resulted in improved customer satisfaction and cost savings.In 2014, Gametime hosted seven baseball/softball tournaments. The strong turnout led to increased sales for businesses and sales tax revenue for the city.“It has proven very positive for us,” Thorn said.The city also implemented free recycling service for residents and extended the trash collection contract with Wilson Waste Systems for five years at the current rates.Some of the other accomplishments listed in the report were:• finalizing a favorable settlement on a CenturyLink telecommunications class-action lawsuit resulting in approximately $104,000 to the city and the ability to collect payments in the future.• purchasing two pieces of property, one located adjacent to the wastewater treatment plant and the other east of the downtown city pavilion to be used initially for record storage and allowing for future expansion.• implementing a performance review process for all employees.• holding a first citywide cleanup event.• selling the last remaining Neighborhood Stabilization Program home and obtaining approval to use the funds for the Hickory Lick Road improvements.• implementing a neighborhood watch program.• instituting use of auto-dialing system for utility billing courtesy calls improving customer service and efficiency.• reducing overall citywide crime index down to 9.3 percent.• implementing a smoke testing program and repairing 47 manholes resulting in significant reduction of inflow and infiltration into the sewer system.City of Warrenton