GIBSON CITY — Some routine matters were approved, but others were questioned during this week's city council meeting.

Alderman John Carlson questioned a bill for removal of four trees at $500 each. He said a previous bid offered the service at $300 per tree. Carlson believes the council agreed to group tree removals and seek bids to get the most for taxpayers' money.

Superintendent Randy Stauffer said he thinks the trees should be taken out as needed and not bid out individually. He said bidding small amounts will cause delays and add legal-advertising expenses.

Other council members did not support Carlson's objection.

In other business, final approval of an actual contract with Noble Americas Energy of San Diego was tabled until the council's Dec. 12 meeting.

The contract offers to provide electricity at 5.35 cents per kilowatt hour beginning January 2012 but does not specify a price for use over the city's estimate.

Attorney Marc Miller of Champaign could not find an answer in the contract and suggested the sales broker attend the council's next meeting to provide answers.

Miller agreed the lack of information posed a "significant risk" that should be investigated.

A resolution was approved to authorize the use of motor fuel tax money to pay for $26,000 in previously approved engineering costs related to future curb and gutter work on Melvin Street between 9th Street and 12th Street.