The Holyrood City Council voted Sept. 7 to follow other towns and establish a free land program for new housing. The vote was unanimous; however, by consensus officials tacked on incentives, including the waiver of a connection fee for utility services in Holyrood and a one-time $500 utility credit for any student or students enrolled in Central Plains Elementary School at Holyrood.

In other action, the council approved Sunday sales for alcoholic liquor and cereal malt beverages in the original package within the city.

The council meeting followed a hearing on the Revenue Neutral Rate, which by a new law is necessary when a government body plans to increase its budget from the previous year. A budget hearing also was conducted with no comments from the public. It later was approved by the council at the regular meeting.

In other action:

• Bruce Siemsen discussed city cleanup with the council. Council members told him Chief Fred Smith is meeting with residents and issuing citations as necessary. He has not yet made it to all the places he intends to go.

• The council voted 4-1 to allow the Holyrood Fire Department to use the old City Hall as a haunted house. Firefighters are to stabilize temporary walls appropriately and not cause structural damage to the building.