By CHARLOTTE PERKINS
Journal Staff Writer
New appointments to Perry’s boards and authorities are nearly complete. On Tuesday, Councilman William Jackson appointed Jim Geiger to the Board of Adjustment and appeals, and Councilman Riley Hunt appointed David Grossnickel to the Downtown Development Authority.
Mayor Jimmy Faircloth has appointed former Mayor Jim Worrall to the Convention and Visitor’s Bureau Authority, and has one remaining appointment to be made to that group.
The meeting began in accordance with Mayor Faircloth’s policy of inviting citizens to help with the opening ceremonies. The Rev. Billy Kimbrel of Perry United Methodist Church gave the invocation and Korean War POW Army Veteran Harvey Coleman led the pledge of allegiance to the flag.
The Council approved amendments to the FY 2010 operating budget, with anticipated revenues slightly up from an estimated $10,174,300 to $10,730,100, and also approved a procedure allowing the city to begin the process of borrowing up the equivalent of 1.5 mills if that becomes necessary to keep the necessary cash flow while late property taxes are being collected. City Manager Lee Gilmour explained to the council at their recent work session, and the city expects to collect the property taxes, but that some homeowners and businesses have found it financially advantageous to delay paying.
A public hearing was held regarding the rezoning of 5.025 acres from City of Perry R-1, Single Family Residential District to C-2, General Commercial District. There were no objections. This request is being made by First Christian Church at 2100 Macon Road so that they can put up a larger sign for their church. The Planning Commission has recommended that the rezoning be approved.
The Council voted unanimously to remove a high volume rate reduction for residential water users. Currently a lower fee kicks in after a certain level of water consumption. Now the rate will remain the same. As discussed earlier, this will primarily make a difference to apartment complexes. The Council also voted to “repay” the Water/Sewer Construction fund for money used from that fund earlier. This is in accordance with recommendations from a recent audit report.
Mayor Faircloth told the council that Houston County municipalities and the county recently met to and formed a committee to help ensure a full count during the 2010 Census. Mike Beecham represented the city at the meeting. The council agreed to send a letter to all residents encouraging participation because of the use of census numbers in determining allocation of federal funds.
Pyles Plumbing & Utility Contractors not only got the bid for the Sandefur Road sewer force main relocation, at a low bid of $87,987, but the bid was so much lower than others that the city, according to City Manager Gilmour, had it thoroughly reviewed to make sure that all specifications were met. Apparently the company had come up with a less expensive approach to solving the problems, and won praise from Gilmour and the council for helping the city save money.
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