Town Council 09-05-2023 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Information Technology expenses have been removed from the department budget as those costs are now covered by the CCD fund. There were no questions from the public or the Council. Street Superintendent Dave Moore discussed some changes within his budget to align funding sources. There were no questions from the public or the Council. Chief Buckner discussed the Capital Improvement Plan and the potential purchase of new vehicles for 2024. He also expressed interest in creating an additional dispatch position in the 911 dispatch center. There were no questions from the Public or the Council. Phil Cornelius allocated $94,000 in his budget to the non -reverting fund. The fund initially designated for fireworks was redirected to the special events line item, and computer supply expenses were now accounted for under the IT expenses category. There were no questions from the Public or the Council. Chief Dalton requested a 6% building maintenance increase. The council was advised that the fire administrative building lacks an operable AC unit. Councilman Warthen stated that the company evaluating the town's HVAC units should have a recommendation shortly, which will be assessed at that time. Clerk -Treasurer Dianna Wamsley expressed satisfaction with the budget proposal presented during the workshop and stated that she has no concerns. Council President Warthen commended all the department heads for doing a great job of operating within their means. Ordinance 10-2023, additional appropriation is being introduced to allocate $9,000 from the proceeds of selling a surplus vehicle back into the fire department's budget. There were no public comments. Councilman Brown made the motion to close the public hearing. Councilman Swinney seconded. Motion carried 3-0. Councilman Swimey made a motion to approve Ordinance 10-2023. Councilman Brown seconded. Motion carried 3-0. Council President Warthen addressed the request from the Senior Citizen Center to consider increasing the Town's annual contribution of $10,000. He mentioned that funds are available in CCD, and the specific donation amount can be discussed and determined during the upcoming budget process. Dave Moore requested council direction about several unsafe structures and nuisance properties. These are commercial buildings with one exception that is being used as an R2 or R3. There was some discussion of an ordinance structure for fines. The Town Attorney suggested possibly pursuing an injunction so the businesses cannot operate until the buildings are brought up to code. Town Attorney Lee said he would like to collaborate with Beth Copeland to research the ordinances in place and put together a plan of action on these buildings before the next meeting. Councilman Swinney motioned to allow Attorney Lee to explore a plan to move forward on determining the action plan for the unsafe structures. Councilman Brown seconded. Motion Carried 3-0. Department Head Reports— Chief Dalton stated that he applied for another grant of $1,000 from REMC for equipment. He hopes to have a conditional offer to a potential new hire by the end of the month.