Yesterday's Council Meeting

A couple of big developments occurred at yesterday's Council meeting. First, we approved a switch to Mobile County EMS as our primary ambulance dispatch. This will ensure that our citizens have even quicker response times, and it will also give citizens the chance to talk with certified dispatchers who can provide guidance as to how to handle a situation even before the ambulance gets there. Also, we approved a resolution to apply for ATRIP funds to build a landscaped median and turning lanes on Lee Street. If we obtain this funding, we will be able to improve both the safety and beauty of a critical entrance to our city.

Council Meeting

We approved the month's accounts payable in the amount of $51,003.68. On my motion, we declared properties on Ninth and Fourth Avenues public nuisances. We set a property on Second Street for a hearing next month. I moved to accept a hard-won grant for a new senior bus. We will have to cover a 20% match of about $10,000. All in all, a good meeting.

Council Meeting

We had a productive Council meeting this evening. On my motion, we approved the sale of surplus equipment. We approved the hiring of inmate labor to help this summer. The Council reappointed a School Board member. We also authorized the repair of 4 small bridges that are part of our disc golf course. During my finance report, the Council approved ceasing contributions to our sick leave fund until Jan. 1, given that we have $90k available in the fund. Finally, we approved the production of a short video to use to promote the city.

WKRG

Council and Utilities Board Meetings

I started off the evening at our Utilities Board meeting. On my motion, we approved donating a year of sewer service to Chickasaw Schools, among other more routine items. At the Council meeting, I successfully moved to adopt a resolution in opposition to SB 217, which, if passed by the legislature, would strip cities of their ability to charge a per unit license fee for each rental house. I also secured the adoption of an amendment to our careless driving ordinance, reducing the fine to a flat amount of $100. This will keep those who receive tickets under the ordinance from having to appear in court if they want to simply plead guilty. On my motion, the Council approved covering a year's worth of garbage service for Chickasaw Schools as well. Finally, we introduced for a first reading an ordinance requiring motorists to pass bicycles only when they can do so with space of at least 3 feet between the car and the bike. This will go a long way to making our streets safer for bicycle enthusiasts.

2/23/13 WKRG Interview

Protecting Chickasaw Residents: Priority One

Vote "Yes" Tomorrow

Tomorrow, you have the chance to come out to JC Davis Auditorium to vote "yes" for needed additional revenue for YOUR city school system. You can help continue the progress of our city; you can rebuild your property values and secure the future of your city. The choice is clear. $5 per month in property taxes is a small price to pay for a superior city school that will increase property values, decrease crime and bring our community together like never before. Don't believe the naysayers who always find a reason to tell us we can't accomplish our goals. We can and must do better than that. Join me in voting "yes" tomorrow. You will be glad you did.