Vardaman board of aldermen voted at their regular meeting last night to abandon park facilities on school property.
The decision will be subject to a 30 day review. The board is seeking written comments on the issue prior to the next board meeting on July 7. Comments should be turned in to City Hall.
James Casey
Mayor James Casey said the property is owned by the school, but has always been used as a town park.
The walking track has deteriorated and the bathrooms and picnic tables are constantly vandalized, he said.
Street and maintenance director supervisor Brent Harrell said recent heavy rains have washed out a bridge at the park, which will be expensive to repair. Mayor Casey said the property will become private school property which will be off limits to the public, without permission from the school. He said the town’s resources will be better spent on city-owned property such as the Sportsplex or Veteran’s Park.
Alderman Jeff Hamilton said “I think we need a park. I’m not sure we need that park. We don’t need one that’s overrun that we can’t control.”
Police Chief Kenny Scott asked the board to put him on the town’s cell phone plan, using his own phone. The board agreed.
Aldermen also agreed to pay for four new firemen to go to EMR training. Cost is $180 each.