Bruce board of aldermen briefly discussed the possibility of raising water rates, but ultimately made no official decision.
Danny Rodgers
“We have folks wanting equipment. We’ve got water leaks. I think we need to add a little to it,” Alderman Danny Rogers said of the water rates.
“I think every other year is often enough,” Alderman Steve Nelson said, referring to the board raising water rates last year. “We’re not going anywhere near broke.”
“The general population didn’t get a raise, only the high end users last time,” Rogers said.
Town Clerk Rita Talford said everybody’s bill went up at least 20 cents last year. Rogers said the increase was minimal for low end users and another slight increase is needed.
“I think you’re hurting the people not raising more revenue to buy needed equipment,” Rogers said.
The board took no action.
The board agreed to consider setting a public hearing for the purpose of condemning the former Western Auto building on the Bruce Square currently owned by town judge Ben Suber.
“I hate to do it, but I’m sick of looking at that building,” Mayor Pope said.
Nelson and Alderwoman Ellen Shaw agreed.
If the town was to condemn the property, the town could then have the building cleaned up/torn down either with town employees or through a contractor and the cost be applied to the property owner’s taxes.
No official action was taken.
In other news, the board approved a low bid of $249,615 from Greenbriar Construction for the installation of a sewerage line connecting the Bruce Community Living Center to the town’s service.
All other bids received ranged from $320,000 to $400,000.
The board passed a resolution to apply for a grant to repair Jimmy Beckley Road.
Mayor Pope said he would get quotes on replacing the fence and was also looking into getting some replacement City of Bruce flags for area flagpoles and prices for a new awning on City Hall.
Mayor Pope said he was also looking for a vehicle lift for the public works department and received permission to advertise for a small track hoe.
The board also approved moving a near $1 million city CD from Renasant Bank to Calhoun Banking Center due to higher rate.
Greg Sockwell was hired as a part-time police officer.