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Walker Board of Aldermen discuss sewer rates and consider equipment purchases
Mayor Harold Walter presided over the Walker Board of Aldermen meeting held on Monday evening, July 31. One of the key points of discussion was a bill for the doors, raised by Alderman Mike Newman. City Clerk Susan Thompson clarified that the bill was for the doors leading to City Hall and the outside restroom from City Hall. Following the explanation, the board unanimously approved the payment of the bills.
Another significant item on the agenda was the roof repairs for City Hall and the Community Building. After reviewing all the received bids, the board decided to table the matter until they apply for a grant from MFA and determine the financial support they would receive towards the repairs.
The meeting then turned to Financial Advisor/Interim John Benson of D.A. Davidson, who presented his recommendations. He urged the board to seriously consider raising sewer rates significantly for city residents to be eligible for a loan from any bank. He acknowledged that this decision would be tough, considering the cost of living challenges faced by many residents. However, Benson also mentioned the possibility of applying for grants to mitigate the financial burden.
After much deliberation, the board thanked Benson for his insights and decided to proceed by applying for as many grants as possible first. Once they secure the grant funds, they would revisit their discussions with Benson and proceed accordingly.
In the latter part of the meeting, City Clerk Susan Thompson updated the board on various matters. Representative Neal Brady of Bartlett and West couldn’t attend the meeting to discuss five engineer services for wastewater treatment. The board approved the idea of applying for grants before making any decisions in this regard.
The board also considered equipment-related concerns raised by Maintenance Worker Russell Hayes. He pointed out that the current equipment, including the tractor, backhoe, blade, and brush hog, is inconvenient and unable to perform necessary tasks effectively. Hayes proposed acquiring a skid steer and mower, which the council approved him to look for. If found, they would call a special meeting to decide on the purchase.
The board also approved having a scheduled tax rate public hearing for the 2023 property tax rates 15 minutes before next month’s regular meeting.
The floor was then opened for city residents and board members to voice their concerns. One resident expressed worries about an alleyway filled with tree limbs due to recent storms. Mayor Walter clarified that it is the responsibility of the lot owner adjacent to the alleyway to maintain it.
Another citizen, Pastor Ray Scism of the Baptist Church, addressed a long-standing issue regarding the ownership of a sidewalk leading to the church. The board agreed to hold a closed session meeting immediately after the current one to discuss the matter in detail.
Other concerns from citizens were also acknowledged, including violations of ordinances and property maintenance issues. The board agreed to send letters to relevant parties to address these concerns.
The meeting concluded with approval to adjourn, with the next month’s meeting scheduled for Aug. 14.