Civic Corner: Board of Aldermen Recap, May 2

By Ricki Garrett, PhD, Alderwoman at Large

The Board of Aldermen meeting on April 18 began with members of the Boy Scout Troop from Clinton United Methodist Church leading the pledge to the flag. The members of the troop introduced themselves, and their Scout Leader shared information about the troop. This was followed by a presentation of a $15,000 check to the Clinton Fire Department from the Junior Civic League of Clinton from proceeds of their February Hearts of Gold Gala. The department will use the funds for the purchase of Jaws of Life.

The next presentation was by the Clinton Soccer Association for a check of over $300,000 to pay for the Mini Split Project for Traceway Park, which will be a tremendous asset to the soccer program in our city. We are deeply appreciative of the many organizations in Clinton that regularly make contributions to improve the overall safety and enjoyment of our citizens.
Our department head report was given by Chandra Broomfield, director of therapeutic recreation. Chandra discussed the many interesting and fun programs offered by the Wood Center for senior citizens, including trips and other special events. She also discussed the Challenger League sports program for those with special needs. She said this year, the Therapeutic Recreation Department was on track to surpass the previous participation records, including those prior to the COVID pandemic.

The Board set the date of Tuesday, June 6, for a special election to be held at Traceway Park to renew the 1% tourism tax. This tax must be re-approved by the voters every four years, as designated by the Legislature, and is used to fund infrastructure needs at our parks. The Board voted to approve the date of the election. These funds will continue to provide much-needed infrastructure improvement to our recreational facilities.

The Board also approved the acceptance of a grant award from the NRA Foundation in the amount of $1,545.90 to be used for the Clinton Police Department’s drone program. Chief Ford Hayman indicated that the drone program is continuing to enhance the work of the department. The Board also approved a service agreement from Taylor Power System for maintenance on generators located at each department.

Clinton’s Quisenberry Library will be the beneficiary of the Board’s approval to make $26,534 in lighting repairs to the children’s room. The Board also approved acceptance and award to the lowest and best bidder, Mims, Inc., in the amount of $108,150 for the Broadway Street/Springridge Road sewer repair.

Finally, the Board approved the hiring of much-needed employees for the Public Works Department.

In its work session on Monday night, the Mayor and Board of Aldermen went through the final part of the proposed personnel policies and, once our attorney, Will Purdie, presents us with a red-lined version to examine, the Board can determine if it is ready to be placed on the agenda at the next meeting.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Space will be provided in each issue of The Clinton Courier to the Board of Aldermen for a recap of each meeting. Aldermen are asked to volunteer to provide this recap for the Courier.