Civic Corner: September 20th Update
Ricki Garrett, Alderwoman at Large
Our Department Head report was given by Marsha Barham, Manager of the Visitors Center. Director Barham reported that the number of visitors to the center is down some. Friday Nights at Mile Post 89 are still occurring. The Visitors Center will also host Book Talk, featuring a new book by former Mayor, Walter Howell. Mayor Phil Fisher also reported that the DAR had celebrated Constitution Week at the Depot, recognizing the 237th anniversary of the signing of the Constitution. In early action, the Board of Aldermen approved the proclamation proclaiming September 17th through September 23rd as Constitution Week in the city.
The Board of Aldermen also approved an interlocal agreement between Hinds County and the City of Clinton regarding improvements to Kids Towne Park. Members of the Hinds County Board of Supervisors, Debra Dickson and Wanda Evers, as well as Legislator, Stephanie Foster, were present to offer their support to the city.
The Board also approved the adoption of a tow truck policy for the City and the Clinton Police Department. Following discussion regarding certain aspects of the policy, the Board voted six to one to approve the policy as presented with me providing the only no vote. The Board of Aldermen also approved a resolution prohibiting the use, purchase, possession, distribution, sale or offering for sale of synthetic cocaine, other synthetic products or kratom.
The Board of Aldermen also approved a resolution to apply to the Mississippi Department of Transportation for funding under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Transportation Alternatives Program 2024. The application would request funding to extend the sidewalk along the south side of College Street. This funding would serve as a backup to Main Street Director, Tara Lytal’s grant proposal for sidewalk funding.
The Board of Aldermen approved a summary change order and final pay request in the amount of $1,155,258.37 to AJ Construction for the 2024 street paving improvements. In addition, the Board approved the use of city funds for improvements to the Northside Drive bridge replacement project.
In its next vote, the Board of Aldermen discussed allowing Street Dough, to locate its food truck at 25 Lakeview Drive temporarily, until the city managed Food Truck Court can be completed. The Board Voted six to one to allow, with Ward 2 Alderman, Jim Martin, voting no. The Board also voted to accept a proposal as the lowest and best bid from Mid-State Construction of Mississippi to provide construction services related to 2% park building projects. A mural, serving as an Eagle Scout project, was also approved. The mural will have a QR code to direct citizens on a scavenger hunt.
Under employment items, the Board approved the hiring of a grounds technician for Parks and recreation and the transition of a part-time summer worker to a full time maintenance worker in the Public Works Department. A meter technician was also hired for the Public Works Department.
The Board then went into executive session to discuss a personnel issue. No action was taken.
