By Larry Stanford

editorial1@

thomastontimes.com

The City of Yatesville is calling for a Public Hearing on Tuesday, August 3, at 7 p.m., in the Senior Center. The purpose of the meeting is to hear public comment on the city's application for an RDA grant.

At their July 12 meeting, the City Council discussed the application. Mayor Cecil Moncrief said the city has received a similar grant in the past. He said they plan to use this grant, if received, to purchase a newer fire truck.

In other business, the city's new walking track is under construction. Moncrief said the grading has been done and crush-and-run is in place. The contractor should start paving it soon, and the track should be done in a couple of weeks.

Moncrief added that they will need to put up signs prohibiting motorized vehicles, except for wheelchairs, and signs about the city not being liable for any injuries sustained while using. He strongly emphasized that four-wheelers, golf carts, and other motorized vehicles will not be allowed on the track, and that there will be serious consequences for anyone caught on the track with such vehicles.

The city is expecting to be called for another meeting on the upcoming SPLOST with Upson County and Thomaston, said Moncrief. At the first meeting in May, discussion centered around a six-year SPLOST with up to $18 million collected.

Moncrief advised the council that they need to come up with a list of proposed projects for their portion of the SPLOST funds.

Council member Robert Releford suggested continuing to upgrade the water system.

Council member Phyl Gatlin suggested continuing park improvements.

Council member Ronnie Riggins suggested purchasing new turnout gear for the firefighters.

Mayor Moncrief reported that the tax millage rate for the City of Yatesville this year will be 11.57 mills. Last year the rate was 11.93. Riggins made a motion approving a resolution acknowledging the millage rate. Gatlin seconded the motion and it was approved, 5-0.

The new water and garbage rates for city residents took affect July 1, but did not come without some problems. Riggins noted that the garbage rates were correct, but that the water rates were not.

Moncrief stated that the city knew of at least one resident who was greatly undercharged on their water bill. He said there is a problem with water meters being read incorrectly and not being done on time. He said he will be talking with the water reader.

The City Council approved a pay increase for the city's part-time worker. Moncrief noted that the hourly rate has been $8 an hour for several years.

Releford suggested that it be increased to $10 an hour, and the council agree. Releford made a motion to approve the increase. Riggins seconded it, and the motion was approved, 5-0.