Hope City Board

By Mark Keith, 04/20/22 12:33 AM

The Hope City Board met Tuesday April 19th for their regular meeting.  Following the Pledge and approval of minutes the board moved into the agenda items.

First up Police Chief J.R.Wilson asked the board if the police department could apply for a $28,043 “Step” grant.  If it is granted, the city will use it for DWI enforcement, safety belt enforcement, speed enforcement, text/cellular enforcement, and child safety seats.  The city would be responsible for an in-kind match of $13, 265.  The board approved the grant application.

The board heard from City Financial Officer Cindy Clark on the use of remaining ARPA funds through the American Rescue Plan funded by the federal government.  City staff recommended the remaining funds of $433,734 be used for police and fire salaries and the employer contribution expenses.  The board passed a resolution approving this and also approving spending $61,400 to lost revenue/revenue replacement.

The board considered an application for rezoning some property at 222 North Hervey from C-4 Office Commercial to C-2 Highway Commercial.  Robert Barwick, the owner, wishes to construct a new storage facility on the rear portion of the property.  The Planning and Zoning Commission has approved the request.  The board approved an ordinance approving the zoning change.

Under the City Manager’s Report, Catherine Cook reminded everyone of the city-wide clean-up Saturday April 23rd.  Mayor Still suggested anyone who would like to help can meet at the HUB at 7am to help.  City residents can use the landfill for free on that day.

The city has a request from Mac Hamilton to bid on a concrete/steel stage section located in Fair Park.  City Attorney Randy Wright said the city needs to declare it surplus before bids can be taken.  The city manager said they will begin the process.

Mark Ross asked for gloves for the volunteer clean-up crews.  Board member Trevor Coffee lauded the park staff for getting the baseball fields in good shape.

Under Citizens Requests, Hazel Simpson asked that the Northside Park gates be closed at night.  Chief J. R. Wilson said they try to close them nightly at 11pm and open them around 5:30pm.  The meeting then adjourned.