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GoogleHR 2454, or the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009, is currently being considered in the Senate after being approved earlier this year in the House. If passed, the measure would seek to reward the use of clean fuels through credits and in turn raise the rates of those using coal for energy production. "We could see our rates climb drastically," mayor Gerald Morris noted. "It would basically open us up to trying to compete with the rates paid by such states as California in a market system."
Morris added that the legislation would benefit such states as California, which relies heavily on nuclear power, along with Florida and New York. "We need to let our lawmakers know that this is not in our best interest," he added. "We need to let Blanche Lincoln and Mark Pryor know that we don't want this to pass in this form."
David Finley, who attended a meeting on the subject recently, noted some models estimate that electric rates could climb from 10-15 percent in some areas to as high as 80 percent in others. Meanwhile, states such as California may see a credit of up to 150 percent based on their use of cleaner fuels. "It's going to really hurt those using coal, and push everyone toward the use of more natural gas and nuclear if it passes," he surmised.
Council members also heard from Roger Wegel on a disagreement that arose concerning right-of-way to a parcel he owns near the new Magnolia Manor assisted living facility. According to the minutes of earlier meetings, Wegel had agreed to a specific location for accessing his property but that has since been disputed. Despite a lengthy discussion on the topic, the matter remained unresolved.
The aldermen also approved two resolutions that will allow the Piggott Fire Department to seek two grants, which combined will amount to around $45,000. If the grants are approved the funds will be used to pay for half the purchase price of a new fire truck for the department.
The council also heard from city attorney John Lingle on a letter received from the Stewart family concerning the use of their property north of Heritage Park. The parcel has been used in the past as parking for the annual Piggott Heritage Park Car Show and Cruise and recently the family requested that the city enter into a hold harmless agreement concerning the arrangement. Lingle noted the car show is actually under the control of the Piggott Area Chamber of Commerce and added that in his opinion the city could not legally enter into the agreement.
He encouraged the chamber to look into the matter, noting the organization would need to either enter into the agreement or acquire insurance to cover any injuries or damage that might occur on the property.
In other business the council:
* Passed the official resolution that continues the city's annual five-mil tax.
* Discussed a problem with bikes and skateboards on downtown sidewalks, and instructed Lingle to look into adjusting the city's ordinances to address the issue.
* Approved the city attorney bill.
* Discussed making changes in the way credit applications are processed for the utility departments, providing criteria for extending credit and setting up stipulations for asking for additional deposit in some cases.
* Allowed Morris to work with Police Chief Bill Alstadt in using the K-9 officer stipend to raise the pay for members of his department. Alstadt noted that no more funding would be requested, and that the adjustments could be accomplished by changing the way the K-9 officer is reimbursed for time caring for his dog.
* Were informed that the water department project on North Monroe is complete and the next big project will be replacement of the main water line that runs north and south between West Cherry and West Orr. Work is expected to begin on the north end of the line, which runs along the alley between Second and Third Avenues.