Council handles light agenda at special called meeting

Alan Morris was recognized during last week's meeting of the Piggott Parks and Recreation Commission for his service as chairman during 2009. Commission chairman for 2010, Brett McMillon ((left) is shown presenting Morris with a plaque in recognition of his service to the city and the commission. (photo provided) [Click to enlarge]

The annual joint meeting of the Piggott City Council and Parks and Recreation Commission was held Monday, Dec. 14, at the Piggott Community Center. The meeting is held each year to allow the commission to present its annual budget to the council, which is done as a courtesy to the mayor and aldermen.

"The council was very complimentary of the efforts of the Parks and Recreation Commission," noted Mayor Gerald Morris. "They have a very limited budget and we are very pleased with how they use the money they do get each year."

During the meeting outgoing commission chair Alan Morris was honored with a plaque in recognition. The presentation was made by the commission chairman for 2010, Brett McMillon.

During the brief business meeting the council also took care of a few items that required their attention.

The resolution to approve a new franchise agreement to provide cable TV to the city with NewWave Communications was approved. The resolution extends the company's local franchise for an additional 10 years.

Council members also voted to waive competitive bidding on contracting expansion and improvement work to the city's electric substation. On the advice of the city's engineering firm, it was decided to remain with the company that built and installed the substation. "The engineers were concerned that problems could arise down the road should be mix components from more than one company," Morris noted. "This way we're sure that everything will be compatible, and that should help us to remain problem free for many years to come."

The upgrades at the substation were discussed after SWPA told city officials it would be removing an aged transformer from the location in the near future. The changes will allow for much more flexibility in operating the substation and will aid the Piggott electric department in the event of future outages.

The aldermen also re-visited the issue of selling a city-owned truck for salvage. Morris indicated that, since the vehicle was no longer usable, the council could accept any bid. He said a bid of $600 had been received on the vehicle and it is being sold for parts.

The council will not hold a regular meeting on the fourth Monday, but will meet to take care of any pressing items should any issues require their attention. The next regular meeting is at 6 p.m. Monday, Jan. 25.