By Megan Miller, Editor
ARGO — Although the Argo City Council met last Monday, there were a number of notable items on Wednesday’s agenda.
First up was a discussion of a grant from FEMA that will allocate funds to build a storm shelter for the city. Mayor Paul Jennings said he’s heard a number of cities won’t be using their funds, which will free up more funding for Argo to potentially apply for.
The point of contingency on this matter was designating a grant writer, which is required. Paying for the grant writer would cost $8,000, and city councilors also estimate that 25 percent of the grant’s funds would have to be paid as a fee once the grant is awarded. The discussion was tabled until the next meeting.
“We have to decide if we want to get a grant writer or just let this one pass us by,” Councilwoman Betty Bradley said.
Councilwoman Ann Brown said she believes it’s a topic that may require a special meeting.
The most important agenda item was pertaining to a paving project surrounding Argo City Hall.
Houston Jenkins with JBWT Engineers attended the work session to present maps to the council people and discuss options for the project, as well as make professional recommendations.
Jenkins has recommended a combination of asphalt and concrete, with the concrete running from the fire bay to the end of the road, and everywhere else being paved with asphalt.
“When fire trucks are hitting their breaks, that’s what’s causing the bumps in the asphalt,” Jenkins said. “I would definitely recommend concrete for that area.”
Although the cost for the concrete section would be higher, it would be a better return on investment because it requires less maintenance.
Jennings said this was a project he and the council anticipated being complete before the November elections, but instead he has appointed a committee comprised of Tony Aldridge, Corky Massey and Ann Brown to serve as a liaison during the decision making process.
“If something needs to be done before the next council takes office they are welcome to bring it to us, but we don’t want to rush anyone to the point that mistakes are made,” Jenkins said. “This is a project with a lot of moving parts.
The final order of business, aside from approving minutes from the August 17, 29 and September 12 meetings, was to remind everyone that the court clerk is out of town until Saturday, and the city clerk will be out of town September 29-30. Both will be out of office on the listed days to attend leadership conferences.
