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Mayor, councilmen start new terms

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By Melinda L. Lucas

After serving as mayor pro tem since the first of year, Susan Montgomery, who was the only one to file for the position back in February, took an oath of office last Thursday and presided over her first official meeting on Monday, May 11.

Montgomery, who had been elected as mayor pro tem last year, moved from council member to leading the city, after the unexpected death of mayor Rodney Alexander in January.

Three other council members also started two-year terms at Monday’s meeting, including newcomer Ragan Riley, who took Montgomery’s spot, along with incumbents Lester Galbreath and James Waters.

Since there was no opposition, the election was cancelled, and the new terms started in May.

Swimming Pool

City manager Billy Holson stated that there will be no plans made to open the swimming pool at Webb Park until Gov. Greg Abbott includes those types of facilities in his reopening plan. 

“It’s going to be a problem to get lifeguards hired and certified once we do get to that point, because those students may have already found summer jobs,” said Holson. “We’ve had lots of phone calls, but we’re really just going to have to wait and see what happens.”

Rescue Grants

Montgomery reported on the actions of a city-appointed committee that met on May 7 to review applications for the city’s Small Business Rescue Grant program.

A total of 21 local businesses applied for the grants, which are intended to provide assistance during the COVID-19 closures and restrictions.

The Economic Development Committee is awarding a total of $50,000 in grant money from the city’s A board sales taxes revenue in an attempt to bolster the local economy and businesses that have been affected.

Businesses had to submit a grant application by May 11 to be considered. The grants ranged from $500 to $5,000 for each business.

“We want to do all we can to help our local businesses that have been impacted economically over the last two months,” Montgomery said. “This was not just for businesses that had to close entirely, but also those that were deemed essential but have also suffered loss.”

Applicants were required to provide revenue numbers from this year compared to one year ago, as well as list outstanding payments for March and April to determine the amount of grant money awarded.

“We hope that business owners will keep in mind that this is a gift, a little extra cash in their hands,” said the mayor. “We wish there were more to give, because we know how difficult it is right now.”

Other Business

•Holson reported that the city’s finances are in fairly good shape, even though a significant downturn in sales tax receipts is expected.

•Holson is going to check on the possibility of bringing in a container for the one-time pickup of hazardous water such as paint.