The Carmi City Council met for the first time in May on Tuesday evening, and with only one item on the agenda, wrapped up proceedings in 15 minutes.
The Council unanimously approved Ordinance 1502 which adds vehicles classified at over one ton to a list of vehicles including semis, tractors, and trailers that are prohibited from parking on city streets for more than three hours. Police Chief Jason Carter explained to the Council that the addition of these vehicles is meant to reduce the number of accidents at the intersection of Oak and Sixth Streets. The amendments to existing ordinances also increase the fine from $25-$100 dollars to $75-$750.
Mayor Pollard told those assembled that he and Sandra had met with Whitney Barbre from Tumble Time Cheer & Fitness on April 25th, and that a consensus had been reached about the requirements for construction of a new facility in the Industrial Park. Barbre said she would assemble the required paperwork and submit a new business plan and the issue will appear on the agenda at a future City Council meeting.
Pollard also reminded residents to continue to clean up and maintain properties in the city, and announced that the playground equipment at Eckerle Park was in the process of being installed. Pollard also reminded residents that the Carmi Recreational Summer League will be having Opening Day ceremonies at Bradshaw Park on Saturday.
City Clerk Brian Allen reminded residents that solicitation licenses are required for door to door sales, and following two incidents earlier in the week, that suspicious activity should be reported to the Carmi Police Department. Licenses are available from the City office, and include a background check. Licenses are $10 a week or $50 a year.
Alderman Knight informed the Council that the construction of the new concession stand at Bradshaw Park has been completed. 41 businesses and individuals contributed to the new building. Knight also commended a camper at Burrell’s Woods who alerted Carmi Police about an attempted burglary last month, and reported that the GIFT Garden project was coming along.
Alderman Headlee reported she had received several complaints about traffic on Lexington, but that they had largely been resolved with new speed limit signs and increased police patrol.
City Supervisor Mike Buckman informed the Council that after speaking with railroad engineers, the issues with the Stewart Street railway crossing were the responsibility of the City, and after the Burrell Street project is complete, the City will be replacing existing concrete with asphalt.
Alderman Davis reminded residents that the Water Department can no longer do adjustments and Alderman Yearby told the Council that an effort was underway to donate generators to the EMA in memory of Jerry Applewhite.
With no closed session the meeting adjourned at 5:45. The next meeting of the City Council is set for May 17 at 5:30pm.
