We now have some answers on just what caused the special meeting and resulting termination of a Grayville Police Officer last Wednesday. WROY/WRUL News received information related to the FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) request submitted following Monday night’s regularly scheduled council gathering. While not overly specific, we’ve learned Officer Valiant was terminated on the grounds of multiple infractions described as disobedience of a legal directive or order issued by a high ranking department member, two instances of neglect of duty described as leaving the Grayville city limits for an extended period of time while on duty. He received a written reprimand for that violation in September and was given verbal counseling for it again in November. Also in September, Valiant was found utilizing unsafe or improper driving habits in the course of employment or appointment.
Grayville Days is on the calendar for August 29th, 30th, and 31st this year. Representatives from the festival committee were on hand Monday night to make a formal request from the city to help pay for the celebration. Last year, the city kicked in $25,000. Taylor Goldman from the committee says they’re expecting expenses to raise this year and are therefore requesting $30k from the city. She says they’re planning to increase activities this year as well as fundraising efforts. City officials said they’d take the request under advisement and try to have an answer in a couple weeks. This year’s Grayville Days theme: “Party like it’s 1995”.
Sewer pumps were also on the agenda Monday night and another failure has forced the council to do some unbudgeted spending. A new bypass will replace one that’s currently being rented at a cost of $59,500. A new replacement pump at the main lift station will cost $63,969. Council agreed to make those purchases. The money to pay those expenses will come from TIF I and II. Commissioners also approved pay order #4 on the Phase 2 water main replacement project. It totals $30,668.46.
Council continued discussion on establishing utility deposits going so far as a first reading on Ordinance 967 drafted by city attorney Jay Walden. The ordinance, passed as is, would establish deposits for new customers only at $100 for gas and water and $50 for sewer. Commissioners will still have ample opportunity to make changes if deemed necessary before adopting the new rule.
Following a 23 minute executive session Monday, council agreed to give Mayor Travis Thompson and City Administrator Robert Hatcher permission to negotiate the sale of property 133 Industrial Park.
City financials show Grayville with nearly $3.5 million in assets, more than $2 million of that is sidelined in restricted funds and $1.3 million tied up in investments. Treasurer Sharon Walden recommended transferring $100,000 from the e-pay to the city of Grayville account. Council unanimously approved that action.
Grayville leaders adjourned at 7:50pm and will next gather in regular session at 7pm on February 24th.
