By JACKIE TAYLOR | July 12, 2023

City Administrator Becky Hegwald addressed the council, following the public forum on streets (see story in this edition), concerning landlord licensing and said that since former City Administrator Teresa Whitaker was no longer in town, the city needs someone trained to inspect rental homes that can look at electrical, plumbing, etc. 

Hegwald was hesitant to sign off on adequate housing when she is not trained in what to look for. City Attorney Burton Harding said that falls under the purview of Codes Officer, but new Codes Officer Candy Houtman is not trained in that area either.

Houtman said she is willing to take classes, but the city left the topic discussing possibly hiring a company to do the periodic inspections until they can train an employee.

Police Chief Tristan Snyder reported several arrests, 21 drug cases, and handling 900 more calls this year than last at this same time.

He discussed with the council adding a handheld radio that acts as its own repeater in the car; the council held off on that decision when County IT Director Chris Martin said the county was replacing radios with other models the Sheriff’s Office and Fire Department are going to use.

Council member Melanie Staton asked why no fireworks allowed on city streets was implemented. She said that is one of the reasons people enjoy living in a rural community. She suggested the council “pick their battles” on issues.

The city’s budget hearing is scheduled for Monday, Aug. 7 at 6 p.m.