Brown Water In Anderson Discussed
Residents of Bluff Street approached the Anderson City Council about a damaged water line, the subsequent sewage smell, and future repairs. They said that their current water is a “rusty” color and has a foul odor. As a result, residents have been forced to purchase water at the store.
During the July 19 meeting, the residents asked when it would be repaired.
“We are working on getting a permit from DNR,” said Mayor John Sellers. “We’re not allowed an emergency permit.”
“Well let them come down and try to drink this water,” one resident exclaimed.
Sellers said he hopes to have the line repaired by fall.
John and Vicky Davis addressed the council seeking a permit to raise livestock within city limits. Davis noted that he previously understood that the property was not in the city limits.
He said that the family has lived there for eight years and raised horses, pigs, and cows previously without complaint. The family currently has a dozen sows and one hog on four acres.
Police Chief Daniel Gardner noted that the neighbors brought the livestock to the city’s attention, saying that the operation had outgrown what was previously agreed upon between the two parties.
The council voted to distribute letters to the neighbors and make a decision at the next council meeting.
Residents of Park Valley Court approached the council to discuss the state of their road.
“The road is in pathetic condition,” said Calvin Dillow. “We just want it to be navigable.”
Dillow said he had previously paid city taxes, but was more recently told that the property is not in city limits and therefore is not the city’s responsibility.
After speaking with county officials, Dillow said, the county does not claim responsibility either. He asked what action he needs to take to have the road graded.
The council voted not to take action until further notice.
Board members also discussed a cell tower on the east side of town. The tower site was previously
leased by Alltel Wireless. It is now a subject of interest to the American Tower Alliance.
The council discussed different payment options for the easement, then voted to lease the land for a lump sum of $63,400.
Departmental Reports
Police Chief Daniel Gardner requested new tactical vests for police officers.
“Almost every one needs replaced,” he said.
Gardner is currently reviewing exterior vests, which prove to be less bulky in the office and easier to put on in emergency situations. He asked the council for six vests at a cost of $500 to $600 each.
The council voted to approve the purchase of six new tactical vests.
Gardner also requested a patrol bike, to Alderman Gene Cantrell’s delight.
“I’ve been preaching that for years,” Cantrell said, laughing.
“The public loves it and criminals hate it,” Gardner said. “They can’t hear us, can’t see us.”
Gardner noted that the bike would only be used when there were two officers on duty.
“That way you don’t have to worry about hauling criminals off in a basket,” he joked.
The council voted to purchase a patrol bike.
Gardner also inquired about a gate at the old canning factory that would span the length of the area.
The council voted to purchase gates at a cost of $300 to $400.
Public Works Director Dane Small reported repairing seven leaks and locating 46.
Gene Cantrell asked if the water leak at Indian Creek had been fixed.
Small said that it has not been. He said he considered working a Saturday to do so, but the crew needs a break to recoup from the heat and hard work.
Small noted that survey work is complete for new infrastructure and is to be put in for bids.
He also presented the council with a bid for installing playground equipment. Ozark Mountain Installations quoted $5,725 with a warranty. A barrier and padding material is still needed.
Alderman Cantrell inquired about financial help from the Anderson Betterment Club. Club Director Ken Schutten said they would be willing to pay half.
The council voted to accept the bid from Ozark Mountain Installations.
Small requested permission from the council to take the city vehicle home rather than park it in the shop and use his vehicle to commute. He said that this would help to significantly cut down on response time during emergencies.
The council voted to grant Small permission. In other business: • The council discussed sponsoring the high school band’s trip to New Orleans for a contest. They voted to match the donation of surrounding towns.
• Ashley Boyd, code enforcement officer, was promoted to sergeant for outstanding work. She has been with the department since October and has been employed in law enforcement since 2007.