By CHELSEA BURNETTE
CORDELE — During Tuesday’s City Commission meeting here, Barbara Clark, a childcare provider at 505 E. 5th Ave., asked city officials to repair her fence.
During a rainstorm a few months ago, she said, a tree fell from city property and damaged her fence. City personnel cleaned up the tree. she added, but her fence was left demolished.
When she reported the damages, she said she was told to get an estimate. A company out of Albany gave her a price of $675. She said she has spoken with several city officials since then, but her fence still is not repaired.
“I keep six children,” Clark said, “and it jeopardizes their safety without a fence.”
City governors told Clark that they would discuss the issue with their attorney, Tommy Cotton and get back with her.
In old business, Interim Public Works Director Steve Fulford said the cold, rainy weather is keeping the city from painting new lines in the middle of the road.
In new business, City Commissioner Curtis Lucas said he has received several complaints of racing up and down streets which is dangerous for children.
Chairman Zack Wade said additional police surveillance should help. Another deterrent, he said, would be to put up more speed signs.
In other business, city officials:
• Approved a street closure for 313 W. 18th Ave. on March 20.
• Discussed budget cuts for SAM Shortline for the year 2012. Alternative means for keeping it up and running were discussed. The train excursion will not shut down but may provide fewer rides.
• Went over the overtime report. City Manager Jean Burnette discussed the analysis and percentage of overtime report by each department. Currently 141 of a total 158 positions are filled which means that 17 city positions are vacant, Burnette explained.
• Approved a contract to collect delinquent property taxes and/or property sales.
