Comer discusses fire department before approving budget figures

“Our contribution to them will not be touched while I am on the council,” she said.

Her statement came in response to a comment by councilman Howard Threlkeld as he discussed ways to keep the city budget from increasing in 2009.

Threlkeld said that if any areas of the budget needed to be increased, they would need to cut other areas to make up the difference. He noted that the city donates $45,000 a year to the fire department, which is double the contributions of other cities in Madison County.

“That is why,” Bridges responded, “we have the best fire department in the county.”

The budget finally approved by the council is just under $610,000, which is approximately $3,000 less than the 2008 budget.

Among projects being considered for the county is repair or replacement of several fire hydrants and new ways to monitor the city’s three wells. City clerk Steve Sorrells said that it would be good to know more about the capacity of the three wells that serve the city. He said that the current wells are meeting the city’s needs but a fourth well that can produce 50 gpm or greater would be good insurance.

Beth McGraw, representing a new Royal Oaks Home Owners Association introduced herself to the council and reported on the progress of the organization. The current 25 members have held two meetings and are looking at by-laws. No formal organization or elected leadership has yet been chosen. Among the concerns McGraw discussed were debris pickup and recycling. She said that the goal of the group is to create a pleasant and attractive community.

Council approved a beer and wine license for Ku’s Food Lane in Comer.

Newly elected councilwoman Melissa Yarbrough joined the council for her first meeting.