Hull holds off on deeding of land

“There are so many factors that must be considered in this decision,” said city attorney Pat Graham. “And I assure you, we’re not going to do anything but go by the book in this situation.”

Councilwoman Becky Elkins asked what the council could do in regards to the deeding process.

“What exactly must be done in this process, and what options do we have as a council?” asked Elkins.

Graham revealed what he had discovered in researching the matter.

“I’ve been in contact with the bank and all other parties that are tied into this property, and have various options that the city can choose from,” he said, “one of which includes potentially selling the land to the highest bidder, whether that’s ultimately the fire department or not.”

Elkins asked Graham for suggestions on what he believed should be done.

“What would you suggest that we do?” she asked.

Graham refrained from offering an opinion.

“I suggest that you spend a lot of time seriously thinking about what you as a council want to do,” said Graham. “I’ve presented you with the different options that are available to the city, but am in no position to say what should or shouldn’t be done.”

Mayor Paul Elkins informed the council of what he felt should be done.

“I believe at this point, we as the council need to hold off until we have all our information in line and a clear understanding of what we need to do,” he said. “Overall, we need to do what’s best for the city, and must consider the ways in which this may affect us in the future as well.”

OTHER BUSINESS

In other matters, the mayor and council have yet to find a candidate to successfully fill the vacant council position previously held by Brandon Fortson. The House Bill 277 and DOT plan for financing is said to include a one-percent additional sales tax over a period of 10 years, and is projected to bring in around $73 million for road maintenance and building projects to the Northeast Georgia area. Also, in a unanimous decision, the Hull council decided to donate $100 towards Madison County’s Bicentennial event Sept. 24 as the sponsor of the bucket brigade races.