City to seek grant for new playground

The Hazlehurst Board of Aldermen approved a lease agreement with the city school district and authorized the application for a parks grant to build a new playground.

The agreement is contingent on the school district’s approval as well as receipt of the grant funds.

The new playground, if built, would be located on land owned by the district but would be open to the public after school hours. The city will lease the property for $1 per year, explained Alderman Shirley Sandifer, provided that the city can get the grant to build a recreational park.

In other business the board authorized the cleanup of property owned by Vintarious Lipscomb with the cleanup cost to be assessed to the property’s tax bill.

A drainage problem on South Massengill Street was discussed and taken under advisement. A ditch has been blocked since Katrina filled it with debris. The attorney pointed out that the state of emergency has long since expired that allowed the city to cleanup storm debris on private property. The water department was authorized to correct what needs to be corrected in the area on city property.

Alderman Frank Jones asked the mayor to write to MDOT requesting improved lighting along Highway 28, with Alderman Frank Pickering voting no.

The new water ordinance was amended to include a bulk water rate.

Resignations were accepted from two dispatchers.

Joseph French and Jeremy Thornton resigned from the police department.

Darian Murray was promoted to Assistant Chief. Chris Granger was promoted to Lieutenant Investigator. Arthur Harris was promoted to Sergeant Investigator on a 4-1 vote with Sandifer voting no.

Marcus O’Quinn and Tracy Smith were hired as patrol officers.

The board approved on a 4-1 vote the extension of the curfew hours to 7 p.m. on weeknights and 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Alderman Sandifer voted no.

Latrice Killingsworth was hired in the water department temporarily.

The board gave the go ahead for a test well before adjourning for December. The mayor reminded everyone to shop locally for Christmas.