Water rates in Vardaman will be going up this fall. Mayor James Casey said after reviewing existing expenses and revenues, the board needed to look at an increase.
James Casey
After discussion, the board approved raising the rates effective October 1 which will be on the November billing.
New rates will be $16 for the first 2,000 gallons, $4 for one extra gallon and then $2 per 1,000 gallons.
Old rates were $14 for the first 2,000 gallons, $4 for one extra gallon and then $1.50 per 1,000 gallons. The town has about 600 water accounts.
Mayor Casey also recommended that the town’s millage rate be raised from 34-36. Alderman Wilbur Holmes made a motion, but it died for lack of a second.
The board then voted to leave the millage at 34.
All town employees were re-hired at last night’s meeting, but the board will meet in recess next Tuesday, Aug. 13 at 7 p.m. to discuss salaries. The board also set a public hearing on the proposed budget for Tuesday, Sept. 3 at 7 p.m. prior to the regular meeting of the board at 7:30 p.m.
In another matter, the board approved the $800 purchase of a computer, monitor and printer for the police department to replace an old one. Police Chief Kenny Scott said the price includes $100 for Wayne Stone to transfer files from the old computer to the new one. Scott said the computer is used for accident and incident reports.
The board approved a quote of $800 for a dead tree to be cut on Gaines Street. The tree is on the town right of way.
They also approved a one-time water bill adjustment for Betty Golliday. While Golliday was on vacation, the water line broke under her doublewide and destroyed her floor.
At the beginning of the meeting, Jeff Clements, who was not at the July meeting, was sworn in for another term as alderman.
Clerk Barbara Tedder informed the board of the land sale for delinquent taxes August 26 at 8 a.m.
