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311 service, sidewalk law on agenda for aldermen |
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Tuesday, 17 November 2009 |
By KELLY DANIELS
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Starkville could have another “first-in-the-state” point with the arrival of a non-emergency 311 phone line.
The Starkville Board of Aldermen will decide today whether to send a proposal to state officials to approve 311, which residents could dial to notify the city of noise and damage to city property.
The convenience would extend to residents throughout Oktibbeha County through an inter-local agreement between the city and county governments.
First introduced by Ward 4 Alderman Richard Corey during his first term, 311 would also serve as an audio center for information inquiries, such as phone numbers and other public information.
“We are set to move forward with the application process,” Mayor Parker Wiseman said.
“The last leg is getting it approved by the Public Service Commission.”
Sidewalk regulations
The Board of Aldermen will also hold its third and final public hearing on a proposed revision of the city ordinance mandating sidewalks as part of new developments. Officials say the draft is ready for approval.
An appointed sidewalk committee has been brainstorming and revising the language of the ordinance for over eight months.
Jim Gafford, who chairs the committee, said that he and fellow members decided that every resident and developer must add sidewalks to developing property.
“This is so that over time well have our sidewalks connected,” Gafford said.
The committee had considered granting the option of a surety bond, but later decided that the city would end up taking on the costs, while sidewalks would not be developed because they would be tied to property the applicants no longer owned. “More than likely the costs would only increase in time,” Gafford said.
The committee also considered the option of paying the city in lieu of developing sidewalks. But legal advice dissuaded Gafford and the committee from including that option, citing case studies.
Healthiest hometown?
Officials are forming a new committee to help Starkville win Healthiest Hometown Award Competition presented by Blue Cross-Blue Shield.
If Starkville wins, it would be named healthiest municipality in the state for its size and also receive $50,000 grant to provide an even healthier local environment.
Wiseman said the ultimate goal for entering the competition is to raise the bar for health and wellness in Starkville.
“The committee will be charged specifically with preparing the city’s application in the competition,” said Wiseman. “Generally, it is my hope that the committee will provide recommendations to the board related to our health and wellness policy.”
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Last Updated ( Saturday, 21 November 2009 )
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