The July 2 meeting of the Magee Mayor and Board of Aldermen opened with three public hearings lead by Zoning Director Penny Aguirre.
The case regarding property at 926 4th Street S.E. has been at issue the last several weeks. The resident, who was not present, did not comply with agreed upon determinations made during the June 18 board meeting. Another resident living at the dwelling came forward initially giving consent to an inspection of the property; however, consent was withdrawn later during the meeting.
Regarding the property at 807 5th Avenue, S.E., the work promised by June 26 was not complete. The board passed a motion to condemn the property.
The first hearing regarding property located at Highway 49 North, Magee, Miss., purchased by Mahmood Abedikichi on May 18, 2016, was held in regard to the condition of the property, vehicles, campers and people living on the property without consent.
Aguirre, Fire Chief David Craft and Building Inspector Kara Lucas met with Abedikichi and his daughter Persia prior to the meeting. All agreed the property was unsafe and a liability for the owner. The board passed a motion allowing Abedikichi two weeks to begin the process of filing proper complaints of trespassing charges with the Magee Police Department, working with the department heads of zoning, inspection and fire to remove debris and individuals from his property. He will appear at the next board meeting on July 16.
Forrest Dungan with Clearpoint Consulting Engineering updated the board on the status on the water meter, street paving and park projects.
Coach Ernest Jaynes, president of the MC-MVAC Historical Society came before the board to request matching funding for grants applied for to renovate the old Magee Elementary School. It has been approved as a museum site by the Mississippi Department of Archives & History.
One of its purposes will be to provide a place for community activities for Magee residents of all ages. Coach Jaynes cited the renovations of the Community House as an example of what MC-MVAC hopes will happen for the old elementary school as well.
All parties the group has spoken with agree that the structure is sound but to move forward they will need significant financial support. Coach Jaynes stated that he and Dr. Anika Floyd had appeared before the board now as they know budget discussions will begin soon.
Mayor Dale Berry recommended that MC-MVAC put together the requested amounts needed so they may be submitted in August/September before budget workshops.
Public Works Director Tim Bray informed the board of a manhole on Choctaw Street in need of significant repair before the street paving project begins. He is waiting on two bids to submit for approval by the board to complete the work. His crew is in process of installing guards for the steps by the Community House as previously requested. The board approved declaring a John Deere Gator and lawn mower surplus.
Police Chief Shane Little requested executive session to discuss employment issues and new hires.
Chief Craft informed the board that the new fire truck has arrived.
Aguirre reported that two public zoning hearings have been scheduled for August 13 on one property at 116 Main Avenue, N and a set of properties behind the Magee Post Office. The board approved publication of both hearings.
She also presented a special event request by Speaking Victory Ministries to use the parking lot adjacent to the Community House for a school supply drive on July 13. She said there was no need of city services except for the Civic Center foyer to be open so restrooms may be available. The board approved a motion to allow the usage.
A Certified Local Governance ordinance has been resubmitted, and Lucas is the new CLG coordinator. The document is under immediate review. In addition, the Main Street Association application has also been submitted.
Lucas updated the board on permit issues with Shining Starz ABA and T Mobile, as well as ongoing projects.
Airport Manager Mike Berry updated the board on airport matters. Fuel is still set at $4.50 a gallon. Airport usage and fuel purchases are increasing.
Under other business, City Attorney Wesla Sullivan asked for input into the development of the lease agreement for the Civic Center, Community House and PriorityOne Senior Center. Following discussion Sullivan will revise the existing agreement. She is reworking the liquor ordinance and will present it to the board when completed.
The board moved into executive session for police matters and litigation issues.
