The second monthly meeting of the Magee Mayor and Board of Aldermen for January 2025 was held on January 22 due to inclement weather on the regular meeting day, January 21. Alderman Patrick Brown was absent.
Mayor Dale Berry stated that the IRIS program approved on January 7 is up and running. He asked for assistance from Alderman Sue Honea of Magee News and the Magee Courier to help get the word out to residents, asking that they contact City Hall with updated contact information.
He added that the city’s paving project may only continue when the temperature is above 45 degrees (F).
Under Old Business, Zoning Director Penny Aguirre brought up the public hearing that was held over from January 7 regarding property at 727 1st Ave. SE. Aguirre provided photos taken that afternoon showing some cleanup. Property owner Angie Von Seutter approached the board stating it would take time to complete the task required as her son, Michael Von Seutter, was the only one to handle the cleanup of the property. Following several minutes of discussion on the cleanup, consent to search form, property deed, and grandfathered rental mobile homes, Von Seutter said of her son, “He’s doing his best to get it cleaned up on his own.” After more discussion the board unanimously approved the motion to declare the property a menace to the public welfare of the city and proceed as necessary.
Zoning Board Chairman Jim Ball appeared before the board reminding those running for public office to heed signage requirements for candidates and campaigns. He also stated the need for spot zoning, requesting a town hall meeting to discuss private property owner rezoning criteria.
Brett Duncan with Prince CPA updated the board on overtime reports, commending all departments in their efforts to cut back on overtime, especially the Magee Police Department that typically has the most hours. MPD saw a decrease from 500 to 150 hours.
Duncan also reported on 2025 Mississippi House Bill 1 regarding cuts to sales tax and the impacts on city tax revenue. It passed the House and has been sent to the Senate.
Public Works Director Tim Bray informed the board that two service pumps at Plant 1 froze during the recent frigid temperatures, resulting in equipment bursting that must be repaired. The board approved a motion declaring an emergency authorizing payment to Greenbrier for the repairs at $9,000. No boil water was or is necessary.
Magee Police Chief Denis Borges asked the board to approve an expenditure of $295 for training for Sgt. Shane Fewell that will take place February 24-26. It was authorized. Borges also requested executive session for personnel issues.
Fireman Michael Allan appeared before the board in the place of Fire Chief David Craft. The board approved a motion to accept the one bid on the purchase of radios pending adequate funding. Allan also requested executive session for a personnel issue.
Aguirre recommended on behalf of the Zoning Board’s recommendation the conditional use of the former Mims Mitchell Funeral Home as a church. The board approved the recommendation. Magee Preservation Commission Chair Tiffany Kinslow met with members of MS Dept. of Archives & History who encouraged the MPC to apply for certified local government (CLG) grants to pursue National Register Status for buildings. In addition they discussed what could be done to complete some emergency repairs to the old Magee Elementary School Gym particularly the roof to prevent further deterioration. The MPC is moving ahead in the application of grants. The board also approved an updated version of the 2010 Emergency Management Operation Plan presented by Aguirre.
Building Inspector Al Sullivan informed the board of permits recently approved including commercial and residential. Fourteen various types of inspections were performed. One city contractor license was renewed and one new city contractor license was approved. In addition, two residential demolitions will take place in February at 301 1st Ave., NW and 817 5th Ave. SE.
Parks and Recreation Director Jimmy Zila presented two bids to the board to repair the Sports Plex lighting stating it is “crucial” for lights to be replaced for the safety of those on the grounds. The first tournament of the spring is scheduled for February 15 and lights must be repaired before that date. The board approved the RE Contractors bid for $54,500.
Airport Manager Mike Berry updated the board on the beacon light repairs. The recent weather has prohibited moving forward.
Kristina Wood, FNP appeared before the board with an update on her request to close the road near her new clinic. The railroad and MDOT have approved the road closure. However, she is still having difficulty reaching one more landowner. The board called a special meeting to be held January 29, 5:00 pm to discuss the road closure.
The board moved into executive session approving recommendations from MPD Chief Borges. One full time dispatcher moved to part time. A new position for an evidence custodian was created and a dispatcher trainer role established. The board also approved one additional volunteer firefighter for the Magee Volunteer Fire Department.
