The first meeting of the newly elected Magee Mayor and Board of Aldermen convened Tuesday, July 1,
Mayor Mark Grubbs opened his comments saying that he and board members are there to support Magee, not create an “us versus them” environment, believing working together Magee may be made a better place.
Grubbs presented two motions that were passed unanimously. Roberts Rules of Order will be used for conducting board meetings. To appear before the board, residents will continue to submit a public appearance request form in advance.
The mayor reported that the water meter project and paving projects are complete with the paving project coming in $65,000 under budget. The City Park playground equipment is scheduled to arrive July 14 pending weather. Champion Contractors will begin site work the first week of July, pending weather.
Grubbs said that the city is working on developing a master plan for water and waste water improvements, noting that Magee has a crumbling infrastructure at least 60-70 years old. Clearpoint Engineering is tasked with the project.
Lastly Grubbs stated that board members will discuss advisory committee appointments at the next board meeting. For the Zoning Commission and Airport Commission the mayor has two appointments; aldermen, one each. The Elections Commission made up of three people requires nomination and voting.
The board approved a motion to continue the contract with Windham and Lacey PLLC in Pearl, MS adopted by the previous board, to complete the city audits from 2020-2024.
By unanimous vote board members elected Lawana Thompson Mayor Pro Tempore.
Newly intalled Alderwoman Allyson Berch recused herself from the vote on the Claims Docket as her company, Central Ace Hardware, had line items listed that were purchased before this board took office. The docket was approved.
Rene’ O’Cain Craft appeared before the board with concerns regarding damage to a privacy fence on her property and questions about transparency for board members.
She received a pink slip regarding her fence stating that she had lined up a contractor to repair the missing boards; however, he is currently working a job in Laurel. O’Cain acknowledged that the city was unaware of this information. “This is my problem. As board members I think we should hold to the same guidelines that we would want our citizens to hold to, correct?”
She then produced photos of board members’ properties in question belonging to Alderwomen Suzie Bourn and Allyson Berch, stating this was not personal just business. O’Cain also questioned the ethics of the use of city internet service during board meetings by Alderwoman Sue Honea, owner of Magee News, which live streams the meetings.
Public Works Director Tim Bray said that as weather permits the crew continues to maintain public clean up, bush hogging and mosquito spraying. The department is now down to a push mower and is in need of a new riding mower. Brent Duncan with Prince CPA told Bray he may purchase one as of July 1, the start of the new fiscal year with a state contract. The board approved the request.
Police Chief Borges requested that the board review the policies and procedures manual submitted several weeks ago. The new members asked for copies and time to review. The board accepted the resignation of an officer as full time who will move to part time. Borges requested executive session for personnel issues.
Fire Chief David Craft stated the hydrant flushing project is 30 percent complete. They have slowed down the process due to bursting water lines and leaks. The painting will begin when the flushing is complete.
Zoning Administrator Penny Aguirre requested a public hearing to clean up a property on 5th Avenue that belongs to a church. There is also an encampment behind the house. She has spoken to the owner several times. The board approved the request.
Aguirre submitted a request that the board consider scanning old documents – at least 50 boxes – for easier retrieval and archival purposes. Board members asked for a second bid on the project. Lastly Aguirre provided a property maintenance report containing a partial list of completed and ongoing projects.
Building Inspector Duane Simmons submitted his report that included 14 permits approved and inspections completed. In addition, one affidavit for tree removal without license, insurance or bonding was issued. Two demolition projects are complete and three demo projects will begin soon.
Parks and Recreation Director Jimmy Zila informed the board that Magee’s eight-year-old girls finished second in the state tournament. All teams attending state won games. He reminded the board of the fireworks show planned for Friday, July 4, at 9 p.m. at the Sports Plex. Zila added that he plans to communicate with each board member as there is much to discuss.
Airport Manager Mike Berry reported that recent rains have had an overall impact on airport usage. A water leak has been repaired.
The board moved into executive session where Magee Police Department was approved for one full-time new hire.
