By BECKY CRISSMAN

becky.crissman@cordeledispatch.com

VIENNA — Council members here handled a brief agenda during their regular meeting Monday night.

Mayor and Council discussed the budget for the coming fiscal year during a brief work session at the beginning of the meeting. Following that session the board had two items presented by City Administrator Michael Bowens for their approval.

The first of those items was a resolution to apply for USDA Communities Facilities Grant/Loan for the Vienna Police Department. According to Bowens the USDA informed the city there is money available for purchasing police vehicles and equipment. Applications must be submitted by August 1 to be eligible to receive those funds. If approved the money will be used to purchase two new police vehicles and fingerprinting equipment for the department.

The board voted unanimously to approve the resolution and move forward with that application.

The second was for another resolution, also from the USDA Communities Facilities Grant/Loan. The second application would be for the City Public Works Department. The funds would be used to purchase two public works vehicles that would replace existing vehicles that are over 20 years old. The money would also be used to purchase a more modern street sweeper due to the age of the one currently in service. The council also approved this resolution by a unanimous vote and will proceed with that application.   

Public Works Director Nathan Jordan submitted his written report to council members. He also informed the board that citizens in the area of Harden Street had requested speed bumps be installed in the area. Citizens complained that drivers are speeding and drag racing down the road, posing a hazard to citizens. Council members recalled the street had speed bumps before its was resurfaced and asked Jordan to look into having them put back in.

Bowens informed mayor and council that the Vienna Police Department would be hosting a Back to School Bash on Saturday at the Downtown Square to give away needed school supplies to students in Dooly County. There will also be games and food in the square.

He also informed the board that the Dooly Medical Center will host a Mobile Food Pantry on August 10.

As a matter of information Bowens said that Congressman Sanford Bishop would be in Vienna on August 3 to tour the Tyson plant.

Before adjourning the meeting Mayor Hobby Stripling, Sr. said he appreciated all the good things he is seeing in the community.