By Angela Barentine

“Lights On,” was a topic of discussion presented by citizen Joe Butts to the City Commission on Tuesday, November 15.

Mr. Butts addressed the Commission with concerns that the West side of Cordele is too dark and not safe for the elderly and others.

Butts stated, “15th Street is like a death trap!”

He continued to state that he had a petition with 575 names on it in a plea for the city to correct the lighting issue.

Continuing on the light topic, the City spends approximately $240,700 annually for lighting and changes are in play to switch over to LED lighting.

The City Public Works Director Steve Fulford reported to the Commission that an engine in a 10-year old city truck failed and the cost to replace it would be $18,000.  Due to the age of the truck, Fulford obtained two bids from Brannen Motor Company and Sunbelt Ford for a new truck.

A motion was made, second, and approved to move forward to purchase a new truck instead of repairing the old one.

City Utilities Director Debbie Wright presented to the Commission with concerns of the city’s water level.  Currently, the level is much worse than last year.  There has been no measurable rain since September 25 and severe drought conditions exist.  Level 1 drought conditions have been issued.

In other news, the Commission was pleased that the entire city’s meter controls have been successfully changed out to accommodate electronic reading devices.  Praise and thanks was given to Superintendent Benny Harpe of the Meter Control Department and his staff for a job well done.

Approval passed for street closures for the upcoming Downtown Wonderland and Christmas Parade events, both being held on Friday, December 2,  and for city offices to be closed Thursday and Friday, November 24 – 25, for Thanksgiving holidays.

Approval also passed for Rod McLeod to serve on the Board of Directors for the Cordele Downtown Development Authority.