Monteagle: Fire Chief, Codes Enforcement, Zoning
by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer
At the Dec. 13 meeting, the Monteagle Council approved a $45,000 budget amendment to provide the salary and benefits for an individual serving in dual roles as fire chief and codes enforcement officer. The council also approved four zoning ordinance amendments recommended by the planning commission.
Alderman Nate Wilson asked where the $45,000 allocation for wages and benefits would come from. Advisor Greg Maloof explained the city expected to receive $14,000 in fire claims. Mayor Marilyn Campbell Rodman added the city anticipated collecting $14,000 from businesses for unpaid signage and permit fees. “[The position] will pay for itself,” Rodman said. Maloof pointed out the city’s fiscal year started in July, meaning a new budget, and only half the $45,000 would be needed up to that time.
Reviewing the provisions of zoning ordinance amendment 21-23, Rodman said the change would expand land use in R-3 residential zoning to allow single family homes. Currently only duplexes and condos are permitted.
The council approved three requests to rezone property from commercial to residential to allow for homes on the sites. Rodman noted in all three instances adjoining properties were zoned residential.
The council tabled a zoning ordinance amendment recommended by the planning commission which provided for increasing the allowed height of hotels and motels to accommodate three stories, rather than just two. The council raised questions about the clause related to fire protection and will seek advice from building inspector Earle Geary. Wilson commented, “We talked a lot about what we want to see as a common vision for Monteagle going forward, and things like taller buildings may or may not fit into that plan … We want to preserve the small town character of Monteagle.”
Reporting on Parks and Recreation, Jessica Favaloro announced a 5 p.m., Monday, Jan. 10, meeting at city hall to discuss the baseball program. Renewing baseball field banners costs $150. A new banner costs $200.
Resident Jim Waller brought to the council’s attention automatic-weapon gunfire in the North Bluff Circle area. When Waller notified the police, the police consulted with the person firing the gun, and the individual agreed to cease. Waller said the gun fire had occurred again. Police will investigate. Rodman said a city ordinance prohibited firing a gun within the city limits.