Monteagle Addresses Playground Disrepair, Dog Problem
by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer
At the Oct. 28 Monteagle City Council meeting, Monteagle Mayor David Sampley read a letter from the city’s insurance provider stating the playground equipment at Hannah Picket Park did not meet “the necessary standard of care,” opening the town to liability and a possible lawsuit. The Council also heard from a woman threatened by unrestrained dogs.
“The insurance company wants us to remove the playground equipment because it’s unsafe,” Sampley said.
“I’ve received multiple phone calls about kids getting hurt,” said Alderwoman Jessica Blalock, who oversees Parks and Recreation. “The equipment has been repaired multiple times.”
“We plan to apply for a grant to replace the playground equipment,” said Alderman Ken Gipson.
Residents attending the meeting pointed to possible financial assistance from Marion County and grant opportunities from CSX Railroad and the state Local Parks and Recreation Fund.
The daughter of a Monteagle resident addressed the council about needing to defend herself with a baseball bat to protect herself from vicious dogs when visiting her mother in Campbell subdivision. Police Chief Jack Hill said the owner of the dogs has been cited and a court date set for January. Sampley recommended in the meantime police patrol the neighborhood on a regular basis.
The council also heard from Jennifer Lane with Hospice of Chattanooga. The council honored Lane’s request to declare November 2019 National Hospice Month and to support related activities.
The council approved on second reading an ordinance relieving the city of the burden of funding depreciation.
The council also approved Fire Chief Mike Holmes’ request to hire a grant writer, cost $600, to write a grant for turnout gear on the department’s behalf. Holmes praised the grant writer whose successful grant proposal recently earned the department a $99,222 Assistance for Firefighters grant to purchase air packs.
Sampley announced an Open House at City Hall Wednesday, Nov. 27, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will feature holiday vendors and free refreshments.
Monteagle will hold its Christmas parade Saturday, Nov. 30, at 4:30 p.m. Participants should line up at The V, the former VFW site, at 3:45 p.m. Trophies will be awarded for the best all-around float and the best representation of the “Grinch” theme.