Monteagle: Silent Auction, Leaf Pickup, Disaster Planning
by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer
At the Nov. 25 Monteagle City Council meeting, librarian Karen Tittle announced the ongoing silent auction at the May Justus Memorial Library in Monteagle. The council also heard updates on leaf pickup, disaster planning and construction of the new fire hall.
The library’s silent auction funds the summer reading programs, which typically attract as many as 100 area youth and their families, Tittle said. The auction features theme baskets offering games and toys, kitchenwares, craft items, and more. Bidding ends at noon today, Dec. 6.
Addressing concerns about leaves clogging the gutters, Vice Mayor Tony Gilliam said the city would pick up leaves on city property and select problem locations. Due to the cost and manpower demands, the city discontinued leaf pick up this fall, but will make exceptions to prevent drainage issues.
Reporting on the Planning Commission’s disaster readiness efforts, Gilliam said the commission met with Marion County Emergency Management Director Steve Lamb. “We’re getting on board with those folks so the next time we have a disaster, we don’t have to go through FEMA and will have people in our own county who can help us.”
The Planning Commission is also looking into pursuing block grants to assist with the purchase of two fire trucks.
“The new fire hall is 96 percent complete,” Gilliam said. The fire department is expected to occupy the building in early December.
Gilliam also announced the new roof on the post office had been completed.
Looking ahead, alderwoman Jessica Blalock, who heads up Parks and Recreation, said youth baseball signup would begin in January. Youth baseball is open to all young people ages 3 to 12.
Monteagle has retained the law firm Bible and Bible to represent the city and offer counsel in legal matters. The Jasper based firm also represents the city of Whitwell and the South Pittsburg Housing Authority. The principal, Jerry Bible, is joined by his daughter Sarah Bible.
The council will not meet in December.