Happy New Year
Like you, city staff are looking forward to what lies ahead in 2023. The new year promises construction to begin on several of the CDBG Disaster Recovery Grants. In addition, the department heads have project plans of their own.
In 2022, Mr. Floyd Scott, the Public Works Director, had worked with the Florida Rural Water Association in developing an Asset Management Plan, which the Board of Commissioners approved. This coming year he will be implementing mapping software that allows him to map out the entire town. Florida Rural Water Association has already added the Public Works assets which allows for a maintenance plan. This is a game changer because for the first time, the department can be proactive in maintaining equipment on a schedule. If you run into him, be sure to ask how it’s going.
Ms. Sherri, the town Clerk is currently developing a plan to tackle the town’s records. The Administration department stays so busy with maintaining the town’s books and day to day operations that records have become an issue. The clerk has attended training twice in the last two years, which touched on the subject. She believes this is the year for improving records maintenance. The clerk is also seeking those would serve on the new Events Committee. Call City Hall if interested. She says events are an area we want to see grow. However, our small staff needs help.
Chief Watford has hired a part time officer. The Chief says, “it’s good to have some help.” Between April and September, he worked countless extra hours to ensure the town’s safety. The Chief of Police is a salary position, meaning no additional pay. In the next couple of years, we’ll have a new police department building. We’re hoping the Chief gets to enjoy some time there before he retires.
The Council plans to honor our volunteer fire fighters in April of 2023. The Volunteer Fire Department, under the leadership of Fire Chief Ty Daniels keeps improving. Fire Chief Daniels applies for and receives grants each year. Last year he received a new fire truck, and new equipment. Ty is always looking for men and women who have a heart to serve their community through firefighting. The Fire Department will be added to the website in the coming months. As always, applications can be picked up at City Hall.
The City of Cottondale wishes all our neighbors and businesses a Happy New Year!
