Jones said there is enough money in the water fund and he'd like to go ahead and pay for it. He said that would free up the $2,000 spent monthly in rent for something else.
"It's a thing of pride to say we own our city hall and that Bartow is not our landlord anymore," Jones said.
Councilman Edward Miklas asked the mayor if it was legal to use money from water funds for something else. "Very legal," Jones replied.
Councilwoman Louise Howell wanted to know why the money isn't being used for water. Miklas agreed, adding that they should save the money for other things since the county isn't charging any interest.
Jones said the issue will be discussed further in future meetings. He said buying back city hall would cost about $30,000.
In other Kingston news, the council voted to postpone next Monday's scheduled meeting until Thursday, April 14. This is to give enough time for the proposed budget notice to run in the paper.
"Georgia state law says you have to allow a seven-day window for comments," Jones said. The notice is scheduled to run in this Thursday's Daily Tribune News.
Jones told the council they would see the proposed budget before the public does. He said he did make "severe cuts." Last year's budget was $600,000. Jones expects this year's to be around $450,000.
"We're not out here to break any citizens to fund the city, but there are some expectations," Jones said.
The council discussed several things the city needed, but voted to table the items until a budget is set. On that list will be the purchase of two patrol cars, hiring part-time summer help, a treasurer and a patrol officer. Also on the list is the purchase of playground equipment. Jones said a swing broke recently and a little girl fell off. Although she wasn't hurt, he said it could have been worse.
Jones said there is money in the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax for recreation.
"It's something that needs to be done to keep children safe," said Councilman Chuck Wise.
Other items discussed were:
* Contract for work on the city hall sewer. Jones said there is a big problem with the old system that will cost at least $7,000 to fix.
* The forming of a Youth Activity Board to facilitate things for the youth of Kingston to do. Jones said they will select some youth to volunteer for the board.
* Kingston Spring Fling will be held May 7, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and will feature a children's pageant, live entertainment, food, petting zoo, face painting and more. For more information call Tina Wilson at 678-848-4750.