"Approving this resolution does not mean we endorse it," said Mayor Matt Santini during the council's work session. "We're just giving the people the opportunity to vote. Everyone I have talked to has said this would benefit their business."
Along with the resolution, the council approved other city matters during their regular meeting Thursday. Among those issues were the authorization for the water pollution plant to replace the press feed pump and the biosolids pump. Purchase of a valve to control the water flow speeds also was approved.
After a short debate over what may be in the best interest of the public in the future, the council approved an amendment to their intergovernmental agreement with Bartow County regarding the 2014 Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax. The debate centered around whether or not to pay off Joint Development Authority bonds in full, ultimately saving over $5 million in interest, or to continue paying the regular monthly payment. The council unanimously approved paying the debt in full.
Cartersville Police Chief Thomas Culpepper submitted a request for five new vehicles to replace old patrol units. After receiving six bids from different dealerships examining Ford, Chevrolet and Dodge vehicles, the department requested the purchase of five new, still-on-the-lot 2010 Dodge Chargers. The request was approved by the council.
Public hearings regarding the millage rate were opened during the meeting. No citizens came forth and the rates were approved on the same rate as 2010 as follows: M&O property tax at 1.38 mills, Cartersville City Schools property tax at 17.23 mills; and Cartersville business improvement district property tax at 2.50 mills.