At their work session Tuesday night, the city council was presented with recommended changes to a city ordinance, adding laws with hefty fines attached. Among those proposed changes are a teenage curfew violation with a fine of $200. The time frame for the curfew may be decided by the council. Other violations would include interference with an officer with a $200 fine and resisting an officer could cost offenders up to $1,000.
The differences are adjusted to making these violations not only state law, but part of the city ordinance. As part of the ordinance, the city could try certain cases as opposed to all cases going before the county's Superior Court.
Fine changes also include either adding increased percentage rates or doubling the fines for speeding in a school or construction zone along with raising the driving under the influence of drugs to the same rate as driving under the influence of alcohol.
Also presented to the council was testing and research regarding the city's streams and creeks. Catherine Fox of Fox Environmental reported findings of acceptable fecal bacteria levels in streams and creeks on days when it is not raining. On rain days, however, those bacteria levels increase, sometimes making it a hazard to swim in the waters. Recommendations were made for the city to abide by state regulations and requirements to maintain safe bacteria levels and identify the sources and finding ways to decrease potential dangers.
After intense and lengthy research, the community master plan was discussed in terms of goals for the city. Among those goals are the development of a town square as a gathering place and overall beautification, historical preservation and an enhancement of educational and recreational opportunities for residents. A chart depicting the ideas for the master plan is on display at city hall.
Also, according to City Manager Trish Sullivan, the dedication of Li'l Rob Taylor Ballfield on Saturday has been moved to 3 p.m.