By Dave Snyder
The Parsons Advocate
A variety of issues were discussed at the City Council meeting. Parsons Fire Department Chief Kevin White addressed the council regarding the fire siren. White said someone approached him with concern about the fire siren being too loud and somewhat bothersome.
White said, “ If a volunteer fireman does not have his pager with him, or is working outside, we have to have some way of getting his attention. The fire siren does this. I realize when a new dispatcher is learning, the wrong combination may cause the siren to be longer, etc., but this obviously improves after time.”
Councilman David Greenlief said, “The siren also warns people that emergency vehicles are on their way. This is a safety concern being met.”
The Pulp Mill Bottom Elevation Project is somewhat on hold right now. The people who were to come to Parsons to discuss this situation were unable to keep the appointment. The city is waiting to hear from Region III regarding this matter.
A new sidewalk is needed on Main Street, down from Community Care. Presently, there are some trees encroaching on the sidewalk. Council agreed to have River City Stump Removal take care of this situation so the sidewalk can be put in.
Citizens have expressed concern over a large tree on Central Avenue. It sits beside Dylan Simmons’ home and across from Steve Long’s home. Neighbors fear that it may fall and cause severe damage. Council has agreed to have Dave’s Tree Service remove this tree.
Police Chief Bill Rowe says there is no way to place a stop sign at the intersection across from the Splash Park. Rowe said, “A stop sign can cause traffic congestion on Rt. 219. We will have to look at other alternatives for next year.”
The Tucker Valley Middle School Cross Country Team needs a trail to use for their practices. Council has agreed to keep grass cleared for this purpose in the Mill Race Park and Corrick’s Ford areas.
There will be an activity for children at Mill Race Park on October 28 with Pumpkin painting at 3 p.m. and a candy walk will follow. Stations will be placed along the walking paths for this purpose.
Digital Soup from Elkins will be completing a project at River City Park. Council approved placement of six cameras, including two bullet cameras, in the park. These cameras will have live feed and recording capabilities. Monies left over from the Splash Park construction are being reallocated for this purpose. Jason Myers stated the cost for this is $4,173.00.
Sam Blosser explained the need for an electric tarp system for the city’s 2005 GMC truck. Blosser said, “To carry trash on this truck you must have it covered. The same goes for hauling road salt. We have been using a regular tarp, but this will be much more sufficient.” Council approved this purchase.
Jason Myers said, “Property on Billings Avenue has been made available to the city. It is 1.2 acres adjacent to Mill Race Park. John Wingfield will sell it to us for $3,500.00 if we want to purchase it.” This purchase was approved by council.
