By Fred Guarino
The Lowndes Signal

Water rates, garbage pickup, cleanup around bridges and changes to burn permits were among items discussed at the White Hall Town Council meeting Thursday night.

Mayor Elizabeth Davis said water operator Fred Smith is handling a water rate study.

Davis said the last rate increase for White Hall was made two years ago when the town went from $14 to $16 on the flat rate, which she said includes 4,000 gallons of water.

She said the Alabama Department of Environmental Management has recommended a rate increase in order for the town to maintain its water system.

While Davis said, “We have been doing out best to try to keep it (the rate) down,” she said the town is being told by more than one source that the rate “is still too low.”

She said the recommended rate would be based on the number of customers. In addition to a rate increase, she said a reduction from 4,000 gallons of water to 2,000 gallons on the flat rate has been suggested.

Council member Moses A. Bandy said the town is waiting to hear from Alfa Insurance about the library roof, which was damaged during recent storms. He said the building is repairable.

Council member Walter Bates said a cleanup around the bridge located near Jackson-Steele Elementary will be done and an effort is being made to catch those who have been dumping garbage over the sides.

The council also discussed replacement of broken garbage containers and other garbage collection issues.

Charles Mays, a local citizen, thanked the mayor and council for its efforts and prayers at a time of grief. He also pointed out that the current burn permit issued by the town allows only one day for use. He asked what would happen if it rained.

The council agreed to look into allowing more days before the permit expires.

Council member Audrey Peterson said Rev. Franklin Nettles thanked the council for signs about children playing.

Davis said one sign was put on Bowie Circle. But another sign will be ordered.

Peterson said the council has been invited to a Senior Olympics meeting in August to consider ways to help sponsor the 2012 event.

The only actions requiring a vote and approved by the council were to approve the minutes and to adjourn.