Minutes for July 28, 2009

Mayor Burgess called the meeting to order with the following Council Members present: Anne Peppers, Angela Porter, Traysa Price and David Keener. Also present were City Manager Doug White and City Clerk Susan Roper and Grady Lemonds, Frank Sherill and Hal Dally from the SCDA.

Chairman Lemonds explained that the SCDA had options on 2 parcels of land between Solo and General Mills. He stated that both property owners were willing to finance for 3.5% interest for 3 years. This would give the SCDA control of the property.

After some discussion Council Member Peppers made a motion, seconded by Council Member Keener to approve going forward subject to Public Hearing for 1 mill increase with the understanding that Walton County might participate in the deal. Further authorize SCDA to authorize execution of documents with seller and ask Walton County to participate at least 50%. Land would be titled to Social Circle Development Authority. All were in favor.

City Manager Doug White discussed the 2009-2010 budget. Much discussion prevailed on the Water and Sewer Fund. He explained how we got to where we are and suggested a bond issue to lower the debt service in the short term to help with cash flow. He also pointed out that rate increases were necessary.

Doug introduced John Hewitt, Hues Inc. (rate analyst) to discuss rates.

After much information and discussion with John and questions from the Mayor and Council it was agreed that we would move forward in the budget with 40% water and 10% sewer increases.

Meeting adjourned at 8:00 PM.