The City of Copperhill approved a $70,000 loan through United Community Bank during a Monday, August 17, council meeting.
In order to receive a $250,000 grant to rehabilitate the sewer system, the city must make a $105,000 “match.” They currently have $37,000 to contribute toward the effort.
After receiving bids from a couple banks, the city felt the offer through United was the best fit at a 2.07% fixed interest rate for 12 years.
The city will not be responsible for paying back the $250,000, but all money is to be used toward the sewer system.
Alderman Tara Akins asked that an update and review of spending be presented at each meeting once the work begins.
Work cannot begin until all paperwork, engineering and bids are completed.
Mayor Kathy Stewart said she hopes for the project to begin by the end of the fall season.
The rehabilitation will be along Grande Avenue and behind Tallent’s Drug store.
As a result of this funding coming in, City Recorder Suzanne Hughes asked that the city open up an ARC bank account to keep the money in so that they can better monitor it.
Alderman Scott Brooks moved to allow this, which passed unanimously.
After reviewing the month’s financials, Akins asked about their payments to Cintas, a business that provides uniforms and other materials, since the city opted to stop providing uniforms with the exception of a few shirts.
Hughes said the city still has over a year left on their contract.
The council decided to see if they are able to reduce the items they receive from the company.
Local Laura Gale was present to proclaim August Gastroparasis (GP) awareness month in Copperhill.
GP is a disease that affects digestion. The color associated with the disease is green.
The city and Gale hope to host an awareness event in the future.
Alderman Bill Standridge moved to allow David Herring, who conducts karate classes at the gym, to resume his classes, which also opens the gym up to the public.
Additionally, a “major, six inch line” had busted along Tennessee Avenue a few weeks ago, resulting in water issues for customers.
The leak has been fixed since.
During public commentary, a couple residents spoke out against an 18-wheeler truck parking by the water tank.
The truck has restricted residents from accessing the area.
Hughes said the issue has been addressed and the city will be in contact with the driver.