Goode
Mayor Walter Goode read documents publicly explaining the services such as police, fire, trash collection, street lighting and other public amenities which would be provided when annexation of the Maplecrest addition is completed.
Council members Donna McDermott and Larry Anderson voted to approve the service plan. According to previous reports, the annexation would raise Charleston’s population by at least 1,000 new residents.
Also, Charleston City Park will have new times for opening and closure. The times will be posted at the entrances to the park which is nestled in the center of the city. McDermott suggested the park open at 7 a.m. and close at 10 p.m. The park driving entrances will be secured as well, according to McDermott.
Several upcoming events such as the annual Tractor Show in October and the International Cowpea Festival and any other special events times which may go past 10 p.m. will not be affected. The council will approve any overages in times involving special events which may run later than the 10 p.m. closing time.
New playground equipment options for the park were also discussed.
A grant would aid in the purchase of new equipment and improvements in the park.
The Commission is seeking $75,000 that it would match through labor, donations, volunteer work, cash, and other means. “We believe this is a vital element for the health and welfare for the citizens of Charleston,” Goode stated. Goode said the Commission is committed to completing the project within two years of the contract start date. Goode made the statement during the June session.
Log and transfer truck traffic through the city was also raised for discussion.
According to Anderson, he has noticed log trucks coming through the city from the east. Anderson raised concerns about small bridges and culverts which may give way under the weight of the heavy loads carried by the trucks en route to Resolute (Bowater).
“We have already had to deal with one collapse,” he said regarding the reconstruction of a culvert system near the Charleston Park.
Officials are expected to seek additional information about where the truckers may be originating their trips and any alternate routes which could be utilized, as well as any legalities the city may have in routing truck traffic.
When it came to the audience’s turn to voice concerns, Connie Hayden raised issues regarding the cleanup of several properties.
The former First Baptist Church parsonage located on Market Street, property located between the former Dollar Store and King’s Restaurant and an area across Highway 11 were discussed as well as an area on Water Street.
