Demopolis council hears financial audit results

Certified Public Accountant Richard LeCroy presented the results of his firm’s audit to the Demopolis City Council at Thursday evening’s meeting at Rooster Hall.

LeCroy said he experienced no problems during the audit process. He noted two discrepancies regarding the timeliness of utilizing Federal grant funds, but said those were basically a “miscommunication” and did not indicate a problem with the city’s operations. He also noted no serious overruns of the city budget, and said his firm found no major issues with the handling of city funds.

LeCroy noted that sales tax revenue increased $74,000 last year, which he said is particularly impressive in the current economy.

In other matters, Elizabeth Etheridge appeared on behalf of the Demopolis Area Chamber of Commerce, requesting council approval to host Christmas on the River Dec. 5-7, and for the sale of alcohol in the Civic Center during COTR. Both requests were approved.

City Attorney Bill Poole informed the council that two dilapidated houses have been demolished and the lots cleared. He is now seeking collection of the demolition costs from the owners via tax assessment. Poole added that he will have a list of additional properties for the council to consider at its next meeting.

Mayor Mike Grayson shared a letter from Vickie Taylor, commending the fire department for its performance in response to a fire call on Oct. 21.

Also, Police Chief Tommie Reese received approval for two DPD vehicles to be declared surplus and sold. Each vehicle has more than 180,000 miles.