Use of ARP funds trigger debate at Council meeting

Differences of opinions on how American Rescue Plan funds should be used and the priority of infrastructure repairs led to a debate between Mayor Woody Collins and Councilman Charles Jones Jr. at the Demopolis City Council meeting Thursday. At issue were the storm waters that cause both flooding along Main Avenue because of a collapsed pipe and sewer backup from a broken water line that has made two houses unlivable on Jefferson Street.

Jones wanted the city to use its own funds to repair the broken sewer line that runs between Walnut and Main instead of using ARP funds. Collins pressed for using ARP money for the work, estimated to cost more than $400,000.

Collins suggested the problem Jones wants solved should begin with the Water and Sewer Board, but Jones stressed, “Don’t spend all that (ARP) money just yet.”

In the end, the Council voted to accept the Main Avenue work.

The Theo Ratliff Center also will benefit from ARP funds. Gaddy Electric won the bid for replacing two air conditioning units at a cost of $48,800. Using the ARP money frees other money from the Parks and Recreation Department budget for work to repair the ballroom at the center and to begin repair work on the walking trail at the SportsPlex, said Walker Reynolds, director.

During the work session prior to the meeting, councilmen heard from Rhae Darsey, director of Main Street Demopolis. The group is applying to become a part of Main Street Alabama, a nonprofit organization that follows a model for community revitalization that has seen success across the nation. She asked the city to pass a resolution supporting Demopolis’ efforts to be chosen. The Council passed the resolution unanimously.

The mayor named six residents to the Beautification Committee:  Brandy Guy, Sean Parker, Will Coplin, Rhae Darsy, Amanda Smith and Mem Webb.

The Council approved the application for assembly for Rooster Day April 9.

Two men appearing before the Council were directed to begin their requests through the Planning Commission. New Birth Outreach Ministry is asking for a street closure, and Sam Omar requested a change in the ordinance regarding banners.