Piedmont Police Chief Nathan Johnson updated the city council on the department’s vehicle woes. Their 2015 Chevy Tahoe recently experienced engine failure, and two 2019 Dodge Chargers had fuel injector concerns within three days of each other. Chief Johnson listed Tahoe repair options which included prices for a new engine and for a repair. He speculates that the Charger troubles stem from possible bad gas, considering the close dates of their malfunctions. The council brought up the possibility of purchasing new police vehicles, but the group tabled any decision on how to proceed until the next meeting, asking the chief to create a list of all city police vehicles, mileage, and general condition.
Citizen Ivy Poole brought a concern to the council about flooding in his yard caused by backed up storm drains on South Church Street. The council also discussed a frequent flooding situation elsewhere in the City where the positioning of large trees hinder the effort.
In other business, the council passed Ordinance 648, which updated a sale in the Industrial Park to include ten adjoining acres for parking lot expansion and future growth for a business which had been approved by the previous administration but not completed. The Ordinance declares the property as surplus and allows the City to finalize the sale.
The council members also passed Ordinance 646, updated their personnel policies and procedures. Resolution 2026-16 was also approved, giving the mayor the authority to enter into a lease for a new garbage truck.
Fire Chief Todd Kirkland reported that there is a July 20th date for inspections regarding the new fire truck. He hopes to have the new truck by the end of July or the first of August.
The council appointed former Mayor Bill Baker to the Health Care Authority.
Another citizen stated a concern about city mowing slinging rocks at his building on Memorial Drive.
The mayor reminded those present of the 4th of July celebration at the sports complex 4:00 – 8:00 pm. He also reported on the progress of auditors that are in the city this week.
Approved bills for payment June 2nd – June 12 in the amount of $580.428.45.
