City Council approves water, sewer budgets
By KATHLEEN MCKEVITT

In its first meeting of the new year the Council approved its water and sewer budget for 2007. Changes in due dates for water/sewer and business licenses were approved by the council effective January 2007, as follows: Water/Sewer: due the 10th of each month, and Business Licenses by the 15th of the month.

Under new business, the Council approved business licenses for: Blairsville Realty, Inc., Golden Gate Express restaurant, The Indian Store (includes sewing and alterations), D&B Generators and Accessories,Tucker's Emporium and Bakery (86 Town Square) and M&J Auto Sales.

The City is in the final acquisition of property, purchased primarily (95 percent 0through grant money, and (5 percent) from the city budget, to insure clear air space around the airport. Two properties have now been acquired and a third is being appraised for purchase in the near future, finalizing the space required by the FAA and local requirements.

Also under new business, the City has hired Janet Hartman, who recently ran for the Board of Education, as Program Manager for the Downtown Development Authority. This is a parttime, paid position, starting immediately.

The Downtown Development Authority's attorney, John Boemanns’, term has expired and the group has appointed Cary Cox as replacement. Rhonda Mahan who was finishing a term vacated by the present mayor when he was elected to the office, was elected to now begin a full two year term with the DDA.

Kay Wilcox who recently resigned as Assistant Clerk for the City, has been replaced by Layne Ellison. Ellison has been hired at grade level 14, for the Assistant Clerk position.

The City Council meets on the first Tuesday of each month at City Hall.