Canton Board of Aldermen addresses infrastructure and community initiatives at February meeting

By Courtney Warren

The Canton Board of Aldermen held its regular meeting on February 18 at Canton City Hall, where key issues related to infrastructure, community events and future projects were discussed and voted on.

Mayor William Truly, Jr. called the meeting to order, followed by an invocation and roll call. Present at the meeting were Aldermen Markee Blount, Rodriquez Brown, Fred Esco Jr., Les Penn, Tim C. Taylor, Lafayette E. Wales, and Alderwoman Monica Gilkey.

The Board adopted the agenda before welcoming a series of presenters. Corey Tate and Brooks Edward from ENT, LLC, along with Comelia Walker, Demetra Stewart, Iveanna Murry, Canton Tourism, Nancy Pate, Waggoner Engineering, and Angela Stewart, shared updates and proposals on various community projects.

One of the major agenda items was the discussion and consideration of a concrete slab parking lot with line spaces versus a gravel parking lot for a commercial property. The Board also reviewed and approved a proposal from Drews Design and Construction to rework sheetrock, rehang and trim outdoor fixtures, and replace fluorescent lights for a total of $3,965.

Additionally, the Board ratified an engagement letter with Novum Advisory PLLC and the City of Canton and considered an agreement with the Canton City Clerk and the Republican/Democrat Executive Committee, in accordance with Mississippi law.

Infrastructure improvements were a focal point, including the approval of a culvert repair and drainage damage project at 503 Harvey Watkins Drive due to water runoff erosion. The Board also authorized Waggoner Engineering to prepare a task order for addressing flooding issues on Cowan Street.

Election support was addressed with the Board’s approval of an agreement for ES&S Election Systems & Software. They also approved a credit application to purchase chemicals through a purchase order.

In the consent agenda, the Board approved funding for bands participating in the Black History Parade, allocating $175 each to the Canton High School Band Booster and the Velma Jackson High School Band, and $170 to the Lanier Band Booster Club.

The Board then moved into an executive session to discuss personnel matters across the Police Department, Building and Development Department, Fire Department, and Supervision and Finance. Discussions also covered potential litigation and negotiations regarding the prospective sale and lease of lands.
The next regular Board meeting is scheduled for March 18 at Canton City Hall.