Call to Order

The public hearing on West Columbia's general fund budget for fiscal year 2009- 2010 was called to order at 6:04 pm. West Columbia City Council members present included Mayor Bobby E. Horton, Mayor Pro- Tem Tommy Parler, Eric L. Fowler, L. Dale Harley, Jack L. Harmon, Marsha Moore, and Cathy Shannon. B.J. Unthank was absent.

Budget discussion

City Administrator Jennifer T. Cunningham reviewed the budget. Cunningham said the city's budget was balanced, and the city would be not be raising taxes. She said the general fund budget had increased by 7% from the previous fiscal year due to nearly $1 million in grants. Among line items within the budget, Cunningham noted that the most expensive individual item was a $350,000 fire engine to replace one dating from the 1970s. Cunningham added that more than 55% of the budget goes to public safety. She explained there were no cost of living or revenue increases. Cunningham hopes the city can provide a 2% cost of living increase for its employees in January. Council members praised city staff and Mayor Horton praised city staff for working not to "increase taxpayer burden." He then adjourned the public meeting on the budget at 6:10 pm.

Announcements by mayor and Beautification Foundation Report

Immediately following the public hearing, council began its regular meeting. Mayor Pro- Tem Parler reviewed the work of the West Columbia Beautification Foundation. Parler said the beautification foundation was started in November 2007. Members of the foundation were chosen from citizens across West Columbia. Parler emphasized that citizens who serve on the foundation pledge both their time and money with foundation members donating several thousands of dollars to the organization. The foundation also has received grant money from Lexington County. The organization is funded entirely through private donations and grants and uses no taxpayer money. Among other activities, the foundation is working to erect a new sign for the city at the Gervais Street Bridge. The foundation also awards businesses that seek to beautify the area surrounding their workplaces. Past recipients of the award include Agape Senior Center and the Bojangles across from West Columbia City Hall.

Old business

Second reading unanimous approval was given to two annexation ordinances, one concerning a property on Sunset Boulevard and the other on N. Brown Street, respectively.

New business

First unanimous approval was given to an ordinance adopting the city's proposed budget for fiscal year 2009- 2010. Councilman Harley commended city staff on their excellent work.

Fred H. Carter was unanimously reappointed to the West Columbia Zoning Board of Appeals for a three- year term ending May 2012. Carter currently serves as chairman of the zoning board.

Carl "Preston" Grisham was unanimously appointed to the West Columbia Zoning Board of Appeals for a three- year term ending May 2012. Mayor Horton noted Grisham is replacing J.W. Hendrix, who is retiring after 17 years on the board.

Adjournment

Having no further business, council adjourned at 6:23 pm.