Council approves vehicle purchase
BY SUZANNE LOUDAMY Staff writer

Following a lengthy discussion of the current patrol vehicles as well as public works vehicles and equipment needs, Troup City Council approved the purchase of 2 new patrol cars, a new public works truck, a sewer machine and outfitting for all. The price tag approved for the purchase was set at $100,000. Mayor Whitsell and City Administrator Russ Obar explained to the council a loan plan called a contractual obligation. Basically it allows the City to make the purchases now and defer payment until next year. By that time, there can be an approved line item in the City's budget to cover the payments.

Whitsell as well as Police Chief Hendrix enlightened the council on the sad condition of the patrol cars.

"Our patrol vehicles stay in the shop more than on the road," Whitsell said.

With discussion of the sewer machine, Obar said the current tank is completely worn out and the pump works only about half the time.

"We are currently borrowing a sewer machine from the City of Whitehouse," Obar said.

Other than approval of minutes, no other action was taken. The remainder of the meeting was discussion and reports.

Council was briefed on the draft of the Water Quality Regulations for Lake Columbia. Council member Carole Wilson voiced concern over the stringent rules outlined in the draft. Obar advised the council that there would be another public comment opportunity before it went for final consideration by the Angelina and Neches River Authority.

Mayor Whitsell advised the council of an upcoming meeting with the City of Whitehouse and attorneys for the preparation of an Inter-local agreement for the reservation and eventual purchase of 3.9 million gallons/day of water from Lake Striker. Currently the City of Troup is considering 1 million gallons/day and the City of Whitehouse is considering 2.9 million gallons/ day. Council member Wilson asked that any agreement be brought before the Troup council for approval before anything final is signed. Mayor Whitsell said that would indeed be the case.

Mayor Whitsell updated the council on several matters. First of which was the resignation of Of ficer Lazarine from the Troup PD. He has received a better offer elsewhere. The council wished him well.

The mayor asked that the council consider looking into the possibility of annexing some areas adjacent to the city limits. The areas he stressed were Hwy. 110 north of the city and Hwy. 110 and 135 south of the city.

In an effort to improve the regulation of use, construction and activity on parcels of land with the city, Mayor Whitsell asked the council to consider zoning ordinances in the future. "Hopefully with this planning grant, we can put together a zoning ordinance," said Whitsell.

The final item was an announcement of a joint election to be held with the Troup ISD in May 2007.