JARRETT GOODMAN
Staff Writer
Two resolutions regarding both the Beene Pearson Public Library’s future as an independent library, and a policy regarding the use of city equipment has been discussed during South Pittsburg’s August meeting.
Under old business and after much debate, Resolution 1049, regarding the authorization to establish the Beene Pearson Library as its own independent entity, was voted through three-to-two votes. The three votes were for no, while the two were yes. The resolution aimed to make the town’s library become an official municipality of its own, with a separate library board to govern its operations. However, despite much explanation about costs and the roles in which an independent library board would play, it was ultimately voted that the Beene Pearson Public Library will not become an independent entity under Resolution 1049, despite initial approval to remove the library from the Marion County Library Board back in June.
Resolution 1051, presented to the board under new business by City Administrator Michael Hudson, regarded the clarification of policies pertaining to the private usage of city-owned equipment and materials. It was stated the city has a code of ethics in place that restricts and/or outright prohibits the use of certain facilities and equipment for private gain. Under Section 1-407 of municipal code, any municipal employee or official is forbidden from utilizing city facilities or supplies for personal use, whether authorized or willingly. All personnel are also not allowed unless authorized under legitimate lease or through a contract given by the governing body of the community.
Under Section 4-228, it is also stated that the use of city owned vehicles is restricted for private use. Any unauthorized or willing usage of any city vehicles or equipment for personal gain would violate all code of ethics regarding the use of city structures and equipment.
“I can tell you that moving forward, anyone who violates this policy will be reprimanded and brought before this board,” stated Hudson.
In addition to the resolution, Michael stated new GPS systems for all city trucks were ordered. He also mentioned the process to install new security cameras across all city-owned buildings has begun. And when asked if whether all city vehicles already have GPS systems installed, Michael noted all previous systems were forcefully removed or not properly functioning anymore.
Resolution 1051 was unanimously approved by the Board of Mayor & Commissioners in South Pittsburg, with it now officially in effect under the town’s code of ethics.