News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
Monterey Aldermen discussed Monday night what could be done about getting a code officer for the town, to address poor building issues across the community.
Aldermen Amy Martin initiated the discussion, noting several fires in recent years in poor-condition buildings. Martin said the town still uses the county for code inspectors and she is concerned many buildings have not been inspected as often as they should. Aldermen Jim Wolfgram said the town needs a code inspector badly.
“Several properties have been closed like the hospital and the hotel,” Wolfgram said. “We are in sad need of a codes officer. I don’t think anyone disagrees with that.”
Aldermen Alex Garcia said the town has tried hiring a codes inspector in years past but has not had any luck.
“We have put the position out multiple times,” Garcia said. “And nobody has answered that call that is qualified, let’s put it that way.”
Monterey Cultural Administrator Rafferty Cleary suggested to the aldermen to contact the UCDD Deputy Director of Planning and Community Development Tommy Lee. Cleary said he knows Lee has had discussions to develop a codes enforcement commission.
“We might can make a phone call to Tommy Lee and see how that’s progressing,” Cleary said. “That was a recent conversation and something they are having serious discussions about down there because it’s not just an issue we are facing this is all over.”
Garcia said the town has made partnership efforts with other cities to try and hire a code officer to make it a full-time position and have still failed to hire someone.
In other business, Aldermen approved the low bid of $24,250 for a drop shed from Troyer Post Buildings for the city garage. Farley said this will be an add-on to the current garage and will allow them to get more vehicles protected from the weather. The town budgeted to purchase the shed in the current fiscal year budget. Farley said the shed came in under budget.
Aldermen approved changing the zoning classification of property off of Monterey Hwy from R-1 residential district to C-2 General Commercial District. The property is located to the right just off of I-40 Exit 300 and is roughly a single acre.
The closing of Depot Street from South Poplar Street to South Holley Street on August 17 approved. The road will be closed 10am-2pm for a vintage car show.
