The council approved a bid to conduct improvements to the elevated water tower at the city barn.
City Engineer Brooks Wallace said there are four elevated tanks in the city, but two have received rehabilitation work within the last several years.
Out of the four companies that picked up a bid packet, two turned in bids, Tank Pro Inc. and Utility Services Co. Inc.
According to a bid tabulation provided to council members, Tank Pro turned in a bid of $157,884, while Utility Services turned in a bid of $192,600. Wallace said the estimated cost to conduct the work was about $150,000, which will entail sanding and putting a new coat of paint on the inside and outside of the tank. When complete the work will give the tank another 15 years of life, Wallace said.
Work to conduct similar work on the fourth tank will take place during the next or following fiscal year, Wallace said.
The council approved the bid from Tank Pro.
In another matter during the meeting, the council approved a motion to sell a helmet and badge to retired fire department Battalion Chief Darren Dennis for $1. Just before the council approved the motion, a member of the audience stepped up to pay the dollar.
The council also approved a motion to “authorize the general and absolute release by and between Pete Amadeo and the city of Picayune.” Farmer said the motion was to help local business Fatty’s, recoup costs associated with parking lot damage incurred when the city repaired a water leak.
Rev. John Goss addressed the council to thank the police department for their professional efforts in the capture and removal of a baby alligator from a drainage feature in the Goodyear Community. Goss said the officer stayed on the scene until the animal was successfully captured.
Councilor Tammy Valente took a moment to commend Public Works Director Eric Morris. She said that during a recent conversation with a soon to be community member the woman described Morris as professional and cordial.
The council will hold a special meeting on June 9 at 10 a.m.
Their recessed meeting is still planned for June 16 at 5 p.m.