By DON FLETCHER
News Staff Writer
Atmore City Council made quick work Monday (July 26) of an agenda that was pared from three items to just two.
The council approved the seeking of bids for a used fire truck and gave the green light to a swap with the county healthcare authority of tiny parcels of land to bring Poarch Road’s proposed eastern extension in line with its westward portion.
The purchase of a pre-owned pumper truck was the first item of business. The council gave the measure its unanimous approval, without discussion, after Mayor Jim Staff explained the importance of the vehicle in fighting fires in rural areas.
“This is sorely needed,” Staff said. “When our firemen go outside our fire district, there’s no fire hydrants. This will give them an extra 15 minutes for everything else to get there.”
Pastor Cornelius Phillips of McCullough Christian Center was to have addressed the council on an undisclosed matter, but was unable to attend, and the matter was tabled.
Staff then asked for a resolution that would allow relocation of the extension of Poarch Road that will be done in preparation of the opening of the new urgent care facility and hospital that will be built there.
“Hopefully, this will be the last time we have to come to the Escambia County Health(care) Authority,” the mayor said. “This is to move the road further north. We’ll be swapping 9/10 an acre of property for 9/10 an acre. It’s just an even swap, so the road will be moved to where the intersection matches the red light.
Prior to adjournment, District 3 Council Member Eunice Johnson thanked the entire community for the success of the July 24 Community Fun Day.