Argo City Council passes budget for fiscal year

Published 8:00 am Wednesday, January 22, 2014

The 2013-2014-budget proposal for the city of Argo was passed at this week’s meeting. The budget passed with a vote of three to two. Councilwomen Bradley and Brown voted no because they felt there were still amendments to be made before the budget passed. In sync with the night’s discussion of finances, the council voted on several raises for the fire department staff, the police chief and the city clerk as well. 

In other news:

– The Argo police arrested two men for forged prescriptions that they attempted to use at Argo Pharmacy and Gifts. The men had warrants out in multiple counties for similar offenses.

– The fire department was awarded $1,000.

– Road patches will begin around the city starting next week. Councilwoman Bradley said that she was receiving two to three road complaints every day and was glad to see the work get underway. 

– The St. Clair County Commission gave Argo a check for $1,000. This money is hoped to go to ease finances in the construction of a community park. The park’s playground equipment, mulch and construction were discussed at Monday night’s meeting. Council members are currently looking at a state bid list as well as grants for park constructions. 

– The City of Argo went into lease with Crazy Horse Restaurant located on Gadsden Highway. This commercial lease was unanimously approved. 

– The council added a few things that will be discussed in upcoming meetings as well. This included a public meeting concerning a dog ordinance against stray, loud dogs as well as starting a new zoning board. There is also potential for discussion of a one-cent sales tax next month, which will be voted on later. Also added to the list of postponed discussion is the rewriting of the city’s employee handbook.