Lepanto Council extends rent free agreement for daycare

The Lepanto city council discussed Grace Place Child Care center at their regular meeting on Jan. 19. Bro. Anthony Langley of First Baptist Church presented a financial report for the center.

"If we had to pay rent, the daycare would have to move back to the church," said Langley.

However, with the center being open it is an asset to the community by employing nine people. The place has an enrollment of 22 students and can handle up to 30. The center is still accepting students and is currently working on receiving children with the government voucher program.

The First Baptist Church is currently assisting the day care with operational funds. They are doing lots of maintenance and upkeep on the building also.

The Grace Place center requested an extension on their current arrangement with the city. The council voted unanimously to keep the daycare center at the current location and extend their current agreement.

After the unfinished business was settled, the mayor called an executive session for the council members. For nearly 45 minutes, the council discussed the reasons why Mayor Wright let go of Chief of Police John Davis.

"The council agreed with my reasons and voted unanimously with my decision," said Mayor Wright.

The council accepted the minutes and financial statements from last month.

In the Dec. 15 meeting, council members discussed the controlled burn ban in the city. Mayor Kevin Wright informed the council that ADEQ had informed him that the city could have a controlled burn on houses as long as it is done was a training exercises for the fire department and we have an asbestos clearance.

"I had spoken with a gentleman who is interested in tearing down houses for the material," said Mayor Wright. "I'm presently talking to him about several houses in town."

Other unfinished business discussed was the proposed operating budget. The council did not voice any changes and approved the budget unanimously.

Also there was an increase in the water rates.

"There was no feedback on the rate increase in the public meeting held prior to the city counsel meeting," said Mayor Wright.

At that time, Attorney Noyl Houston read aloud the Ordinance increasing water rates. The council also agreed to accept this ordinance.