Hornbeak studying annexation

By CHRIS MENEES
Staff Reporter
Hornbeak officials are studying an annexation plan that would basically square up the town’s boundaries.
No action was taken during the Hornbeak board of aldermen’s meeting Tuesday night, but aldermen reviewed a drawing of proposed boundaries and what could be taken into the city limits.
The areas are located all around the current city limits and include some areas along Highway 183, Webb Store Road, Short Street and the Black Oak Elementary School area.
Alderman Paul Truett said the town will need to obtain an actual count of the homes in the suggested areas and what revenue would be generated. He said those involved in the process are studying several ways to do the annexation as they try to determine what is most feasible for the town.
Alderman Leon Walden said he is “well pleased” with the work which has been done so far by those involved with the annexation proposal.
In other action during Tuesday night’s near hour-long meeting, the board:
• Learned the city is still waiting to receive its audit. City recorder Joyce Truett said she needs the audit and Mayor Pete Burpo said he will contact the firm responsible.
• Voted not to reduce delinquent taxes and to let Obion County handle taking down the dilapidated Darnell Store building on Main Street, which has been deeded to the county due to delinquent taxes. Obion County Mayor Benny McGuire said the building has been condemned by the fire marshal and ordered torn down within 90 days.
Aldermen expressed concerns over the deteriorating condition of the building and the threat it poses.
“Somebody has got to tear it down. It’s dangerous right now,” alderman Dennis Dozier said.
The property is one of several lots deeded to the county because of delinquent taxes. The properties will be discussed by the county commission when it meets Monday morning.
• Granted permission for the Hornbeak Community Club to use city facilities for a community celebration being planned for Aug. 27.
In addition, the club will be promoting a city-wide yard sale June 3-4.
• Was told the Hornbeak Volunteer Fire Department is planning to sell ribs and barbecue Memorial Day weekend, with details to be announced.
• Voted to pay several invoices, including those for the purchase of a radio and light bar for the city’s police car through a Governor’s Highway Safety Office grant; an item for the town’s First Responders from funds raised by the Hornbeak Community Club; repairs or service from Blackley’s for a fire engine, a tanker and a van; the purchase of replacement batteries from Mathis Battery for the fire department’s repeater at the water plant; and materials from Lowe’s to raise the ceiling at the fire station.
• Discussed the removal of a tree from the city cemetery and voted to allow a local man to remove the tree for the wood. Aldermen asked if the tree can possibly be removed by Memorial Day.
• Learned City Hall will be closed Friday.
Board members Christina Gray and Paula Parker were absent from Tuesday night’s meeting.

Published in The Messenger 5.11.11

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