City of Quitman

Mayor Steve Watkins vetoed the board's motion to dissolve the Quitman Historic Downtown-Mill District. The mayor cited concerns about the lack of public notice and comment, potential loss of Certified Local Government status and grant funding, and the impact on property tax abatements. He emphasized the importance of the Historic Preservation Commission and the need for guidance from the Mississippi Department of Archives and History before dissolving the district.

The meeting addressed various issues, including property maintenance hearings resulting in extensions for some properties, condemnation procedures for others, and the scheduling of an initial hearing for another. Bids were reviewed and approved for library air conditioning, windows for the municipal building, fiber and telephone systems, a boardroom sound system, ceramic tile, and floor tile installation. The 2020 real and personal tax rolls and the 2020-2021 Municipal Compliance Questionnaire were adopted. A Christmas parade was approved, while the Mardi Gras parade was tabled. A request for a partnership with the Manuel Goff Center was denied. Approval was given for a septic system installation, and a new employee was hired for the Street Department. A proposal for blessing boxes was tabled, and authorization was given to file a Notice of Intent with the Mississippi Department of Archives & History. The cleaning of ditches and the relocation of a stop sign were also discussed. Finally, the installation of a light on a welcome sign was approved, and monthly claims and expenses were paid.

The meeting addressed various topics, including the introduction of a potential new employee for the Water/Sewer Department, approval of a quote for an air conditioning unit for the recreational complex concession stand, and the granting of a temporary variance for Great Southern Bank to place a modular building. A water leak adjustment was approved, and a decision was made to exchange the Confederate Memorial Holiday for Good Friday. Updates were given on the city building project and an emergency declaration. Discussions included city events, a SWOT analysis, and various financial matters such as TIFF bond payments, regular monthly claims and expenses, and payments related to CDBG grants and engineering invoices. Departmental reports covered administration, police, streets/garbage/parks, and water/sewer. The meeting concluded with announcements and adjournment.