City lifts hiring freeze
The City of Hartselle has lifted its hiring freeze after sales tax numbers released this week shows signs of an improving economy and gas prices are expected to go down in coming weeks.
The council unanimously voted to rescind the moratorium on hiring, which was passed one month ago.
City Council President Kenny Thompson said sales tax revenue increased compared to last year’s numbers five out of the last six months including last month. He also believes that the city will see a break in gasoline costs over the next few months.
“The city’s revenue numbers are up once again this month,” Thompson said. “Some of the experts are now predicting that gas prices will fall about 50 cents over the next few weeks. I feel good about lifting the hiring freeze.”
Although the item wasn’t on the agenda, Councilman Tom Chappell made the motion to lift the hiring freeze, which was seconded by Bill Smelser.
Now, the city can fill vacant positions within the police department and public works that were already included in this year’s budget as long as Mayor Dwight Tankersley and the department heads agree that the position needs to be filled and there is sufficient funding.
In other business, the council:
- awarded a $62,338 contract to Rick Hall Construction for renovations to City Hall.
- adjusted the budget to use $4,500 and $5,500 in the general and court funds to help pay for the renovations to City Hall.
- declared a state of emergency in the wake of the devastating tornadoes that hit North Alabama and portions of Morgan County. The proclamation could make Hartselle eligible to receive funding from the federal disaster area declaration.
- approved a permit for the Cotton Pickin’ BBQ Cook-Off.
- purchased a zero-turn lawn mower for Park and Recreation.
