Article by Emily Wang, White River Now
The Southside City Council met last week to discuss a range of municipal issues, including the recent heavy rains and updates on the alcohol tax.
Following heavy rainfall, council members addressed ongoing efforts to clear clogged culverts and leaf buildup across the city. Mayor Ray Bowman said the county had received multiple calls for assistance and noted that the city’s lack of a leaf truck results in lower taxes for residents. The council agreed to assess affected areas and consider additional signage.
Private club ordinance and alcohol tax
The council revisited an ordinance passed last month regarding private clubs, clarifying that tax collections on Backwoods, a local establishment, started Friday (Feb. 14). The original ordinance did not specify an effective date. Still, officials adjusted it to align with the start of the next quarter.
Additionally, the council approved a motion to begin collecting fees for alcohol sales starting April 1. Bowman emphasized the importance of ensuring the collection process follows proper protocol.
Planning commission and property matters
The council approved a recommendation from the Planning Commission requiring a 10-foot setback for side streets on an Exxon property land dedication.
Officials also discussed the recent bid opening for a vacant house at 2470 Batesville Blvd. No bids were received, prompting the council to consider demolition or salvaging valuable materials. Some members voiced concerns about wasting usable items, such as bricks, doors, and windows.
“With the price of houses so high, I would think somebody would salvage those bricks,” one council member said.
The council decided to reopen bidding for the property until April 1. If no offers are received, officials will proceed with an itemized list of salvageable materials for auction. For more information, visit cityofsouthside.org.
A public hearing for a property rezoning request will be held at the next Southside City Council meeting, scheduled for March 11.
Image: White River Now
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