Fresh off the volleyball court, FHS ninth grader Belle Johnson came before Fairfield City Council on Tuesday, August 23rd to request use facilities at the fairgrounds for a Youth Revival in October. Belle was accompanied by her mother, Misty Johnson, and teacher, Betsy Monico, who are assisting in her in this endeavor.
This poised young lady shared her vision for a 48-hour praise revival that would encompass different people and churches from the area. “We just want to worship together and be able connect with people in the community who have lost their faith and help rebuild their faith,” she said.
According to Belle, several churches in Fairfield have agreed to help, along with many friends and family who have signed on to volunteer during the event.
The Tent revival would be held October 21-23, 2016. Although this is the same weekend as Fairfield Market Days, coordinator Darlene Jones has welcomed the event, according to Belle.
The council was also informed that security for the event is being secured.
The vote was unanimous for allowing use of the fairgrounds for The Tent youth revival, with Mayor Roy Hill stating the City would assist in any way they could.
In other business, City Administrator Jeff Looney presented information on the proposed property tax rate.
With a tax rate of .3488 for the last three year, the City of Fairfield has enjoyed one of the lowest tax rates in the surrounding area. Mexia, Teague and Wortham, for example, have a tax rate that is more that twice as high.
Referencing recent meetings with residents of Oak Forest subdivision, which the City has explored for possible annexation, Mayor Hill relays that the biggest concern is higher tax rates.
“They will be watching us like a hawk,” he said, in his argument for keeping rates at the same level.
An additional public hearing on the tax rate will be held September 1st with the final adoption expected when the Council meets September 13, 2016.
The property of Leroy Smith, at 1337 S. Bateman, was discussed for possible action.
The City has been working with the owner to get the dilapidated property up to code. However, all options have since been rejected, as the owner has stated he cannot afford them.
At the suggested of Councilman Randy Johnson, Looney has been directed to discover possible programs available through the Army Corps of Engineers to assist with the clean up.
Officer Sean Frasier of Fairfield Police Association presented plans to sponsor a “National Night Out” for the City of Fairfield.
This event is held throughout the nation on the first Tuesday in October.
Frazier envisions a county-wide event that would include all law enforcement, emergency responders and volunteer fire departments. The event would feature youth activities and community interaction.
With a proposed budget of just over $5,000, Frasier requested assistance from the council. “We would be grateful for whatever you could do,” he said.
“This is a worthwhile thing,” said Councilman Kirgan. “But, I’m not sure where the money will come from.”
Although the council did not approve funds during the meeting, Councilman David Steward relayed that he knew of some private donors who might could assist with the event.
In their last item for the regular meeting, Council approved purchasing pumpkin decorations from local vendor, Ben Cooper of Cooper Farms.
“He is excited about it,” says Looney, who complimented last year’s work in building the pumpkin house on the courthouse square.
“The pumpkin house was a huge hit last year,” says Looney.
Following an hour-long executive session, a Budget Workshop was called to order that same evening at 8:00 p.m. Up for discussion was a possible paid Fire Department.
Two additional budget workshops are set this week: Tuesday, August 30th at 6:00 p.m. and Thursday, September 1st at 6:30 p.m.
Karen Leidy reporting.
