By Carol Wyatt
CHIPLEY – Chipley City Council convened for the first time in the newly renovated council chambers of Chipley City Hall Tuesday, April 13. The council reports that while some punch-list items such as a citizens’ podium, gavel, and microphones remain on order, they are glad to be back “home” after flood damage following Hurricane Sally forced the City administrative offices to relocate in September 2020.
Chief on the Council’s agenda was to posthumously honor David Salter, who was well-known for his thousands of hours spent mentoring Washington County’s youth, efforts which spanned more the two decades of dedication as a coach, umpire, and volunteer. Several of Salter’s family members were on hand at the meeting as Jim Trawick Park’s Field 5 was officially renamed by a City of Chipley Proclamation as “David Salter Field.”
In other business, Councilman Kevin Russell questioned Code Enforcement concerning what is commonly known as the “Coggin
properties” which were recently demolished at the corner of Highway 77 and Highway 90. Russell stressed the properties had not been demolished in accordance with the demolition agreement and asked Code Enforcement Officer Tamara Donjuan to enforce the agreement, which requires that the property to be demolished down to the dirt and grassed. Donjuan is expected to give an update on this issue next month.
The council awarded a bid for the 7th Street resurfacing project to Roberts and Roberts in the amount of $515,427. Concern was raised from the audience regarding lack of proper drainage for the projects, with Mayor Tracy Andrews taking note of the concerns for future reference.
Councilmember Linda Cain requested that Police Chief Scott Thompson address the ongoing issue of loud music on the north end of town. Chief Thompson reported one arrest has been made, and officers will be monitoring and enforcing the issue.
Finally, due to the cancellation of the CityÂ’s workshop last week, the council did not hear the customary department head reports; however, Public Works Director Guy Lane asked for permission to address the council about the idea of outsourcing the rest of the cityÂ’s building and grounds maintenance due to Public Works currently being down three positions. Lane is gathering the information requested by the council and is expected to bring the issue back before the council members in May.
Chipley City Council will meet again in a workshop at 5 p.m., Thursday, May 5.
Staff Report 
Jim Saunders