By Tiffany Flournoy
SPRINGHILL, La. — The Springhill City Council approved several measures affecting city operations and finances during its regular monthly meeting Monday, including a decision that will increase a basic service cost for residents.
One of the most notable actions was a $5 increase in the city’s garbage collection rate, approved after council members unanimously voted to amend a resolution adjusting sanitation fees.
Under the change, the monthly garbage pickup fee will rise from $20 to $25, reflecting increased landfill disposal fees passed down from Knights Services, the city’s waste management provider. It is unclear when residents will see the increase reflected on their bills. A representative with the city told the Webster Parish Journal that the change is expected soon and could possibly take effect as early as March.
“We are just trying to collect the money that we have to turn around and pay Knights Services,” Mayor Ray Huddleston said during the meeting. “Because of their increases, we have to increase.”
In other business, the council unanimously approved the city’s January bills, totaling $93,827.83.
Council members also voted unanimously to approve a recommendation from Police Chief Will Lynd to change a police department employee’s status from full-time to part-time.
The council approved authorization for the mayor to enter into a cooperative endeavor agreement with the Webster Parish School Board involving the donation of city-owned property. The move is contingent upon final recommendations from the city attorney.
The meeting included discussion of the city’s recent Mardi Gras celebration, which drew approximately 3,000 attendees, according to the Main Street department. Officials noted the large turnout boosted local activity and increased business traffic throughout the area.
City leaders commended municipal employees for their preparation and response to Winter Storm Fern, noting that Springhill experienced no utility outages during the event. The mayor and council members also thanked the police department for maintaining operations throughout the
Community announcements included the North Webster Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet, scheduled for April 9 at the Springhill Civic Center.
Another announcement highlighted the upcoming 15th North Webster Black History Parade, scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 14, at 1 p.m. If postponed due to rain, the parade will tentatively be held the following Saturday. This year’s grand marshal is Rachel Akrong.
Parade lineup will begin at 11 a.m. at the former Springhill High School. The parade will travel down Highway 371 South, turn right onto Vine Street, and conclude at the West Side Community Center, where family activities, food, and festivities will be held.