By Shannon Wright
The Sibley Town Council held its regular monthly meeting Monday, October 12, approving a resolution authorizing the purchase of a new Exmark mower.
Resolution No. 14-2026 provides for the purchase to be funded through the Webster Parish Police Jury’s annual allotment to the town. Any cost exceeding that allotment, if any, will be paid from the town’s own funds.
Mayor Robert Smart expressed appreciation for the Police Jury’s continued financial support, noting that the funding helps the town maintain its roadsides and public areas.
“I’m very appreciative of the funding that the Police Jury helps us with,” Smart said. “This goes a long way in helping us keep the road ditches mowed throughout the town as well as other areas.”
Smart said the town’s current mowers have served the community for years, but getting a new one has become increasingly important.
“These mowers last many years, but we are currently operating on borrowed time with the two that we currently have,” Smart said.
Residents are also reminded that Sibley remains under a burn ban until further notice, according to the fire department. Although the area has received some rainfall, the restriction remains in effect.
Smart and aldermen recently attended the Small-Town Mayors Alliance meeting in Many and brought back some valuable information that they hope to implement in Sibley.
During the meeting, residents also spoke positively about the women serving on the town’s maintenance crew, recognizing the pride they take in their work and the difference it makes in keeping Sibley beautiful.
The town is also looking for help preserving its local history. Town Clerk Sherry McCann is asking residents to donate or share photographs, yearbooks and other items related to Sibley’s past as the town works to build a collection that can be enjoyed by future generations.
McCann emphasized that residents do not have to part with their original photographs to contribute. She will make copies of submitted photos so the originals can be returned to their owners.
“I really want one of the hotel that was back there on Natchitoches if anyone has one,” McCann said, referring to a historic hotel that once stood in the area.
Residents who have old photographs, yearbooks or other items documenting Sibley’s history are encouraged to contact McCann at Town Hall.
Sibley Town Council meetings are held at 6 p.m. on the second Monday of each month at Town Hall. All residents are welcome and encouraged to attend.