By Shannon Wright
The Heflin Town Council met Thursday, November 5, to discuss the village budget, address an issue with the water system generator and announce an upcoming change in leadership for the Heflin Police Department.
During the meeting, council members reviewed the budget and reported that both the Village and Water Department remain in good financial standing. Projected expenditures are primarily basic, mandatory expenses, with nothing out of the ordinary anticipated at this time.
Water Operator Jessie Williams brought up an issue concerning the village’s generator to the council’s attention. Williams explained that the generator will start and run, but when the water pumps come on, it shuts down.
“We’re having issues with the generator…when the power went out last week…it’ll come on and run but when the pumps come on it shuts down,” Williams said.
Sudden Power will be coming out to perform a load bank test to determine what is causing the problem and what repairs are needed. The test will cost approximately $1,000, but getting the generator repaired is necessary.
“It’s been a good generator, I think it’s worth the money to have it fixed,” Williams said.
Council members approved moving forward with the testing.
The meeting also marked an important transition for the Heflin Police Department. Police Chief Paul Migues will be retiring at the end of this year after 32 years of service.
“The new chief is here tonight,” Migues told the council.
Scott Herrington, who is currently employed with the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office, will take over as Heflin’s new Chief of Police beginning January 1. Herrington will continue his employment with the Sheriff’s Office while also serving the Village of Heflin.
The Village will also bring back a favorite holiday tradition with its 5th Annual Christmas Decoration Competition.
Residents are encouraged to get into the Christmas spirit and participate in decorating their homes. The competition began several years ago when a young girl had the idea and the council helped turn it into a community tradition.
Residents are encouraged to watch their water bills for information regarding the date of judging of the competition.
Another change announced during the meeting involves the council’s monthly meeting schedule. Beginning in January, meetings will be held on the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m., rather than the first Thursday.
Residents are encouraged to attend Town Council meetings to stay informed about the discussions, decisions and issues affecting their community.