Aldermen hear about plans for new buildings

The Clarendon Board of Aldermen heard from two citizens during their regular meeting last Tuesday, June 12, who each plan to make improvements in the city.

Bill Cornell addressed the board regarding his plans for a new farm and ranch supply business to be built at US 287 and Orpe Street.

Cornell, the local Purina Feed dealer, told the council he hopes to have his business open before Christmas. He asked the city to maintain Orpe Street in order that he and his customers can have access to the new store. The aldermen agreed to maintain the street after Cornell’s building is erected.

Dr. John Howard addressed the board regarding his plans for a new clinic and asked the city to abate his taxes.

Howard said the present health clinic has grown from three fulltime employees to eight fulltime-equivalent employees since his arrival. He has purchased land south of the Medical Center Nursing Home and intends to break ground this summer on a new 5,000 square foot facility on that site.

The board discussed Howard’s plans and agreed the new clinic will be an important addition to the city. The aldermen voted to give the doctor a tax abatement for a period of ten years. The vote was 4-0 with Alderman Bob Watson abstaining. Watson said he was in favor of the new clinic, but being new on the board, he didn’t feel he knew enough about the abatement process to vote.

Roger Estlack presented a proposed advertisement for the city to be run in the Pioneer Edition of the Enterprise. The board approved the ad.

Don Stone spoke regarding the property at 217 E. Third Street, which burned a couple of years ago. Stone said the building was unsafe and the yard needs work. The board voted to hold a public hearing regarding a dangerous structure and notify the owner as prescribed by Ordinance No. 306.

Alderman Watson was appointed to the Clarendon Economic Development Corporation board.

City Superintendent Jim Roberts reported on the progress of the water grant and the recycling grant. Carolyn Blackerby reported on the summer reading program at the library.

The property at Wood Ave. and Jackson St. was discussed, but no action was taken as no papers were provided by the property owner or his attorney as requested previously be the board.