City may turn to state for help with livestock

The Clarendon Board of Aldermen met October 9 in regular session and heard from representatives of the Texas Department of Health regarding public safety issues.

TDH officials John Huss and Robert Badger discussed health issues related to livestock being kept in populated areas. TDH can use state ordinances to protect the public safety regardless of what actions have been taken by municipal authorities. Also, TDH authority is not limited by city boundaries.

Clarendon has had difficultly enforcing its livestock ordinance, and local officials may utilize the TDH to crack down on residents keeping livestock in the city when that situation endangers public health.

In other city business, Kelly Hill requested the city close or fence the non-developed streets between Blocks 72, 81, and 89 in the West End Addition of the city.

Alderman Michael Tibbets moved, seconded by Alderman Smiley Johnson, to close Leroy and Cottage streets and the alleys in the aforementioned area. Tibbets and Johnson voted “aye,” Aldermen Mac Stavenhagen and Billy Jack Land voted “no.” Mayor Tex Selvidge voted “aye.” Stavenhagen expressed concern over the possible future development of land north of Hill’s and future access to that area.

Sheriff Butch Blackburn presented the contract for police protection to the board. The contract, identical to last year’s, was adopted unanimously. The deal will cost the city $100,000 and runs through September of 2002.

The municipal judge contract with Jimmy Johnson was also approved with no changes.

Following a closed session, the board agreed to promote City Clerk Linda Smith to the position of City Secretary effective December 15, 2001, with a salary increase after a six-month probationary period.

Applications for City Clerk were reviewed, and one applicant – Wanda Smith – was interviewed. The board voted on the salary for the clerk’s position.

The aldermen met again Monday evening, October 15, and interviewed ten applicants for city clerk. Alderman Bob Watson said the board narrowed the field to four candidates and will take up the matter again next Monday.