Meeting Minutes
The Town of Anderson, Texas
3-8-18
Members Present: Gail Sowell, Mayor; Alderwomen: Erna Freeman, Carol DeBose, Karen McDuffie; Aldermen: Joe Boudreaux, Harold Minor
Anderson Attorney Present: Michael R. Casaretto
Visitors Present: Cindy Bell, Carnell Carrell, William Smith, Christy Smith, Jenna Blinn, Daryl Alford, Brett Mize, Kyle Childress, Tom Johanson
Called to order at 7:00 pm
Remarks of visitors:
Cindy Bell stated that an independent film company would be in Anderson taking shots around town. They are looking for 2 older gentlemen to have a small part. She also offered for all candidates to have a forum at her place at their convenience.
Kyle Childress reminded council he was waiting for a meeting with Paul Cassidy to discuss plans. Anderson Baptist Church will be doing work at 125 College St. and wanted to make sure he didn’t need additional permits. Council assured him that the demolition permit was all that was needed.
Christy Smith stated that she is disappointed in the town’s support of local business. She also could not find information about coming elections on the town’s website. She asked about a chance for people to discuss concerns regarding where this Historic Town of Anderson is going.
Brett Mize discussed the importance of preserving the historic buildings in town. He expressed how it improved the value of the neighborhood in Houston when he fought to preserve the historical buildings.
Agenda Items:
Mayor Sowell asked council to review the minutes. Joe Boudreaux made a motion to accept minutes. Carol DeBose seconded the motion. All approved; the motion passed.
Mayor Sowell discussed the Citizen Participation Plan that needed to be reviewed. Erna Freeman made motion to adopt. Joe Boudreaux seconded the motion. All approved; the motion passed.
Karen McDuffie made a motion to accept the Inter-Jurisdictional Emergency Management Program. Joe Boudreaux seconded the motion. All approved; the motion passed.
Mayor Sowell discussed plans for the April 7th Clean Up day. Karen McDuffie suggested food and snacks; all agreed. All agreed 9-12 was a good time. Discussion was made regarding complaints around town. Michael Casaretto explained the concerns. The first two complaints regarding parking along the courthouse and messy side of the County Clerks building were a county issue. Erna Freeman asked that a letter be sent to the local judge. D&A Auto has tires building up, vehicles, mowing is needed. The house on Hwy 90 identified as Mary Love’s property was torn down but not cleaned up. The Calhoun trailer off 90 also needs to be cleaned up. The Harbour house off Main is in disrepair, two travel trailers, mowing is needed, and junked vehicles. Also, the house on the corner of Woodward and College Street was burned down and debris and trash are building up. A resident also complained about the house next door that was ebffect by the fire. It needs to be removed also. New complaint regarding the Whitaker home may cause flooding. Joe Boudreaux will get with Harry Walker to see the best alternative.
There are no pending permits.
Mayor Sowell asked council to review the invoices for payment. Erna Freeman made a motion to approve payment of the bills. Joe Boudreaux seconded. Karen McDuffie questioned the cost of computer programs. No changes were needed. All approved; motion carried.
Mayor Sowell commented on how nice 125 College Street is looking. She also stated that all the lights should be repaired now. Karen McDuffie asked if we could check with Entergy about putting plugs in the polls along Main Street.
Meeting was adjourned 8:18 pm.
