Council Discuss Topics

The Brandenburg City Council discussed a few topics during their regular monthly meeting Monday (2/10) night.

Annie Hamilton, Executive Director of the Meade County Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, provided information related to plans of a riverfront stop of the WW II LST-325 landing ship tank that is scheduled for September. The vessel is the only remaining operational ship of it’s kind. Plans include a four day visit for tours and explore the living history for the many in the community. Hamilton said some estimates for an event such as this could result about 20,000 visitors into Brandenburg during the four day event. Several other community events are planned around the visit which are yet to be finalized.

In the business session, the city council spent most of their time discussing proposed changes to the city sign ordinance. Among the amendments include language that would create a one year limit on sign permits. Permits would be subject to renewal if the structure was not built within the permitted year. The amendment would require registration of each off-site billboard within the city limits by the owner of the structure. Registration fees would be based upon the square footage of the sign facing. If renewal of the registration, the structure would have to be removed within thirty days of notice. A nee section related to inflatable signs or advertising devices also was introduced for consideration. After discussion, the council heard and approved the first reading of the ordinance amendment and is expected to consider the second reading at their March regular meeting.

Council members also reviewed proposal to install street lights along Howard Drive. The proposal was drafted by Meade County RECC and after review the council discussed a revisit of plans to reduce the number of light fixtures along the street. Their focus is to illuminate intersections and provide some security lighting along the street.

Police Chief Brian Hagg asked the council their opinion regarding a grant for a new police officer. If the city is approved, the grant would commit the city to hire a new officer for a four year term and allow for the individual’s training. The council encouraged the Chief to continue with his efforts.

Public Works Director T.J. Hughes reported to the council that his department has responded to several issues related to disposable wipes. He said that the products may be flush-able and convenient but they are not easy on the city’s sewer lift stations causing clogs, backups, and other issues that the equipment cannot handle. He urges the public to stop flushing such wipes down the sewer to help eliminate issues.

The Brandenburg City Council is scheduled to meet next on March 9 at 7 pm at Brandenburg City Hall.