Grayville commissioners have given first-reading approval to creating a combined Economic Development Coordinator and Police Department Administrative Assistant position.
The proposal generated most of the discussion during Monday night’s brief meeting. Resident Ina Sneed questioned how much time would be devoted to each role and suggested economic development should receive greater emphasis.
Mayor Travis Thompson said responsibilities would depend on which needs are most pressing. He said combining the positions is largely related to how the job will be funded and would also allow Police Chief Mason Siegel to spend more time on law enforcement duties rather than administrative work associated with the SAFE-T Act, body-camera footage and other state requirements.
Thompson said the combined position is a starting point and expressed hope that economic development efforts could eventually grow enough to require additional staffing.
New City Treasurer Vanessa Fullop also presented the treasurer’s report and, in Arlynne Davis’ absence, reviewed the city’s audit findings. Both were unanimously accepted. Commissioner Scott Browning questioned an audit finding involving compliance with water and sewer operation and maintenance funds. Fullop said she would seek additional information from Davis.
In other business, commissioners approved a resolution for the city’s Christmas parade November 28 from 6 to 7 p.m. and granted Chappy’s a special liquor license for an October 3 cornhole tournament.
New Commissioner Connor Neeley was appointed to the Police Committee.
Commissioners also approved a $50,000 TIF request for Grayville schools to help replace windows at the elementary, junior high and high schools. Thompson said the funding is included in the city’s budget. The overall window project is estimated to cost more than $161,500.