The Grayville City Council held a special meeting Tuesday morning to consider a Revolving Loan Request from The Smokin’ Pig, a popular local business known for hiring and mentoring area youth. Commissioners Chris James and Don Baldwin were absent, but the meeting moved quickly, with the loan request as the sole agenda item.
During the brief five-minute session, Treasurer Sharon Walden voiced strong support for the loan, emphasizing The Smokin’ Pig’s positive impact on the community. “The Smokin’ Pig hires a lot of our young people… Look at the crowds it pulls into Grayville. These customers might buy a tank of gas, wash the dirt off their car, or drive down and look at our depot,” Walden said. “The city of Grayville should help The Smokin’ Pig with a short term low-interest loan. Let’s help a family member of Grayville.”
The council discussed how the loan would enable owner Bunting to consolidate three existing loans, saving the business between $1,000 and $2,000 per month. Commissioner Scott Browning made the motion to approve the loan, Commissioner Andi Ford seconded, and Mayor Travis Thompson joined in support.
While The Smokin’ Pig has withdrawn its request to begin liquor sales at 10 a.m. on Sundays, the new loan approval is expected to provide significant financial relief and continued growth for the business and the Grayville community.