The Caledonia Board of Alderman on Tuesday continued their debate on allowing dogs in public parks.
Mayor Bill Lawrence brought up the idea of banning dogs in the parks during May’s aldermen meeting. He told the board that residents continue to complain about dog droppings and that signs advising people to clean up after their pets are posted in vain.
On Tuesday, Lawrence presented the board an ordinance that would ban all animals, leashed or not, from Caledonia town parks. Immediately, concerns were raised by alderman and residents in attendance alike about the fate of the traditional “Pet Parade” during Caledonia Days in October. A provision was added to the ordinance that pets will be allowed in the parks exclusively on the Saturday of the Pet Parade every year. After half an hour of discussion, no action was taken.
The board did approve $1,150 in entertainment deposits for performers during Caledonia Days. Tami McCool, coordinator of Caledonia Days, said she dropped off a grant request with the Columbus-Lowndes Convention and Visitors’ Bureau and is waiting to hear back.
In other business
The board approved the purchase of a John Deere tractor-mower to maintain city parks and play fields. The tractor will be bought from a state contractor and cost $24,423. Ten cases of mosquito repellent spray were purchased for $1,999.
Parks and Recreation director Lisa Mims requested the board approve the Adult Softball League for churches and businesses. Mims said that the town breaks even financially from the league, which charges $150 per team.
“I think it would be a great thing for the town,” Lawrence said.
Alderman Steve Honnoll motioned to approve the league. It was unanimously approved. Honnoll also motioned to approve the Parks and Rec department to pursue a tournament for youth baseball and softball that could potentially bring 12 youth teams from around the area to Caledonia’s fields. The motion was unanimously approved.
The board voted to make Lawrence its voting delegate at the Mississippi Municipal League. Alderman Bill Darnell was named alternate.
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