Staff Writer

Feb. 8, 2000 10 PM

The Troy City Council is considering an increase in salaries for the mayor and council members.

Mayor Jimmy Lunsford is conducting comparison studies of surrounding municipalities before a final decision is made.

"I do believe the salaries should be concentric with those of surrounding communities," Lunsford said.

He said it is this administration’s duty to set the salaries for the next administration. Changes must be passed six months prior to the election, which is in August.

Lunsford said he will make recommendations at the council’s next meeting.

Currently, the mayor’s annual salary is $40,000 and council members make $6,000 per year.

Those salaries have remained the same ­ other than the 2 percent raises made across the board ­ since 1985.

"Our employees that work for the City of Troy are considered every year," Lunsford said, adding the mayor and council have not received cost of living raises since 1985.

In other business, the council:

· Held a public hearing regarding a law enforcement block grant.

Troy Police Chief Anthony Everage said the department is applying for a $15,835 grant, which requires a $1,770.50 match.

Under the guidelines, a public hearing must be held to notify the public of what the money will be used for in the police department.

Everage said the money will be used for equipment, especially means of public awareness.

The Department of Justice does outline what grant money can not be spent on, such as bulletproof vests.

Everage said the department has just over $7,223 left over from grant money received in 1999.

· Adopted Resolution 427, which outlines the policies and procedures relating to the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Lunsford said the city has to periodically update its policies and procedures so the ability to get federal funding is not put in jeopardy.

· Took into consideration a request for a Soap Box Derby in Troy.

Nancy Brooks addressed the council regarding the $760 licensing fee and supplying police protection and closing a street for the proposed event.

In order to be able to participate in the national Soap Box Derby, the local event must be held by June 17. It also takes a couple of months to get the kits, making it necessary for a quick decision, Brooks said.

· Tabled a liquor license for Marriot Services’ catering. Marriot has applied for a home premise license through the ABC Board.