fire safety program

By BETH LAKEY

Staff Writer

Sept. 11, 2000 10 PM

Pike County fire fighters asked the Pike County Commission for some financial assistance Monday night.

Johnny Gibson of the Pike County Fire Fighters Association told the commissioners about a project they are trying to finance so they can better educate youth about fire safety.

Last year, the association started raising money to purchase a fire safety house because they knew the cost could be anywhere from $16,000 to $28,000.

Since then, members have been looking at two used fire safety houses in communities planning to buy larger ones. The cost of a used one is about $14,000 and the association is only about halfway to the purchase after having raised $7,500.

Gibson said the structure will be used during safety presentations at schools and community events. His hopes were to have one by the second week of October, which is Fire Prevention Week.

"This will enhance our (fire safety) program," Gibson told the commissioners.

After asking for their financial assistance, Gibson touched on another matter ­ building code enforcement.

Each year, communities are rated and those ratings directly affect insurance premiums.

Although Pike County communities get at least a nine, Gibson said attempts are being made to lower those because "the lower the better."

Code enforcement, he said, will help.

"We’re to the point where this is really hurting us on our rating," Gibson said.

He said having a building inspector will save the residents money, plus better insure their safety.

During the meeting, commissioners:

· Passed a resolution and entered into an agreement to participate in the Joint Bidding Program for Counties. The concept is to order equipment in larger quantities so the price is lower.

County engineer Herb Huner said plans are to bid a mower/grader, front end loader, backhoe and road signs, this year.

· Tabled decision on a bid for a new excavator. Bids are good for 45 days.

· Appointed Lorenzo Baker, Sue Daniels and Gail Jones to the Pike County Building Authority, which will handle matters regarding the courthouse renovations.

· Approved travel requests to the American Association of Retirement Communities Annual Conference Oct. 30 through Nov. 1 and the Legislative and Government Relations Seminar Oct. 18-19.

· Renewed the computer maintenance contract with S&W Minicomputers. The Probate and Revenue Commission Offices are currently using the company’s services.

· Entered into a $27,740 contract for three beds at the Lee County Youth Development Center. The contract is for 1,095 days of care. Payment will be made in quarterly installments of $6,936.

· Decided to pay $300 for a float in the Pike County Chamber of Commerce/Troy State University Parade.

· Tabled the decision on a contract for security services until commissioners can meet with representatives of the companies. The current contract expires Sept. 30.

· Tabled appointments to the Department of Human Resources Board and East Central mental Health Board.

· Approved a request by Commissioner Karen Berry to rename County Road 250 as Oak Grove Road.