News Editor

The Troy City Council made the final decision to increase electricity rates by about three-tenths of a penny in the city of Troy.

The increase came after the council adopted a $30.8 million budget for the 2001-02 fiscal years. The increase is needed to offset costs, such as substations and lines. The city of Troy has not increased electricity rates in more than five years.

"We are by no means approaching the cost of electricity in other areas," Troy Mayor Jimmy Lunsford said in an earlier interview.

He said the average will be about a 4-percent increase and "other than that your minimum usage stays the same."

In other business, the council

· Signed a proclamation for Farm-City Week.

· Recognized the Liberty Riders

· Approved a lounge retail liquor license for Harvey’s under the management of Harry Alexander Laird.

Councilman Charles Meeks told Laird the council was concerned about the sale of alcohol to minors, and there had been problems in that area before.

"From time to time you will be tested to make sure you are adhering to ABC and city regulations not to sell to minors."

Council President Johnny Witherington inquired as to whether any former employees would retained or rehired at the establishment and Laird assured him that they would not.

"We hope you do well and abide by the ABC laws," Witherington said.

· Re-appointed Octavia Jones for another term on the Troy Public Library Board.

Lunsford reported safety improvements at the Troy Municipal Airport are underway including clearing for the fencing project. The downtown construction project is also underway.

"The downtown project is a tough one to complete," Lunsford said. "The businesses are staying open and are doing a good job. I’ve heard no complaints and the project should be complete by Christmas."

The mayor also invited everyone to attend the Brown Bag Lunch on the Square at noon Oct. 16 when the new gazebo will be dedicated.