Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Council discussed fire station; what to do about stray dogs

Decisions on the new fire station and animal control dominated the Prescott City Council's regular monthly meeting.

On July 15, 2002, the City Council met, beginning the night by looking over the revised budget. The budget is presented to the council two to three times yearly to monitor expenses and allow for needed money in certain areas. The council reviewed the budget and passed it with few questions asked.

The new fire station committee then stated its decision to place the new station on a lot beside Central Baptist Church on east 2nd Street. The council approved purchase of the lot for $15,000 and Prescott Mayor Howard Taylor said, "It will be a good location."

However, Park Manager Steve Crow, did not agree. Later in the meeting Crow addressed the council on the reasons behind the new station.

He said he had been under the impression the station would not be a fire station but a parks building, with a fire truck garage attached.

The council stated when plans were drawn up for the station a decision would be announced if the parks station would be included or allowed a building closer to the park.

The animal ordinance committee presented its plan for the new animal control situation in Prescott. The ordinance discussed dealt mostly with the roaming, disruptive noises, and welfare of animals in the community.

The committee stressed the ordinance cannot be passed until there is a public hearing. The hearing, which will allow the public to review and have feedback on the ordinance, will be announced at a later date.

Vicki Roberts, Humane Society, announced to the council another clinic for animals might be available in the fall or next spring.

Howard Cummings briefly addressed the council due to an eyesore on Highway 24. He stated, however, council members were addressing his problem, and he was going to refrain from his planned comments.

Jon Chadwell, executive director of the Prescott-Nevada County Economic Development Office, gave his regular update.

Chadwell introduced members of the Leadership Class. The class has been assigned to sit in on any county meetings, such as city councils and Quorum Court.

Chadwell updated the council on the ACE programs. He discussed 11 groups with three to four goals.

Chadwell said the depot museum restoration project is underway. He said furniture has been refinished and cabinets added.

Chadwell said an original wall from the building would be used possibly in the conference room.

Pocket parks in the city are also coming along. The bid process has been going slow due to contact, Chadwell said another bid may be in the works if the above bid does not contact him soon.

Chadwell said one pocket park will have a stage for local talent to preform, adding as talent preforms businesses can stay open later to attract more customers.

Chadwell discussed a possible loan the city could take out for the building of the new fire station. The state offers a Facility Loan which allows cities to pay it back for up to 30 years. The loan, however, will require the plans of an architect, which is not budgeted in the loan amount.

Chadwell told the council more prospects are arriving in Prescott this month. One prospect has already visited, while another is planning to visit later in the month.

The council plans on reviewing an ordinance for beatification in the city. The ordinance will discuss curbside trash bins.