During Tuesday afternoon’s City of Centre council meeting, Mayor Mark Mansfield brought forth Chad Steed who spoke at length about Arts in the Park. The event hasn’t been done in Cherokee County for 20 years. It will take place in Estes Park on Saturday, November 9th from 10am-2pm. There will be 16 total vendors with 14 already confirmed. It will take place under the pavilion in Estes Park. This special event will have a Christmas theme with Santa Claus and many Christmas decorations. Steed was asking for a $1,000 dollar donation. This was unanimously approved by Council.
The quarterly reports were given from the Department Supervisors.
Building Inspector Raymond Matthews spoke at length about the total activity from July-September 2024, which was the third quarter. The construction costs were $ 5,306,952. Matthews said great things are coming to Centre and the future looks bright.
Fire Chief Robert Pace told the Council there were 171 calls this quarter. The average response time was 8:01 for the quarter.
Police Chief Kirk Blankenship informed the Council from July until September there were 123 arrests and 26 wrecks, which is down 16 from the last quarter. He is very happy with everyone within the Centre Police Department.
Director of Parks and Recreation Jay Wilson told the Council the Aquatic Center was outstanding all summer long. There have been many repairs. The new soccer season has begun with 150 registered. There is a new parking lot at Yarbrough Park also.
Next up, Street and Sanitation Supervisor Bobby Paul told the Council mowing has been slow with no growth. The garbage truck is outstanding and working out great. They are repairing Christmas decorations. He said they’re busy getting ready for the upcoming year.
Next on the agenda, the Council discussed Trunk or Treat, which is Halloween on a Thursday. The Council approved $3,500 for candy.
The Council approved a PCA Pickleball Tournament at Centre Park. This will take place on October 19th from 8am-3pm.
The Council also approved a time change in their regular work sessions from 4 pm to 4:30 pm. The time change will take place in the next meeting.
In closing, Mayor Mansfield was very happy how the Fall Festival turned out and praised all the City of Centre employees.
The next City of Centre Council meeting will be October 22nd.