Bell-Whitley and Pineville had initially agreed to jointly pay an economic developer to assist both organizations. The total cost to both entities would have been $33,900, with Pineville contributing $15,000 to the project.
The position would have been used to research and prepare grant applications for both Bell-Whitley and Pineville. The focus would have been on revitalization, renaissance, and main street efforts for Pineville. The main focus for Bell-Whitley would have been grant research and preparation for housing efforts.
In the letter, Capps pointed out that an unanticipated problem had occurred, making it impossible for Bell-Whitley to participate in the agreement. Bell-Whitley does not have an agreement to allow them to participate with the city in such a manner and could possibly cause issues for the agency. Funds that was to have been used for the project are expected to be reduced this month.
The council voted to end its agreement with Bell-Whitley.
The Main Street Program needs at least a part-time director in order to make and receive grants. Pineville is expecting a grant from the program and Councilor Diana Bowling suggested the city retain Tim Cornett to fill the position. The funds to pay his salary, $15,000, would come from Pineville's donation to Bell-Whitley.
Councilor's were concerned that the progress Cornett has made, in the last few months, continue and suggested he keep his position.
The council voted to approve Cornett for the position. Details are to be worked out with the city and related Pineville organizations.
In another request from Bell-Whitley, the council approved a resolution providing access to the building site between Pine Street and Cherry Street. USDA requested an agreement exist between Bell-Whitley and Pineville before work can begin on the agency's office relocation project.
The agreement between Kentucky American Water and the City of Pineville will be terminated at the end of the year. Current director Bill Bunch told the council that Kentucky American will no longer be contracting with cities to operate water companies. When the contract ends, Pineville will have to begin regulating its own water and sewer company or hire another company.
Currently Kentucky American has three such contracts, the largest being with Pineville. Bunch says he has personally committed to stay in Pineville during the transition to make sure the transfer moves smoothly.
“I'm personally invested over there. Personally I'm going to work very hard to make the transition very smooth from Kentucky Water to whatever the community wants to do,” stated Bunch.
The council, passed on first reading, an ordinance regulating the sale of alcoholic beverages within the city of Pineville. The ordinance will go into effect on second reading. One of the most defined in Kentucky, the ordinance allows sale of alcoholic beverages only with meals in a restaurant that seats 100 or more customers.
C.J. Harte is a Correspondent for the Daily News. He can be reached via e-mail at charte@middlesborodailynews.com.
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