Bealls obtains permit to begin remodeling building in West Towne Plaza

On Nov. 7, Sparta Board of Mayor and Aldermen took significant steps to address the city’s waste management needs by approving funds for the repair of the existing garbage truck and the purchase of a new one.

 Sparta Public Works Director Dillard Quick reported the current truck requires a complete replacement of its front axle, and the board approved the repairs which are estimated to cost $30,000 but can’t be done until April 2025.

Under new business, Mayor Jerry Lowery informed the board the opportunity to purchase an additional garbage truck had been presented earlier in the day.

“We have had money in the budget the last couple of years put back each year for the truck, so we are not going to be out that much money this year because it is in the budget for next year as well, so it’s just time to pony up and get one,” Quick told the board that the new truck will cost approximately $390,000 and said that if the purchase was approved, the new truck could arrive soon, potentially as early as Monday.

“I think it’s a purchase that is needed. We can’t let trash start piling up,” Lowery urged the aldermen to approve the purchase and reassured them that the city’s budget remain stable moving forward.

  In addition to the garbage truck matters, the council approved a resolution to declare a 1994 Ford Ranger as Surplus Property, which will be donated to the Upper Cumberland Regional Airport.

“They are needing a truck up there to help with moving stuff around and we have one that was seized,” Mayor Lowery explained.

 The board also discussed ongoing developments in the city, including the announcement that Bealls has obtained its permit and will begin remodeling the former grocery store building in the West Towne Plaza starting November 11. It was also noted that there are currently no city ordinances requiring property owners to cover the mud at the old hardware store demolition site with gravel. The mayor did mention that the city is exploring options to install fencing around the drop-off area at that location, although they are still in the process of obtaining quotes.

 Before concluding the meeting, the board approved applications for two volunteer firefighters, Wyatt Cotten and Thomas Frazier, allowing them to begin training. Additionally, Keith Volkers’ application for a position as a Sanitation Truck Driver was approved during the meeting, and a beer permit for Brothers Tavern – which hopes to open for business before the end of the month – was approved.