City will no longer haul off furniture and appliances

An agenda item of significance for the Aug. 15 meeting of Sparta Board of Mayor and Aldermen was the proposed amendment to the ordinance about residential solid waste management.

The discussion highlighted the need to adjust regulations on waste disposal, particularly concerning items like sofas and appliances. City administrator Tonya Tindle had explained in the board’s previous meeting that, with a new company owning the county’s landfill, the city was being billed for the disposal of larger items, something for which they had not planned. The board ultimately voted in favor of the amendment, requiring residents to transport any items, other than brush, that do not fit inside the provided 96-gallon trash cans, to convenience centers where the county will dispose of them free of charge.

Another pivotal decision was the approval of a $10,000 grant from the TVA Community Care Grant program. This funding will enable the provision of free weather radios to residents of Sparta, enhancing safety and awareness during severe weather events. The collaborative effort between the city and the TVA is part of a proactive approach for community safety and disaster preparedness.

 There was also a discussion that centered on the need for a water plant operator and training program. Concerns about excessive overtime hours for employees were raised, prompting the board to consider recruitment and training measures to alleviate workload and improve operational efficiency in the public works department.

Mike O’Neal, the city’s codes officer, reported he had attempted to contact the owner of the building which once stood at 33 W. Bockman Way. O’Neal informed the board his calls to the owner had not been returned, and no timeline had been given for when the remains of the building that was taken down for public safety would be cleaned up.

 Before the meeting was adjourned, they board acknowledged Alderman Brian Jone who will be stepping down following the election certification next month. Jones was commended for his dedicated service to the community, and he was presented with a City of Sparta flag as a token of appreciation.

The next meeting for Sparta Board of Mayor and Aldermen will be 5 p.m., Sept. 5, 2024, at city hall.