Price tells city officials he may pursue legal action over flooding

Sparta resident Erbie Price addressed city officials during an Oct. 3 meeting about flooding on his property and stated he may pursue legal action if the issue is not resolved.

During the recent meeting of Sparta Board of Mayor and Aldermen, Erbie Price brought attention to a pressing issue affecting his property on North Edgewood. He expressed concern over chronic flooding that has turned his yard into what he described as a swimming area, with water levels reaching waist deep. Price attributed the flooding to decisions made regarding the placement of a trailer on his property, which he argued was not positioned according to his original request for a 15-foot setback from the road. He emphasized that the flooding has not only damaged his trailer’s foundation but has also caused him significant health issues, including mildew-related sickness. Price said he was quoted a cost of $53,000 to rectify the flooding problem, which has persisted for two years. He came to the meeting to request assistance from the city, noting a grant designed to support the Africa-American community that could potentially help alleviate some of his financial burden. Price expressed frustration that his concerns have remained unaddressed to date and said that he would feel compelled to pursue legal action against both the city and the county if neither chooses to step in provide him with some help soon.

 After hearing from Price, who was listed at the top of the meeting’s agenda, the board made no comment or motion as is customary when residents bring comments and concerns before them.

Next, the board was presented with the city’s need for upgraded software to improve governmental operations. City Administrator Tonya Tindle presented plans for transitioning to an updated local government software system provided by the same company currently used by the city. This new software promises enhanced efficiency and features such as online tax payment options for residents, something that Mayor Jerry Lowery said the community has been requesting, and a dedicated employee portal for accessing check stubs and other information. Tindle highlighted the importance of this upgrade, noting that the current version will soon be unsupported, leading to potential complications if the city continues to use it. She also informed the board that the company works hand-in-hand with the state comptroller’s office which will make the city’s ability to complete state reports and audits more efficient. The board voted to approve transitioning to the new software now despite an increase in cost rather than wait until the next budget due to the fact that the anticipated timeline for implementation is approximately six months.

 The meeting also saw the approval of new hires, Jackie Brown and Antonio Paz, who will serve as truck drivers for the city, and the swearing in of the city’s first reserve police officer, Tyler Brandes.

Under old business, Mayor Lowery shared updates about a significant land acquisition, revealing that the city has secured a contract for 120 acres of land. He and Tindle plan to evaluate this opportunity in the upcoming week, outlining the necessary steps for moving forward with the purchase. This acquisition could provide the city with additional resources for future development and community projects should they elect to purchase the land located on Winding Lane.

 Another topic of discussion before the meeting was adjourned was the highly anticipated splash pad project, which comes with a budget of $2.3 million. Aldermen continue to ask if any progress is being made and when they will see a proposed design. Mayor Lowery stated the city held a productive meeting with the contractor to review the preliminary concepts but said the final design is not ready for viewing. The contractor is expected to finalize the details and return with a comprehensive design within three to four weeks.