City works on vendor ordinance

Jacksboro city officials are working on a food truck vendor ordinance.

While still in the draft stage with plenty of room for council advice, City Manager Mike Smith gave council some ideas. It provides requirements for vendors and for a court. It says a water line must be provided by the property owner for a maximum of three trucks on the lot. The line, provided by the city, must be shared between them.

Once a lot is full, vendors must go find another lot if needed. Indoor restrooms must be provided (not ports potties) along with landscaping. Mayor Craig Fenter says it’s a “good starting point.”

In other news during the 1:45 meeting:

• Council was given an update on a return to work policy for city employees. Smith said that if an employee is injured and gets off sick leave or worker’s compensation, they would be eligible for another position if available. If they can no longer do their job, and there is nothing else available, the policy allows for separation.

• Smith also gave a number of staffing updates. Building official Greg Damron, who is retiring effective July 31, will be replaced by Colton Guinn. Guinn is working as chief operator for water distribution and collection. Damron has agreed to work on a contract basis for 12-18 months to get Guinn fully trained in his position.

Paula Flaming, lead operator at the water treatment plant, is retiring Sept. 30 and will be replaced by Anthony Shaw. Shaw is a technician in wastewater distribution and collection.

Former police Lt. Matt Windham retired June 14 and was replaced by Sgt. Brian Corb, who was replaced at Sgt. by School Resource Officer James Henry. Once school begins, Chris Moody, a former JPD officer, will take over as SRO.

The police department is looking for two officers, including a replacement for Jeff Tyler, who went to work for the Montague County Sheriff’s Department.

• Aldermen approved giving Smith authority to spend up to $22,000 for a transfer switch on the water plant generator system. The original cost was going to be $17,630 but had a 44 week delivery time. Instead another switch, with a 23 week delivery time, will be purchased.

A new skid steer will also be purchased by the city as aldermen authorized a purchase of up to $65,000. Smith said several department in the city can use the machinery for their work.

Smith said he can find the funds to pay for the steer, using part of the $100,000 in donations to remove tornado debris.