East Ridge Under Budget In Every Department 

East Ridge Under Budget In Every Department

Tarot Reading
East Ridge City Manager David Mays gave the financial statement showing the city has spent only 84.5% of the yearly budget so far. He told the mayor the city is "under budget in every department."

Mayor Vince Dean commended all those who participated in the Relay for Life. He said East Ridge had 21 teams that raised over $23,000 for the American Cancer Society.

The council approved an ordinance on first reading to rezone a tract of land located at 623 Frawley Road from R-1 residential district to RT-1 residential townhouse district. The applicant said he plans to develop the land and build approximately 70 townhome units. Mayor Dean noted that this request "comes with the recommendation of the planning commission."

The council also approved an ordinance on first reading to rezone 5319 Matthews Dr. from R-1 residential district to R-2 residential duplex district. The current owner petitioned the council because a potential buyer would like the property rezoned.

Also at the meeting, the council authorized the mayor and city manager to hire Johnson, Hickey and Murchison, P.C. to audit the city's books. Mayor Dean said this firm has worked with the city for a long time, not counting one year they used another firm. That firm went bankrupt, he said.

The council also approved a 20-year lease with East Ridge Revitalization, Inc. This will allow the group to use a portion of the East Ridge Annex to house the East Ridge History and Archives Museum. As reported earlier, this lease will help the museum receive a sizable grant.

During the time allotted for citizen's input, a local tarot card reader and spiritual advisor asked the councilmen what permissions she needs to do business at the flea market.

Jerry Rozzell again brought some questions before the council. He asked for the council members to give reasons why his petition for rezoning was denied last month. The city attorney said "the city speaks through its minutes," and the decision is "not subject to negotiation."

After Mr. Rozzell repeatedly asked for answers, Mayor Dean said the council members do not legally have to answer his questions, adding, "We answer on Nov. 7."