Athens City Council discussed taking a larger role in the planning of Halloween festivities and possibly phasing out the party completely at last night's meeting.
As chair of the Arts & Recreation Committee, Carol Patterson, D-at large, will lead council discussion of the issue. This is a change from past years because Mayor Ric Abel and City Safety Director Wayne Key have always been in charge of planning the party.
The health and safety of the people is the responsibility of the city
Patterson said.
The current perception is the city of Athens actually holds the Halloween festival every year. Council discussed whether the city wants to keep this perception or phase out the party over the next five years.
Discussion will continue on this issue throughout the year with council and the city, Patterson said.
Taxi service regulations were also discussed at the meeting.
New rules were proposed that would require all employees, including owners of the taxi services, to have background checks before they can transport any passengers.
Having safety provisions are more important than making drivers wait a couple of weeks before they can drive Patterson said.
Council also discussed other changes that may take place as a result of recent issues.
Sharon Gall of SJB Development, spoke on behalf of the proposed Hampton Inn hotel on 986 E. State St. near the University Mall. Gall said the developers need the city to annex the 15-acre portion of land before construction can begin. She said the company would like to begin construction this spring.
Bojinka Bishop, D-2nd Ward, proposed informal discussions before council meetings to encourage involvement of Athens residents in current city issues.
The meetings will be held prior to council meetings at 6 p.m. every Monday once they are organized.
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Meghan Nicholson
