City finances get thumbs up

The city's financial health was the topic of discussion Monday, April 28 during the Columbus City Council meeting.

The city received an unqualified "clean" opinion by Wm. Pierce Arthur, certified public accountant, for their financial statements ending Sept. 30, 2007.

At the close of 2007, the city's net assets were $7,750,232, an increase of $115,977 over the prior year.

First the audit showed Columbus having economic growth with a six percent increase in sales tax revenue over the last year at $698,441. While there have been no new big businesses, the report stated that steady, sound growth is being experienced. It cited the city's future bright with the city's annexation of land that incorporates two new hotels and a new restaurant. A 100-bed nursing home facility is also expected for completion by the end of 2008.

The unemployment rate for Colorado County was included in the report, which is 3.6 percent, a decrease from a rate of 4.3 percent.

On hand at Monday's meeting was Colorado County Commissioner Herbie Helcamp, Precinct 2 to ask council members to consider the closing of a railroad crossing site at County Road 2104 and Hwy. 90 on the north side of Glidden.

The request came following discussions Helcamp had with the Texas Department of Transportation and railroad officials regarding railroad crossing arms and the dead end at CR 2104.

"The train is not supposed to keep a road blocked for more than 10 minutes, but over the years the train has blocked it and kept land-owners from going out or in," explained Helmcamp. "They have been asked not to block it a number of times."

Helmcamp said the railroad has agreed to give him the right of way up to the city's Industrial Park but needs the city's help in extending the current road through the industrial park to provide another outlet for landowners.

Access for emergency personnel is also a concern for Helmcamp.

"If a train is blocking the crossing, it is next to impossible for emergency services to get to residents," said Helmcamp.

No decisions were made Monday night. Helmcamp said the issue is still in the talking stages and there are a couple of options. He said landowners in the area still need to be approached about the matter.

During the city manager's report, David Meisell expressed concerns over more repair work that was done over time to city sewer and water plants components, which was deteriorating and becoming hazardous.

Also in regards to older structures, Meisell told council members that Tim Gescheidle with AIA would be meeting with council in May to discuss city hall improvements and asbestos removal.

In other updates, Meisell reported that the city netted approximately $54,000 in the auction of surplus city property April 26. He also noted that the city swimming pool had been cleaned and painted. The pool is scheduled to open for the public on June 3.

Several sewer line repairs were mentioned including one west of Bowie Street on Preston and along the north end of Burford.

Also given to city council members during the manager's report were suggestions for reduced speeds along Hwy. 71 near the entrances and exits to town. The proposed plan had reduced speeds of 35 miles per hour from Colorado River bridge to the Ratliff Creek bridge, with the exceptions of school zones that would be 25 miles per hour.

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