DEMOPOLIS &045; There are numerous family dwellings in Demopolis that do not have access to natural gas hookups and are appealing to Alagasco for service.

A petition that asks the company to consider providing service to homes that desire the utility has been circulated among homeowners of the neighborhood to bolster support. The petition was presented to representatives from Alagasco yesterday at a meeting at City Hall.

The meeting at City Hall was attended by Demopolis Mayor, Cecil Williamson, Moore, Alagasco district manager, Joseph Hampton, Alagasco senior marketing representative, Leisa Ratcliff and Patricia Jones. Jones has spearheaded the efforts to provide the community with gas lines.

Hampton said yesterday’s meeting will get the ball rolling on efforts by the company to provide service.

Moore has expressed concern over the welfare of the members of his district that are currently unable to receive service from the company. At last Thursday’s city council meeting he asked the council members to support the residents in their pursuit of accessible gas.

Hampton said that the company will have to do a health analysis and inspect the homes’ appliances and ensure that they will work properly after converting from propane to natural gas before the decision to install lines can be made.

Hampton said that because the Alabama Public Service Commission regulates the company it doesn’t want added cost to the consumer for service instillation. The company will be able to make a decision within two weeks on whether or not they will be able provide service to the community.