County Commission looking into grant for Sheriff’s Department

Published 11:22 am Tuesday, April 9, 2013

The Marengo County Commission met Tuesday morning and addressed Sheriff Richard Bates’ need for new cars for his department.

Commissioner Freddie Armstead said he is working with Frank Dobson from the Alabama Tombigbee Regional Commission on getting a grant that could allow for the purchase of three cars. In Bates’ budget, he is able to purchase one new car per year, but he is holding off until he knows more about the grant.

“Right now, we have 11 cars in the department, and all but two of those have over 100,000 miles,” Bates said. “I’m spending more in repairs per year than it would cost to buy a new car.”

Email newsletter signup

The commission also voted to give the Aimwell Voting Hall building to Aimwell Baptist Church. The building will no longer be used as a voting hall, and instead of moving the building, the commission decided to give the building to the church.

The commission also approved the computer system upgrade for Revenue Commissioner Sharon Barkley from last month’s meeting. Commissioner Michael Thompson said everything with the system seems fine.

The commissioners are planning to participate in the Statewide Spring Cleanup from Saturday, April 20 to Saturday, April 27, and are encouraging the public to participate as well. There are garbage bags available in the county clerk’s office for people to pick up to use in the cleanup. All materials and supplies have been furnished by Alabama PALS.