Several local businessmen voiced concerns to the Demopolis City Council Thursday night about break-ins and vandalism at the South Industrial Park.

Jerry Gaddy, whose business is located in the industrial park, also shared his concerns over foot-traffic in the area that is unrelated to business in the park. Gaddy said that he whether or not those passing through are contributing to the crime rate or not, it still creates a safety concern for the business owners.

He praised the work of the Demopolis Police Department, as well as the Demopolis Fire Department, but asked that patrols by the police department be increased to help cut down on crime in the area.

Gaddy, as well as representatives from Foster Farms and Eaves Construction, also shared their concerns about the residential area that joins the park on its southern border.

The issue of whether or not the property is a motel or an apartment complex, and whether or not is properly zoned, were discussed at length. The city’s current zoning regulations do allow for hotels and motels in areas zoned for industrial use.

Mayor Mike Grayson promised the businessmen that the police department would have an increased presence in the area, and that the council would explore whether or not the residential property is properly zoned.

“I think this is something that we need to look into more and get some more facts,” Grayson said.

In other business:

•Accepted Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood’s bid of $16,500 for repairs on a collapsing culvert on Herbert Street.

•Approved a bid for new traffic signals at the intersection of Pettus, Front and Arcola Road.

•Approved a request by Demopolis Police Chief Tommie Reese to apply for a police officer body camera grant.

•Accepted a bid of $15,590 from Rice Heating and Cooling for HVAC work at the Rosenbush Building.

•Passed a motion giving its support to the Demopolis Historical Preservation Commission and its efforts to divide the city into historical districts.