The Piedmont City Council, on Tuesday, agreed to share the revenue gathered from the city’s bingo tax with the Piedmont City Schools, reversing course on a recent decision to retain the entire tax for the city.
That May 3rd decision to amend the city’s bingo ordinance was rescinded following a unanimous vote. As a result, the $4 “head tax” will now once again be evenly split with the city school system.
Council Member Terry Kiser, who originally proposed the change, also motioned to rescind it on Tuesday.
Explaining his decision, Kiser said, “The schools are part of us and we’re a part of the schools,” adding, “The council should be looking at the city first, but should be looking out for the schools too.”
Piedmont’s 4,500-seat, closed since 2010, is expected to reopen sometime this year.
Bills for payment were approved in the amount of $499,003.72 in addition to a payroll amount of $170,095.61 for a total of $669,099.33.
The council passed an abatement resolution to cut the grass at a Harris Avenue property, which has been declared a public nuisance.
Also, the council approved the travel of the council to attend an upcoming conference to be held in Guin, Alabama, concerning how to alleviate bad debts owed to municipalities.
Mayor Bill Baker proclaimed June 15th, 2016 as Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
The next regular Piedmont City Council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, June 21st, at 6 pm.