Time No Longer Stands Still in Austell

For more than a decade, time has stood still in Austell– literally. The hands on the clock at City Hall have been stuck at 2:26, correctly telling time only twice a day for the last 10 years.

Some say it was a metaphor and indication of other issues gone unaddressed throughout the city.

It was an issue most recently pointed out publicly by City Council candidate Lance Lamberton during his campaign. Lamberton lost to incumbent Virginia Reagan, who has sat on the City Council for 16 years.    

What do you think of Austell's purchase of a new digital announcement board? Why do you think it took the city so long to make this change?      

A new digital LED sign will replace the broken clock and announce public meetings and events. The City Council unanimously approved the purchase of the 88-foot by 88-foot sign for a cost of $19,861.

The sign could be installed by April.

Additionally, the city is making other purchases, including a wide format scanner, which is used to print large maps. The ColorWave 300 Printer will cost the city a monthly fee of $130, which includes maintenance. The fees will be paid by the city’s stormwater division.           

The city already purchased a pre-owned 2009 Elgin Whirlwind MP Streetsweeper by the time it was approved by the city council at its March regular meeting. The $135,000 streetsweeper was funded by the 2011 SPLOST.

However, the city is not only purchasing equipment, but selling it as well, on GovDeals site, which is like eBay for governing bodies. Using this site instead of a public auction is “more efficient and cut(s) down on staff time,” according to the council supporting documents.

The service is no cost to the city and all revenue will be returned to the general fund balance. Items for sale include a paper shredder, calculators, a computer mouse, printers, receipt printers, credit card machines and a cash box.

Missed out on this month’s Austell City Council meeting? View the attached video for more information.