The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
The Dallas City Council held its regular meeting on Monday, November 3, with Mayor Kevin Six presiding. Commissioners Carole McDowell, Peggy Newberry, and Greg Olson were present, while Commissioner Harold Northup Jr. was absent.
The council quickly approved the minutes from the October 20 meeting and authorized payment of the city’s bills, both by unanimous 4-0 votes.
Community Support and Events
Police Chief Gary Smith announced the return of the popular “Stuff the Squad” food drive, scheduled for Thursday, November 13, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Dollar General. All non-perishable food donations collected will benefit the local food pantry at Grace Bible Church.
In other community news, the Dallas City American Legion served 248 hot dogs to trick-or-treaters on Halloween night, continuing the organization’s long-standing tradition of supporting the annual event.
Infrastructure and Equipment Decisions
The council discussed an extra picnic table currently stored at city hall that is intended for the Wetlands Area. Members agreed to delay placement until spring 2026, when a concrete pad can be poured to provide a stable base.
A new portable generator was approved for purchase from Melton’s Auto for approximately $1,000. The motion, made by Commissioner Olson and seconded by Commissioner McDowell, passed 4-0.
An older 5-foot rotary brush mower with a 3-point hitch, no longer needed at the sewer lagoon, will be declared surplus. The city will advertise for sealed bids, with bids to be opened at the December 1, 2025, council meeting.
Code Enforcement and New Ordinances
City officials addressed a property where a section of sidewalk has been removed but not replaced. The city attorney will contact the property owner to resolve the issue.
Two new ordinances aimed at improving community appearance and safety were unanimously approved:
Ordinance #685 – Litter Control Ordinance Ordinance #686 – An Ordinance Authorizing Abatement of Nuisances by the CityBoth measures give the city clearer authority to address litter and nuisance properties.
Water Billing Software Review
City Clerk Anne Thompson reported ongoing problems with the current water billing software, particularly in customer service functions.
She has been in contact with an alternative provider whose system includes an integrated messaging feature.
Thompson will investigate potential termination fees with the existing vendor and bring additional information to the December meeting for further discussion.
Looking Ahead: 2026 Fishing Tournaments
Commissioner Olson informed the council that organizers of two fishing tournaments planned for May and August 2026 have requested use of the Dallas City boat docks. No formal action was required at this time, but the events are expected to bring visitors to the community.
The meeting adjourned at 6:15 p.m. after a motion by Commissioner McDowell, seconded by Olson, and approved 4-0.
This information was taken from the November 3 minutes approved at the November 17 regular meeting. The Dallas City Council’s next meeting is scheduled for 5:30 on Monday, December 1 at City Hall.