The Severy City Council meets on the first Monday of each month. The following report was generated from the unofficial minutes, which are subject to approval.
The regular meeting of the Severy City Council was called to order at 7:03 p.m. on Jan. 5. Newly elected council members Bryan Hampton, Lyle Riggs and Rodger Kraft were sworn in.
The council approved the December 2025 minutes, bills and treasurer’s report as presented.
Water Superintendent Paul Schmidt informed the council that the water use report from the state was received and he would get it filled out before March.
Schmidt noted that there was a violation from the state for failing the HAA testing. Another water sample will be submitted. A state inspector came to inspect the salt creek pump.
Schmidt asked for an extension to get the water perfected. The state is requiring the pump to run for a specified time from January to December (excluding the drought months of July and August) to run as much water as possible through the meter. It was noted that there were a few things that must be done before the water can go through the meter. Schmidt noted the plan would be to get everything completed and start the process in January 2027.
The city is allowed 22 million gallons a year for both permits. Schmidt informed the council he is on the last back wash pump.
In Old Business, Clerk Tessa Riggs gave an update on the sale of the vacant railroad lots. It was noted that the warranty deeds for two of the three owners have been recorded at the courthouse. The owner of the last sold property has not paid yet. The council agreed to allow a few more months for payment.
In New Business, the council approved to move the Sept. 7 meeting to Sept. 10 at 7 p.m. due to the Labor Day Holiday. The quarterly invoice for water tower maintenance was discussed. It was noted that after an increase of $285.74, Clerk Riggs reached out to the utility service company and was presented with the amount and years that the city would see an increase. City Attorney William Mc-Clendon suggested that Riggs request a current contract and possibly have Jenelle Summerow with WaterWise assist in looking for another company. The issue was tabled until the February meeting.
Waiving mowing fees from one of the vacant lots that sold at the tax sale in December were discussed. The council declined to waive the fees.
The council discussed an issue regarding dirt that the city wrongfully removed after a misunderstanding in reference to a property line. After discussion, Riggs asked the council if the berms could be put back in place with black dirt along with a low spot that needs to be filled in.
The council held a 15-minute executive session to consult with Attorney McClendon regarding matters subject to attorney- client privilege to include Clerk Riggs. After returning to open session, no decisions were made. Another executive session, for 60 minutes, was held for non-elected personnel for employee performance to include Attorney Mc-Clendon, Clerk Riggs and Summerow. After returning to open meeting, no action was taken.
Discussion was held in reference to numerous atlarge dogs around town. Attorney McClendon stated the city could hire a dog catcher, however, there is nowhere to take them. Clerk Riggs stated she would try to contact local vets to try to work something out. The council also discussed tax deductions for new businesses.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:50 p.m. The next meeting of the Severy City Council will be held on March 2 at 7 p.m.
