Ocilla council hears reports of potholes, missing speed bumps, culvert damage and animal-control equipment needs

Ocilla department heads updated the City Council on public-works and public-safety concerns at the Feb. 3 meeting, noting street damage, animal-control equipment needs and utility issues.

Police Chief Ashley Jones gave the monthly report and said electric golf carts operating in the city still "need lights and reflectors," according to the minutes. Streets Department Director Cornelius Hall reported that an Animal Control officer had been bitten by a dangerous dog and said he needs gloves and a net gun; the minutes record that the price on the net gun is $4,000 and that Hall would obtain additional price quotes.

Utility Director Bruce Wilder told the council staff are compiling cutoff lists for unpaid bills and that the recent weather has produced more water leaks than usual.

Council members raised specific maintenance concerns: Mayor Pro Tem Lisa Cook asked for camera speed data after noting potholes and safety on Lakewood Drive; Council Member Patrice Manley reported that speed bumps on Oak Street near Tyson Funeral Home were torn off by snowplows and asked that replacements be ordered; Council Member Chris Paulk raised a culvert problem on Frank Road and reported complaints about garbage being left at neighbors' trash cans, saying dogs have scattered refuse and that Ocilla lacks a Code Enforcement Officer to address such complaints.

The minutes note council members also expressed concerns about excess spending in some city departments but do not provide budget figures or specific departmental line items.