Perry City previews agenda: security cameras, budget amendment, contract change and event permit

Perry City officials used a Nov. 18 pre-council meeting to review items headed to the regular council agenda, including a police request for downtown security cameras, a routine budget amendment, a contract amendment for residential cart services and a railroad licensing fee tied to a sewer installation.

Security cameras: Chief Everage described a downtown camera request (item 11A) for building-mounted units similar to existing park cameras but without the accompanying solar panels. He said the configuration is a building corner mount and staff may alter pole color to help the fixtures blend with surroundings. Council members asked about mounting and appearance; no vote was taken at the pre-council stage.

Budget amendment: Mr. Worthington presented a standard first reading of a 2025 budget amendment (item 11B1) that reconciles fiscal-year 2025 revenues and expenses to actuals for audit purposes. He explained the amendment helps with the audit process and reduces state paperwork.

Ryland Environmental contract amendment: Mrs. White described Amendment No. 1 to Ryland Environmental Incorporated's contract to add nominal fees for cart deliveries, repairs, recycling and maintenance, a change intended to allow reallocation of staff at the transfer station.

Railroad licensing fee for sewer project: Mr. McMurray briefed the council on a public right-of-way agreement with Georgia Southern & Florida Railroad required for the A.E. Harris Road sewer force main. He said the agreement includes a one-time licensing fee of $25,000; staff sought authorization to move forward under the railroad's terms.

Events and appointments: Miss Hartley presented a special event application from the Perry Area Convention and Visitors Bureau for a spring travel showcase on May 2, 2026, to be held in the City Hall parking lot; no objections were reported and no additional city services were requested. The mayor also noted a recommendation to reappoint Phyllis Ingram as the housing authority resident commissioner, and proposed moving the resolution to appoint Robert Smith as city manager earlier in the agenda so Mr. Smith and his guests would not have to wait.

The council tabled a proposed connectivity (connection) fee until Dec. 4 for later action. A motion to adjourn the pre-council meeting passed by raised-hand vote; the group recessed until 6:00 p.m. for the regular meeting.

Several items were presented for awareness during agenda review and will appear on the regular meeting agenda for any required formal action.