Heath Springs council discusses security package for Town Hall

HEATH SPRINGS – Most of the talk at town council’s March 20 meeting centered on protection for Town Hall – whether it’s from insects or burglars.

Council voted unanimously that evening to accept a bid from Rollins Pest Control of Jefferson.

For $1,500, the company will install termite bait traps at the recently renovated Town Hall on Duncan Street. And for $485, the company will perform once-a-year monitoring and servicing.

Before hearing the bid from Rollins, the town had received a quote from Terminix for the same service. That company would charge the town $2,545 for the installation and $604 for the annual monitoring.

“It’s our responsibility to get the best we can for our dollar for the townspeople,” Councilman Ted Sowell said.

Town Hall security

Council members then discussed security cameras for the building, which is connected to the station for the town’s fire department.

Councilman Mark Bridges said he’s been in talks with the company ATS about a security package that includes eight cameras, the monitoring equipment, connectors and other related equipment.

The plan is for cameras to be placed in both the interior and exterior of the building. Council members have targeted at least one camera for the clerk’s office and possibly two for the meeting room, which is still being renovated.

Bridges said he was to meet with Comporium Communications last week to get a cost estimate for their security packages.

ATS’ quote wasn’t disclosed at the council meeting.

Mayor Ann Taylor said council will consider the item another time, perhaps at the April 17 meeting.

Renewable energy proclamation

The meeting’s agenda also included the consideration of a renewable-energy proclamation.

At council’s February meeting, Camden attorney Mary Elizabeth Van Horn spoke on the possible effects of any new energy-related government mandates on domestic manufacturers.

Her law firm, which represents domestic manufacturers in the state, has been encouraging municipalities to adopt resolutions supporting alternative energy uses.

Heath Springs Town Council voted unanimously March 20 to consult state Sen. Vincent Sheheen and Rep. Jimmy Neal to get more insight before taking any official action.

“Our best bet would be to ask our state representatives,” Bridges said. “I think it’s going to be a state issue anyway.”

 Contact reporter Jesef Williams at (803) 283-1152