Town Meeting Focused on Ida Response and Garbage Pickup

When the Franklinton Mayor and Board of Aldermen met Tuesday (September 14, 2021) evening, the two primary topics were issues of garbage pickup by Amwaste and the Town's response to Hurricane Ida.

Amwaste District Manager Dustin Fortenberry appeared and responded to questions and complaints from Mayor Route and others. See the video beginning at 3:30. The recent demands and delayed pickup of garbage caused by Hurricane Ida was recognized. However, the mayor characterized the issues of concern as being recurring ones and stated that responses by Amwaste have been excuses. Issues of trash residue being left after trash pickup, liquid coming from the garbage trucks, garbage trucks that are in poor condition, missed pickups, better communications, and more were brought up. Fortenberry responded to all questions and complaints, acknowledged improvements need to be made, described the challenges Amwaste experiences, and committed to providing better service.

Public Works Supervisor Reginald McMasters addressed his department's responses during the hurricane. See the video beginning at 34:30. But the focus of his remarks was to praise his staff. They left their families and took care of the needs of Town residents. He then expanded his praise to include the linemen, the police department, the fire department, the administration, and others.  He challenged residents to recognize the efforts of those who kept the water running, kept the gas lines open, kept the streets clean, restored electricity, and kept the Town safe.  

The Mayor and the Aldermen also commended the Town's employees for stepping up to meet the challenges brought on by the storm. 

In other business, 

• a Public Hearing was held on an ordinance to adjust water service fees and the ordinance was subsequently approved
• the promotion of Leonard Holloway from patrolman to sergeant was approved
• concerns were heard during the Public Participation segment of the meeting and
• following additional comments from the Aldermen, the meeting was adjourned.