Published: August 29, 2008 02:22 pm      

Fees to increase for Pinehurst residents

PINEHURST — Pinehurst residents who pay their water/sewer bill after the due date will be charged a 10 percent penalty.

During a meeting Tuesday evening, council members voted to adopt an ordinance allowing the increase.

Another ordinance passed by council members was preventing the use of faulty fire alarm systems within the city of Pinehurst and providing for a penalty for violations. Since the first of the year there have been nine calls from one local business. Furthermore, of the nine calls, four were during the month of August. Now, fines imposed could be up to $200 for false calls.

Council members voted to amend an ordinance to reflect the change in the fee schedule of permit, moving, demolition, pool, sign and other fees.

According to Grady Gray, code enforcement officer, all other local cities have followed suit and have passed or are going to pass the ordinance so they will be uniform.

Hearings have been set in order to give citizens a chance to speak their minds regarding the proposed 2008 tax rate increase of $0.58652 per $100 valuation from the former rate of $0.53000. The first public hearing is set for Sept. 9 while the second hearing is Sept. 12. Both hearings are at 6 p.m. at the Pinehurst City Hall. Council members hope to approve the budget during a meeting Sept. 23.

Tommy Gunn, city attorney, informed the council he had met with Shawn Sadaruddin, owner of Video Paradise, and his attorney to discuss the property located at 2500 MacArthur Drive.

An action plan has been submitted to have the structure repaired. So far the requirement of having the sewer line repaired and the windows boarded has been completed. However, Sadaruddin still has to finish painting the exterior, have the debris and shrubbery removed and repair the roof.



Reach this reporter at 409-883-3571, Ext. 2613, or dschamber@orangeleader.com