By: James Jones

Two key items were discussed at Selma City Council’s special called meeting on Wednesday at City Hall.

A motion was passed to open up bids to pick up garbage around the city.

City Council President Corey D. Bowie began the discussion with the four other council members present at the meeting: Ward 2 Councilwoman Susan Youngblood, Ward 4 Councilwoman Angela Benjamin, Ward 3 Councilwoman Miah Jackson and Ward 7 Councilwoman Jannie Thomas.

All council members present expressed concern about the trash issue.

Bowie said he met with companies and they’d be willing to remove trash around the city.  He didn’t name any of the prospective companies.

“They’re chomping at the bit to come in and clean up the trash,” Bowie said. “They agreed to help facilitate the process. But it’s important to go through the public works department.”

If the council agrees on the bid, Bowie estimated a six to eight-week timeframe to complete the trash removal.

Bowie also revealed he sent a letter to Gov. Kay Ivey about bringing the Alabama National Guard to come in and help clean up the city.

Two trucks are currently operating and the trash collectors work six days a week, according to Thomas.

Jackson expressed concern for the residents’ health.

“We’re creating a hazardous situation for our citizens,” Jackson said. “It will cause our citizens to have medical conditions.”

Youngblood had a suggestion for her District after the trash issue is resolved.

“Once we get our stuff cleaned up, I’m going to educate people on what they can put out for trash,” Youngblood said. “People cut trees and expect the trash workers to pick it up.”

The Council also voted on a one-time event Alcoholic Beverage License for the seventh annual “Jazz on the Grazz” event on Jun 16 at Phoenix Park.

Organpi Farms LLC, located on 1200 Water Avenue, will provide the alcohol.

Council members not present at the meeting were Michael Johnson of Ward 8, Ward 5 Councilman Samuel L. Randolph, Ward 1 Councilman Carl Bowline and Ward 6 Councilman Johnnie M. Leashore.

The Selma City Council will have a work session at 5 p.m. Thursday at city hall. The city will also have its regular meeting at 5 p.m. Tuesday.