City Employees To Get Bonuses

The Monticello City Council voted to give all full-time employees Christmas bonuses without much discussion at their regular meeting Tuesday night. The decision came after a recommendation from City Manager Tim Sweezey, saying that the council budgeted for employee raises in July and they were not implemented until December, therefore leaving about $3,600 surplus that will be used for the bonuses.

The council also voted to renew the liquor licenses for Hideaway Package store on Towee Street and McMichael’s Package store on Frobel Street.

During the City Manager’s report, Mr. Sweezey told the council that all of the tasks and projects were currently completed or ongoing. He suggested that sometime in the new year the new council hold a work session to compile a new list. He also told the council that Norton Packaging is moving forward and plans to open after the first of the year. Mr. Sweezey commended the city gas and water departments for all of their hard work at the Norton site. The city will provide both of these services for the industry. The Family Dollar store has begun moving, and plans to be completely in the new building by the end of the year.

Mayor Bryan Standifer informed the council that Norton was tentatively planning a ribbon cutting for February 2014 when they will open their doors.

The mayor also said that in regards to the hospice facility they have been held accountable for their property and have complied whenever a request has been made. Mr. Sweezey stated that they’ve been asked to maintain the grounds as far as grass cutting and the progress on the facility.

Mayor Standifer stated that the originator George West still would like to open a hospice here and is seeking more investors to move forward in 2014.