Citizens voice concerns during Mineral Springs City Council meeting

Monday night’s meeting of the Mineral Springs City Council was punctuated by citizen comments about the water/sewer system, the city’s dog ordinance and crime within the city limits.

Council members heard concerns about the competency of the city’s water superintendent, enforcement of the city’s ordinance dealing with the ban on pit bull breeds and the lack of round the clock police presence.

Council members assured the citizens that they were working to resolve the water/sewer issues. Mayor Steve Dixon reported the sewer line camera system has been ordered, the north water tower project has been completed and they were working to repair a pressure switch issue on the south tower.

In reference to the dog issue, animal control presented a report that two dogs were picked up in the month of January after they were reported to the animal control office. Police Chief Jeff Witherspoon stated city residents are usually given a warning for having a banned breed dog before it is removed by animal control.

Citizens experienced their desire for more patrols within the city. Witherspoon stated there is one officer currently in the academy and the Howard County Sheriffs offices helps cover times when there is not an officer on active duty. Witherspoon stated he would like to have more officers and have them paid better so they would stay with the city. He also indicated the the council would not approve additional officers or better pay.