Clarkson commissioners are making another stride toward advancing their equipment base, by purchasing a new garbage truck, worth an estimated $119,000.

The motion was approved during the November 9 regularly scheduled meeting.

City Clerk and Treasurer Alicia Hayes explained that payments for the new truck would be made through money set aside from a garbage revenue account.

The city has $31,565.67 available to pay down on the principal cost for the garbage truck.

"We have been setting aside 10 percent of garbage revenue for some time now," Hayes said. "We will continue to set aside 10 percent, and that is what the yearly payment will come out of."

Hayes checked into what it would cost to purchase a new truck, but was still looking into what the financing rates would be.

Municipal Equipment out of Louisville has a 2010 International truck that would cost an estimated $119,000.

Officials agreed to take bids for financing, as well as for the truck, and open the bids during the December meeting.

The reason for the purchase is because the current vehicle, bought in 1993, keeps breaking down.

If commissioners wait until next year to make the purchase, it would cost an additional $15,000 in fees. This is due to some new EPA changes that will go into effect in 2010.

In other business:

• Mayor Bonnie Henderson explained a home, owned by Donnie Willis, which is adjacent to Bland's One Stop in Clarkson is a major safety violation for the city.

According to Henderson, Willis was planning on making the home a commercial building, available for leasing out or renting.

The property is in violation of the city property maintenance ordinance, because the residence is falling apart.

Commissioners agreed to speak with Willis about the issue.

• A three-year audit contract was approved for CPA Bob Ryan to continue doing annual audits for the city.

Ryan charges $4,425 per year for his services.

• Henderson talked about the volunteer appreciation dinner on November 15 at 4 p.m. in the Clarkson Elementary School cafeteria.

Each volunteer will be presented with a certificate of appreciation for their efforts.

The chili supper is going to be catered by K's Cafe. Door prizes will also be given out on that night.

Anyone who helped out in Clarkson during January's ice storm is invited to attend.

"We want to recognize people who left their own family to help out during the ice storm," Henderson said. "Their efforts were greatly appreciated."