Molena to host July 2 independence celebration, flag retirement

By Dwain W. Penn

news@pikecountygeorgia.com

For over a year, residents of Molena have looked westward to the city of Woodbury as the source of wireless broadband internet service. Molena mayor Joyce Corley sharing status of the project during the May 9 meeting allayed concerns.

“There is a new mayor in Woodbury,” said Corley, “and nothing has changed with the network. Some Molena customers are experiencing difficulties with signal strength, either due to not having a line of site to the water tower or seasonal tree leaves disrupting reception. We are devoted to find ways to improve local service.”

“Woodbury promised at the beginning to buy back our backhaul if the city wanted to stand alone,” councilman Damon Riggins reminded council. “I believe things are going to be fine.”

“I received a message from David Stewart on the southside timeframe,” said city clerk Tina Lee. “It will take from four to six weeks. Investigation continues on where to install pops. Trees are hindering signals. Tests will be done again to locate areas of best reception. Homeowners will be asked to help if strong signals are found on private property.”

Some residents have offered easements to property to benefit the city with quality broadband service. Such cooperation is vital to success helping Molena to flourish in its own corner of the county.

COUNCIL ALSO:

• Heard a combined flag retirement service and July 4 celebration will be held Saturday, July 2, from 4 p.m. until the fireworks show. Pony rides, food trucks, and historic items in city hall will interest the public.

• Learned the county health department has requested that the cottage, the old Wild Daisy Farm and Tipsy Daisy buildings each be serviced by a separate septic tank. Also a long term rental was found to be in violation of city code. Therefore the city will use water service as leverage, giving 60 days notice to solve zoning violation before shutting off water.

• Heard a decision on Jack Martin’s request to have the city cut trees at an East Jones Road property. Inspection revealed the trees did not appear to need cutting and it was doubtful if the trees are on city right of way which is 15 feet from the center of the road.

• Tabled a decision on water tank maintenance contract quotes from American Tank, Suez and a third company, pending city attorney assessment.

• Agreed to look into use of prison/trustee labor for city projects.