Burning leaves in ditches and other issues discussed at Tuesday Street Committee meeting

Warren Street Committee looked at several areas of concern Tuesday with recommendations to be made to the full City Council.

Committee members include Chairwoman Emily Moseley, Alderwoman Latanza Atkins and Alderman Joel Tolefree.

“We’ve had a lot of people burning leaves in the ditches,” Moseley said.

Top photo: Warren Street Committee met Tuesday on several issues. Shown, from left, are Alderman Joel Tolefree, Alderwoman Latanza Atkins, Chairwoman Emily Moseley and Street Foreman Monty Hearnsberger. Photo by Tim Kessler.

Street Foreman Monty Hearnsberger noted that doing so causes drainage issues or if the leaves are burned on roadways, it can damage the asphalt. He cited one ordinance that says leaves cannot be placed in a ditch.

Mayor Gregg Reep said the issue needs to be researched. He added that a permanent permit may be received to place a burn barrel on property or temporary permits may be issued to burn items in a yard. There did not appear to be a specific ordinance in place regarding burning leaves in the ditches or on asphalt.

In other action:

• An increase in street cut charges was considered but was tabled. It was pointed out that some cities require utility companies to fix any cuts that they make but Warren’s ordinance assigns fees to be paid by utility companies or homeowners.
• A project to improve drainage on Maple Street will be referred to the full City Council. Hearnsberger said ditches could be dug out, gray rock placed on top and then concrete placed on top of that. After that work is done, the street could be paved. It was pointed out that the city allocated $400,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds for street paving, plus there is also $150,000 in the Street Department budget set aside for that purpose.
• An issue with cars parking on streets and blocking access was addressed. It was noted that doing so sometimes creates problems for emergency vehicles. Further options will be researched.
• The next committee meeting will be at 5 p.m. March 7.