► Polk approves purchase of two new sheriff’s office vehicles

The Polk County Board of Commissioners approved the sheriff’s office purchasing  two new Dodge Chargers. Commissioners met on Dec. 19 and approved the purchase of the vehicles for $23,482 each or $47,664 total. The county purchased the vehicles on state contract for the best price.

► Polk re-appoints Ashburn to the appearance commission

After not being re-appointed in August this year, Carolyn Ashburn will re-join the Polk County Appearance Commission. The new board of commissioners met Dec. 19 and unanimously appointed Ashburn to the Polk County Appearance Commission.

► Polk hears concern over state bills

Polk County resident Mary Mowery spoke to Polk County Commissioners on Dec. 19 asking the county to take a stand against the “political shenanigans” that occurred in Raleigh last week. Mowery was speaking of the special session to approve disaster relief for victims of the hurricane and recent fires that she said was also used for Republicans to keep as much control of the state government as possible. “It seems like what happened last week is shaking the very foundation of our democracy,” Mowery told commissioners. Commissioner chair Tommy Melton suggested Mowery contact legislators in Raleigh as the county is not in a position to do anything after the fact.

► Columbus announces winners of Christmas decorations

The Town of Columbus held a contest for best Christmas decorations for residences and businesses. The Discover Columbus committee chose the home at 360 Peniel Road as the residential winner and the Flower Cottage as the business winner. Each winner receives a $50 credit on their water bill for winning the contest.