Saluda loans historic committee $2,500 to finish film

The Saluda Board of Commissioners agreed on March 14 to loan its historic committee $2,500 to finish its oral history film. Commissioners discussed that they want to see the committee’s financial statements on occasion. The city will be paid back through the sale of the film.

Saluda decides not to place restroom trailer at Pace Park

The City of Saluda asked for bids recently to place a temporary restroom at Pace Park downtown during the months of May-August for festivals. Quotes ranged up to $13,000 so commissioners decided not to approve any bids. Commissioners said if they were going to spend that much money they could lay the foundation for permanent restroom facilities the city is currently planning to construct at Pace Park. The city was not looking for port-a-johns, but a trailer that could be connected to the city’s utilities.

Polk BOC ties on appointment for ETDC board

The Polk County Board of Commissioners failed to appoint Ambrose Mills to the county’s newly structured economic and tourism development commission (ETDC). Commissioners met Monday, March 21 and voted 2-2 to appoint Mills so the motion failed. Commissioners Ray Gasperson and Shane Bradley voted to appoint Mills while commissioners Michael Gage and Keith Holbert voted against appointing Mills.

Columbus approves contract with Zambelli for July 4^th fireworks

The Town of Columbus approved a $10,000 contract with Zambelli during its March 17 meeting for fireworks during the town’s Fabulous Fourth of July Celebration. The pricing is the same as previous years.

Columbus approves contract with ABC Party Rentals and Amusements

Columbus Town Council approved a contract with ABC Party Rentals and Amusements during its March 17 meeting to provide children’s rides during the Fabulous Fourth of July Festival this year. According to the contract, ABC will receive 80 percent of ticket sales and the town will receive 20 percent for the first 10,000 tickets. The percentages increase to 75/25 for ticket sales from 10,001-20,000 and to 70/30 for sales 20,001 and greater. ABC Party Rentals will provide a scat, spinner, swing, kiddie Ferris wheel, whale, rock wall, mechanical bull, slide, obstacle course and moon bounce. The rides will be set up Wednesday, June 29. On July 4 the rides will be open from 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Columbus agrees for appearance commission to install benches downtown

Columbus Town Council agreed on March 17 to allow the Polk County Appearance Commission to install benches in the downtown area. The town will match the costs of the benches that will be installed along sidewalks and mounted into the ground. According to Columbus Town Manager Tim Barth, the benches will be made by Saluda Forge.

Columbus donates money in memory of Polk commissioner Tom Pack

Columbus Town Council decided during its March 17 meeting to donate $200 to the American Cancer Society in memory of Polk County Commissioner Chair Tom Pack, who died recently after suffering injuries from a fall. Town Manager Tim Barth said in lieu of flowers people were asked to send memorials to the cancer society. Council members agreed to send $200 from the town in Pack’s memory.