Auburn to Partner with Gwinnett in Adopting Plan for Emergencies

The Auburn City Council approved six items in the first business meeting of the year Thursday. Among the items passed were the installation of field lights for a Parks Mill Road baseball field, a pre-disaster hazard resolution and a contract with American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers.

1. Pre-Disaster Hazard Mitigation Plan Resolution

The council unanimously voted to partner with Gwinnett County in adopting a plan for emergencies such as natural disasters and other hazards. Doing so allows Auburn to receive government funds if an emergency happens.

2. 2011 schedule of events

The council approved a year-long schedule of events for Auburn, including car shows, farmer’s markets and movies in the park.

3. Bid for lighting of baseball field

The council voted to accept a bid of $54,500 made by Highfill & Scarborough Lighting to install lighting for the baseball field on Parks Mill Road. This was the lowest bid received.

4. Financing lighting of baseball field

The council approved combining the cost of installing lights at the Parks Mill Road baseball field with the previous cost of buying the lights into a single loan. The loan totaled $133,815 and will be paid back at a 4.85 percent interest rate for 60 months. It will be financed through MUSCO Lighting.

5. Fireworks contract

The council voted to approve a contract for fireworks for the July 3 Independence Day Celebration. The contract, made with East Coast Pyrotechnics, totals $14,000.

6. ASCAP contract

The council unanimously approved a yearly contract with the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers in an agreement that covers all musical events held on property owned by the city of Auburn. The agreement negates the need for the city to report any covered use of music to ASCAP, so long as the city pays dues of $305 per year.