Bonifay City Council meets, but no quorum

Bonifay City Council met Monday June 9 without a quorum. Since there were not enough officials to conduct business, the meeting could not be called to order and those present could take no official action. Instead, a workshop was held.

The Council heard the preliminary audit given by the auditor, Hilton Galloway. “This is just a quick, unofficial, financial report,” he said,
Galloway asked why half of the city’s water pumped last year wasn’t billed, about 30 percent of which they had “no clue where it went,” according to Galloway. Possible sources for water not accounted for include a leaky pump at the county courthouse, heavy use at Holmes Correctional Institution, and firefighter training.

Galloway also requested an investigation into whether anyone is getting free water. Another possibility was that the water system was leaking.

 “There is a possibility that water is being used without the city getting compensated … you want to make certain there is justification for so much water being used,” said Galloway.

The on-going sewer project was estimated to cost around $9 million. The City has approximately $3 million available so far.

“The two-ton gorilla sitting in the room is the sewer project and the $6 million still needed,” said Galloway. “I’d really like the state of Florida to step up and fund that, if possible,” he said.

The next scheduled meeting will be June 23, when more information will be available.