Miami — After much discussion at its June 12 meeting, the Miami Town Council approved the Wild Horses Saloon’s liquor license application for the extension of its premises/patio. Council member Susan Hansen opposed to the action.

A Miami resident, Gary Vessels, was against the expansion due to increased traffic, bikers, parking, and noise.

Vice Mayor Sammy Gonzales said that he supports the businesses in Miami, and he said that if the bar’s patio needs to expand, then the bar must be doing well. Regarding bikers who attend the saloon regularly, he stated that not all bikers are bad people. Hansen wanted to table the item so businesses and residents could voice their concerns with the extension.

Business owner Mrs. Schalene commented that she loves that the saloon is expanding, but would like the council to listen to others’ concerns before approving the expansion.

Mr. Chapman, Miami business owner, commented on the vulgar language he hears form the bar, saying it’s embarrassing.

Councilmember Mike Black stated that certain issues will arise with this type of business, but the council shouldn’t put the application on hold due to clientele. 

Black added that this business is growing and expanding, which brings revenue to Miami.

The extension will take place inside the current building and the patio will remain unchanged.

Code Enforcement Officer Joshua Derhammer presented the council with the bid the town received for the property located at 267 Wentworth. Mr. Jeff Kingston submitted a bid in the amount of $1,801 and plans to refurbish the home.

Resolution No. 1192, extending repayment of underfunded Public Safety Personnel Retirement System contributions to the 30-year plan was approved, although it was opposed by Vice Mayor Gonzales. There were two options to make repayment — 20 years or 30 years. Heatherly recommended the 30-year plan to help the town afford it. Gonzales wanted to know the interest charge before the approval of the plan.

Resolution No. 1193, adoption of tentative budget for fiscal year 2017/2018, and setting a date for a public hearing on the tentative budget and approval of a final budget was approved. A public hearing was approved for July 10.

Funding to the town of Miami in the amount of $13,674.37 for legal and other project-related expenses was approved.

A payment of $80,406.16 was approved to AMEC for one month of design and construction management services. The council went into executive session to continue and complete the evaluation of Town Manager Joseph Heatherly.

The council returned and approved the renewal contract for Heatherly, according to the terms directed in executive session.

Joseph Heatherly reported that the public works department is still waiting for a part to finish the repair on the garbage truck. Smoke tests will be done on the sewer lines on Gordon and Elam Street.

Mayor Darryl Dalley thanked everyone who helped with the Memorial Day Ceremony.

Councilmember Hansen reported that Miami Genesis received a grant in the amount of $45,000 for the lighting project at Bullion Plaza. Hansen thanked Freeport and Mrs. Anna Petty and the consortium group for their support of the project.

During the call to the public, Miami resident and Army Veteran Mr. Anthony Mesangial commented that he has been patrolling Miami to help with the juvenile situation. He also said there needs to be more neighborhood watches.

Mr Ray Webb, a Miami resident and business owner, echoed Mr. Mesangial’s comments and also thanked the police department for working on these issues, but said we need to keep doing more. There needs to activities and places for the kids to go at night to stay busy.

Councilmember Rosemary Castaneda reported on the Music in the Park that took place last Saturday night. Councilmember Castaneda voiced her concerns with all the “goings on” that took place that evening and comments regarding a lady who was punched in the face.

She also commented that citizens are getting tired of this kind of behavior and he town need to take a serious look at this issue and try to do something about it.