City of Sparta will use its legal authority to tear down building

Sparta Board of Mayor and Aldermen made several decisions during its recent meeting that brought about concern from some residents.

First up was a vote on pursuing the purchase of 120 acres on Winding Lane. The property in question includes riverfront access. Mayor Jerry Lowery had previously told the board he would like to see the land developed into a city park with hiking trails and kayaking opportunities.

After the original motion to authorize the negotiation of the purchase, an amendment was made, after a motion by Alderman Brian Jones and a second by Alderman Judy Payne. The amendment, which passed unanimously, was to follow proper procurement procedures and obtain a realtor to help with the negotiation and legal process of acquiring the land.

Later during the public comments portion of the meeting, both Bob Payne and Paul Lambert voiced their concerns and spoke against the proposed park. 

In other business, the board approved the placement of several new stop signs within the city limits. The first set of stop signs will be placed on Golden Mountain Road where it intersects with Hale Street. The intersection was deemed dangerous because of traffic flowing east on Golden Mountain Road not being visible by vehicles turning off Hale Street. The new traffic pattern will include a three-way stop at the intersection.

Also receiving new signs will be the intersection of Ray Broyles Road and Turntable Road. This intersection was deemed dangerous as trees, which are on private property, have grown to heights that will obscure the view of traffic stopped on Turntable Road. The concern is that as the trees continue to grow, the visibility at the intersection will continue to worsen. As a solution, the board voted to make the intersection a three-way stop and will also use “Stop Ahead” signage and rumble strips to alert motorists of the new traffic pattern.

During the public comments section of the meeting, David Aubrey made comments about the proposed placement of the new signs.

The board also decided the building at 33 W. Bockman Way, locally known as the “Old Sparta Hardware Building,” needs to be deemed an immediate danger and an emergency case as described in the Sparta Municipal Code 12.12.08. The decision means the city can usurp any actions or decisions by the property owner and will move forward with soliciting sealed bids for the demolition of the building. Any expenses will be charged to the property owner, according to the city’s codes officer, Mike O’Neal.

In other news, the board was told the Five Below store was preparing for final inspections in anticipation of opening at their new location in West Towne Plaza. They were also told Dairy Queen was set to begin construction as soon as the weather would allow.

The next meeting of Sparta Board of Mayor and Aldermen will be 5 p.m., June 6.