Due to less gas revenue than expected the Summerville City Council Monday, in it's regular monthly meeting, had the first reading of an ordinance to amend its FYE 2013 budget. 

City Manager Russell Thompson told councilmen that gas revenue is down due to the warm weather and he has re-forcasted the city's revenue and expenditures based on the last six months of 2012. He suggested that the city transfer just more than $75,500 from its fund balance to balance the budget. The city appears to be in pretty good shape financially and the shortfall isn't expected to cause any changes, according to Thompson. Thomson said that between now and the end of the year, the gas fund could correct itself depending on the weather.

A request by Larry Howard for the city to help the new Boys and Girls Club with its gas rates also was tabled. Howard said the county is currently helping with the utility bills. He suggested that the city help with the gas rates and then the county can help with the addition of a bike trail and playground in the back of the facility.

Mayor Harry Harvey wasn't too keen on the idea, but said if the council wanted to help they should only agree to for a specific period of time. It was discussed that the council should consider setting  up a special gas rate for non profits.

 In other business, the council  looked at plans for the proposed Family Dollar building on Commerce Street. A motion to table approval of the rendering was unanimously approved after councilman Dale House suggested the Historical Society take a look at it, since the building will be in an historical area of the city.

All of the tabled issues are expected to be discussed at a council work session at 6 p.m. next Monday, February 18.  

NOTE FROM AM 1180:

There is no firm agreement between the owners of the property where the proposed Family Dollar store would be located and the Family Dollar company.  AM 1180's studios are presently located at the proposed site for the Family Dollar store.  The owners of the property have told AM 1180 that there is no pending deal on the property at this time.  However, AM 1180 does have a contingency plan.  Should the property sell, our plans are to remain on Commerce Street in downtown Summerville.