Hurricane City Council chambers were filled on Monday, December 5, as the council honored Hurricane Middle School Tennis, Cross Country and Volleyball Teams for their outstanding seasons. The boys’ and girls’ tennis and cross country teams and the HMS Volleyball Team all won Mid Valley Athletic Conference (MVAC) championships.
Prior to congratulating the teams, Mayor Scott Edwards briefed parents and team supporters on the ongoing construction at Hurricane Bridge Park. Edwards said that the base for three ball fields is nearing completion but financing of the all-weather turf has yet to be worked out. Edwards also announced that the Street Scape project involving new sidewalks on Main Street has been completed and advised attendees that the City will be hosting horse and carriage rides on Saturday, December 17, from 4 to 7 p.m.
Mayor Edwards also presented a Certificate of Recognition to Hurricane High sophomore Ty Steorts for his first place finish in the State High School Cross Country Meet. Ty is ranked top 10 nationally and is All-State and All-American.
In the regular business session, council held the first reading of an ordinance which will change the date of city elections. Current city officials were elected to four year terms in June of 2019. If the changes are approved at the next council meeting, mayor, recorder and council members will be elected to a three and one-half year term. When 2026 rolls around, the city election will coincide with the November General Election and city residents will vote at their regular precincts. From 2026 forward, city officials will be elected to four year terms.
Fire Chief Michael Hoffman informed council that his department has obtained grants of $4,900 and $5,945 for a portable fan and portable lights, respectively. Hoffman reported that the Annual Fire Department Boot Drive on Saturday, December 3, produced more than $5,600 for the Community Cupboard.
Police Chief Mike Mullins reported that his department responded to a total of 314 calls during November. The HPD made 5 arrests which were on State charges and 7 arrests stemming from City charges. The City arrests included two for possession of Meth, one for marijuana possession and one for heroin possession. There were two shoplifting arrests. HPD issued 42 citations and 98 warnings during the month. There were 22 accidents and 20 EMR calls to which the department responded.
City offices will be closed December 23 and 26, and January 2nd.
The next regular council meeting will be Tuesday, January 3, at 6:30 p.m.
