The Graceville City Commission held its regular January meeting on Tuesday, January 13, at Graceville City Hall, opening with prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance before unanimously approving the agenda.

City Manager Michelle Watkins provided an extensive update on ongoing and upcoming city projects. She reported that the new fire department facility is expected to be fully operational within the next 30 days. An invoice for a grant-funded fire truck has been submitted to the funding agency for review, with delivery anticipated in late January or early February. Watkins explained that the vehicle will arrive as a base model, with additional outfitting planned through a separate contract amendment, ideally to be completed on site in Graceville.

Progress was also reported on several infrastructure grants. Procurement packets have been submitted to the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity for sewer system improvements, including generators, bypass pumps for lift stations, and a SCADA monitoring system. Similar improvements are planned for the city’s water system under the MO 172 project, which includes generators for wells and upgrades to elevated tanks.

Watkins shared that the splash pad project has moved forward in the environmental review process, with required letters sent to state historical organizations and multiple tribal entities for feedback. Once the 30-day response period concludes, the project may advance to the next phase. The Cliff paving project is projected to begin around March.

Additional updates included improvements to city communications and security systems. The city has entered into an agreement with CLS Scott Scurlock to upgrade its phone system and add security cameras at Public Works and the wastewater treatment plant. Watkins said the conversion is approximately 85 percent complete.

Regarding the demolition of the old City Hall building, Watkins confirmed that asbestos abatement was completed before Christmas at a cost of approximately $4,500, noting that only a small amount required removal. Demolition contractor Marty Taylor is currently working on another project but is expected to begin work in Graceville within 30 to 45 days. Plans are also in place to remove the alarm structure from the top of the old building using heavy equipment.

Commissioners also discussed Dixie League baseball, with Watkins announcing the city is transitioning to an online registration platform. Parents will soon be able to register children using a mobile app or computer, reducing the need for in-person registration during business hours. Registration fees will remain $50, with modest processing fees for online payments. Opening day schedules are still being coordinated with other leagues, and further details are expected at the next meeting. Watkins also noted that a local church youth group has expressed interest in continuing to operate the concession stand.

Several upcoming dates were announced, including a community blood drive scheduled for January 23 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., election qualifying from noon February 2 through noon February 6, and city amnesty days set for March 12 through March 14. Watkins emphasized that amnesty days are limited to Graceville residents and that commercial dumping will not be permitted.

Police Chief Jake Barley addressed concerns regarding illegal dumping near a commercial property, stating the property owner has been notified and warned of potential fines or jail time if the debris is not removed promptly. He also provided updates on code enforcement efforts, including follow-ups on burned and blighted properties, noting progress has been made in several cases.

During citizen comments, Lions Club member Samantha Angerbrandt announced plans for an adult prom fundraising event, Prom-O-Rama, scheduled for April 18 at the Graceville Civic Center. The event will feature live music by the Ivy Brothers and raise funds for local scholarships and community programs.

Commissioners and city leadership closed the meeting with messages of optimism for the new year, encouraging community involvement, communication, and shared responsibility in improving the city. Mayor Walter Olds urged residents to report concerns, work respectfully with neighbors, and take pride in helping make Graceville a better place to live.

The meeting concluded with remarks emphasizing cooperation, faith, and a positive outlook for 2026.

To watch the meeting in its entirety visiting The Graceville News Facbook page.

Full meeting transcript available in the January 22nd edition.

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