HAHIRA — The City of Hahira will become more accessible to some of its employees soon and in the future.

The city has moved past the 50 employee minimum and is required to be compliant with the Americans with Disability Act. The city has 51 employees, City Manager Jonathan Sumner said Tuesday during the Hahira City Council work session.

Sumner presented a transition plan to council. Sumner said he looked at other cities that have transitioned and used their plans as a basis for the Hahira plan.  

Council members had concerns about the city’s ability to install a full-service elevator in city hall, but Sumner said they may be exempt from that particular project if it is not feasible. 

Council will hear from Chris Hamilton, chief executive officer and executive director of the Valdosta-Lowndes County Conference Center and Tourism Authority, about city-maintained billboards. 

Sumner said Hamilton originally planned to attend the work session to present his information but was unable to attend. He will present during the regular meeting Thursday.

Council reviewed the purchase of a portable building to be used as a check-in station at the recycling center. 

There is currently a building in use where the portable building would go but Sumner said it is “deteriorating beyond repair.”

Council will vote to approve the purchase of a 8×12 building for $1,860 from Roark’s Portable Buildings or a 10×12 for $2,080 from Portable Building Group. 

Sumner said public works could get by with the 8×12 building but would prefer the 10×12 building. 

The Hahira Police Department has requested the purchase of a new engine for one of its vehicles. 

The engine locked up after doing some repairs on it, Police Chief Terry Davis said. 

The council will vote on one of the following quotes: Jerry Kelley in Adel offered to replace the engine for $7,496. Prince Automotive in Valdosta offered to replace the engine for $8,436. Cass Burch in Quitman offered to replace the engine for $9,857. 

Davis recommends Jerry Kelley. The quote also includes a warranty, he said. 

Hahira City Council will hold its regular session 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 10, in the Hahira Courthouse. 

Jason Smith is a reporter at The Valdosta Daily Times. He can be contacted at 229-244-3400 ext.1257.