Atwood water operator Jim Cooper addressed the Board of Mayor and Aldermen at their September 11 town meeting. He spoke about a breakdown in communication regarding an incident near School Loop.
On Sept. 4, the town posted on social media that what was initially believed to be a sewer leak was later determined to be a water leak on the opposite side of the road.
Water had been running down rocks into a nearby yard, but officials confirmed there was no health hazard, and the leak was repaired with assistance from Rogers Hydrant Service.
In that post, town officials reminded citizens to report water or sewer issues directly to city hall rather than contacting the mayor or aldermen, stressing that licensed operators must follow state guidelines and maintain proper documentation.
Cooper echoed those concerns at the meeting, telling the board that the town “paid dearly” because the matter was not routed through city hall.
“I don’t mind [citizens] calling me, but you need to call city hall,” Cooper said. “Unless it comes from City Hall, I’m not going out on a call. When I come out, I’m going to charge [the town].”
Cooper said the incident on School Loop “cost the city a lot of money that was just uncalled for.”
Cooper went on to say that the state requires complaint logs and documentation for water issues, and informal calls or social media comments complicate compliance.
“I’m not a fan of Facebook,” he said. “If anyone has anything to say to me, you should come to me to say it.”
He reiterated that residents need to reach out to town officials.
“That’s what [the aldermen] are elected for. That’s what these ladies are hired for,” he added, gesturing toward Recorder Amanda Browning and Clerk Rita Galloway.
Alderman Jim Lewis agreed that calling city hall avoids confusion and ensures nothing is overlooked.
Other Business
Town Recorder Browning briefed the board on training requirements.
She said that aldermen must complete their required state training or risk being subpoenaed to Nashville.
Additionally, she added that aldermen would stop receiving compensation, and the town could lose eligibility for grant funding.
Browning also reported progress in implementing new local government software, and explained that city hall will close Oct. 17–20 during the utility billing transition.
Atwood’s next meeting is October 9 at 7 p.m.
