The Ledger

By Christine Taylor

At the May 12 meeting of the Cochran City Council, city leaders recognized community achievements, discussed ongoing concerns and shared updates on projects and upcoming events across the city. Mayor Carla Coley presided over the meeting alongside Interim City Manager Angela Redding and members of the council.

“Stirrin’ up good trouble,” Chamber President Melissa Barker said, describing the Chamber’s approach to the city after a round of community announcements. With the number of awards, recognitions, proclamations and events shared throughout the evening, that spirit carried through much of the meeting.

Of course, city issues and concerns did not go unaddressed.

Three local students received awards recognizing their artistic talent in coloring and were presented with Bleckley Bucks, which Coley noted can be used at more than 100 local businesses — or even toward utility bill payments.

Fire Chief Brock Wilcher was recognized for his “courage, steadfast dedication, selfless service” and “calm leadership.” Wilcher also announced that Elijah Coles has filled a previously open position within the department. Coles is a helicopter pilot who completed training through Station 1.

Wilcher reminded residents that burn permits are issued daily based on weather conditions and are only valid for the day they are issued.

Police Chief Jeff Trawick announced the department received a $200,000 Motorola grant that will allow the city to replace outdated radio equipment and improve communication capabilities for officers.

Several council members voiced concern over recent move-outs in the Tree Street area — including Palm Street, Peach Street and Myrtle Street — where tenants reportedly left belongings outside following their departures. Redding said city staff continue working to obtain landlord contact information to help prevent the city from absorbing future cleanup costs while still maintaining neighborhood standards.

Councilman Shane Savant discussed plans to install a speed hump near 172 Peach Street. Officials noted that, unlike speed bumps, speed humps are considered safer for emergency vehicles traveling through the area.

Mary Pitts, a Cochran resident and supporter of the city’s newest community park, requested swings for the park and also suggested the addition of a shoe and clothing shop in the community.

Coley encouraged residents to turn Mental Health Awareness Month into action by fostering open communication, supporting prevention efforts and helping reduce the stigma surrounding mental health conditions.

Savant also addressed roadway safety, noting that several young residents recently lost their lives in automobile accidents while not wearing seat belts. He encouraged residents to have conversations “with family members” in hopes the community might “prevent as much tragedy in this small town as we can.”

Several upcoming community events were also announced during the meeting, including the Royals baseball game May 14 at 5 p.m. at Bleckley County High School, a free community concert May 17 at 2 p.m. at Russell Auditorium, Mrs. Greer’s final one-act play May 18 at 6:30 p.m. at the BCHS Auditorium, Bingo at 6:30 p.m. at 102 Second St., the BCHS Spring Chorus Concert May 19 at 5 p.m., Business After Hours May 28 at Nabo’s BBQ in Eastman and Caffeinated Connections June 3 at 8 a.m. at Promise of Hope on Nesmith Road.