By Lee Weyhrich, Staff Writer
PINSON — Although the focus of the current Pinson City Council is shifting to upcoming projects and events, that does not mean the park projects have taken a back seat.
At the last meeting Councilman Joe Cochran suggested getting a Point-of-Sale system for Bicentennial park to keep up with splash wrist band sales, concessions sales, and any other inventory and sales related items that might pop up. After doing a little research, Cochran concluded that a system from Square would not only handle inventory and sales tracking, but would also allow the use of credit and debit cards. The council authorized Cochran to purchase the Square system, which includes an iPad, a stand for the iPad, credit card processing equipment, a printer and an extra scanner for $1,100.
Cochran said the software, which tracks sales, is even compatible with current systems used by the city clerk for bookkeeping.
In other park news, hole number 10 of Bicentennial Park’s disc golf course will have to be altered slightly. The council voted to move the basket 20 to 25 feet away from the stage to keep errant discs from winding up on the roof of the structure. The difficulty and overall length of the 10th hole will remain unchanged.
The council also discussed buying a Christmas tree for the park. Mayor Sanders presented the council with prices and options. The council will make a decision at the next regular meeting.
In addition to improving the park, the council also discussed upcoming events at the park.
The council authorized the release of $1,000 to fund weekend events in July. These include concerts as well as movies in the park. Councilman Joe Cochran has requested that one Friday movie be geared towards teenagers.
Tuesday July 12 will also kick off the council’s drive to create activities for senior citizens such as games. More details will be forthcoming as they become available.
Of course, Bicentennial Park is not the only park that requires the attention of city officials. An air conditioning unit at Pinson Youth Sports Complex needs to be replaced. The council voted to replace the unit at a cost of $6,300.
The council also discussed two upcoming summer events.
Innsbrooke will be hosting this year’s National Night Out, August 2. NNO is a nation-wide program designed to allow neighbors to meet each other as well as their municipal representatives. The mayor generally grills hotdogs and sausages, and food and drinks are provided for attendees.
“National Night Out being hosted by Innsbrooke does not mean it is only for Innsbrooke,” Cochran said. “Anyone from any part of the community is welcome to come.”
Beat the Heat at Turkey Creek will take place July 16.