Lanett, Ala. — The Lanett City Council approved a series of resolutions and agreements during its Sept. 8th meeting, including a franchise agreement with Point Broadband Fiber Holdings LLC and an application for state and federal funding for improvements at the Lanett Regional Airport.
The council approved the first reading of Ordinance 09-26-01, granting Point Broadband a nonexclusive right to construct and maintain fiber optic transmission lines along certain city rights of way.
Brian Maffee, representing Point Broadband, said the company plans to expand fiber optic broadband service in Lanett. He said the service would be offered under the Point Broadband name, although the company is expected to transition to the Clearwave Fiber name following a merger.
Maffee said the service would offer competitive rates and no contracts for residents.
The council also approved resolutions declaring two properties public nuisances and authorizing further action. Code Enforcement Officer Mark Crowder said both properties, located in the West Shawmut area, were in poor condition.
One property may be demolished through a volunteer effort led by Marvin Thompson, who plans to use materials from the structure to renovate a neighboring home for a resident through a nonprofit career-training program. Crowder said the work could take about three months. If the effort is not completed, the city will proceed with its nuisance abatement process.
The council approved a transportation plan under the Rebuild Alabama Act. The plan provides that state gasoline and diesel tax revenues received by the city will be kept in a separate fund and used for road maintenance, repairs, resurfacing, reconstruction and other transportation projects.
The council also approved an application for fiscal 2027 state and federal matching funds for improvements at Lanett Regional Airport. The proposed project includes installing fencing around portions of the airport, including the terminal building and parking lot, as well as vehicle and pedestrian gates.
Council members were told the project is expected to receive $150,000 in federal funding. The grant is expected to be 90% federally funded, with state and local matching funds covering the remainder. The city’s estimated share was placed at about $8,500.
Councilman Lynn said the airport recorded nearly 3,300 operations in August, including three of the month’s 10 busiest days. The airport also sold more than 1,100 gallons of low-lead aviation fuel and 500 gallons of jet fuel during the month.
He said work is scheduled to begin on an airport ramp expansion project, which is expected to take about three weeks and could increase aircraft parking and fuel-sale revenues.
The council also tabled a resolution that would have allowed employees to convert unused sick leave into retirement service credit under Alabama law. Council members requested additional information about the potential cost to the city and asked that the matter be reviewed by the Finance Committee as part of the upcoming budget process.
