The Quitman Development Corporation (QDC) board voted to present the Quitman City Council with a candidate for the board’s open spot. Karter Surratt, who has an extensive banking background, was tabbed by the board. She is employed at Origin Bank. 

Board members Pam Bowdoin and Chris Mason will also be suggested to the council for another term.

In her president’s comments, Kevin Burroughs discussed the need for updating the board bylaws.

In the executive director’s report Allan Gilbert updated the board on the Zipps Liquor Store property.

“The Zipp’s parking lot and business area was poured this morning and are complete. They still have to put sidewalks,” Gilbert noted.

Gilbert reported on the Star Mart property on Highway 154 West.

“Little Caesar’s, the taqueria and laundromat, I’m planning on meeting with the superintendent of the job tomorrow. They put their sign up for beer and wine and ran their ad in the paper about a liquor license and still have not filed with the city. There are several hurdles they are going to do-over before we can get any of this done,” Gilbert said. “They are trying to get Little Caesar’s opened next week but I’m not sure if they are going to make it. They still have some training to do.” 

Gilbert discussed vehicle damage in the parking lot behind Rockin’ S&S. The incident occurred at one of the electric charger stations which have never been completed.

“There is still concrete and the bolts sticking up,” he said “A lady ran over that and filed a claim. TML (Texas Municipal League) denied the claim.” Gilbert called the woman and got no return call so he sent her information but has still not heard back.

“I have found out since then that several people had run over that. We need to do something for the future,” Gilbert added. 

The board continued to discuss various ways to make use of those two spots, including using the spots for lighting. 

Board Vice President Kerry Puckettt gave a brief update on strategic planning. He said he was in the process of finding concerned citizens to be part of focus groups to continue in all areas. 

Puckett hopes they will be able to find area citizens who might be passionate about certain areas. 

Board member Brad Medlin said one of his main concerns would be the consideration of downtown lighting. “This is something I have been wanting for a long time.” 

The board approved cleaning and clearing land at the Quitman Business Park. They decided the area needs mulching and then kept up with trimming throughout the year with shredding. 

The board discussed but did not act on the need for additional insurance for all City of Quitman properties. It was suggested for Gilbert to check with surrounding cities to see what they are doing on the subject of additional liability insurance.