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By JOYANNA LOVE | Managing Editor

The Maplesville Town Council unanimously approved continuing to have an extra officer working on Friday and Saturday nights during its March 13 meeting.

Maplesville Police Chief Riley Barnett said the three-month trial run of the additional staffing had gone well.

Council member Patty Crocker asked how much the additional the plan had cost. Town Clerk Dawn Smitherman said the cost was $304 per weekend.

“I am all for it,” Crocker said.

Council member Ray Charles Mitchell said if Barnett thought it should be continued, then he agreed.

“I think it is a good thing because a lot of times your backup is 30 minutes away,” Barnett said. “Having another person here at peak hours helps.”

Council member John Caudle said having an additional person “could save a life.”

Barnett said the department made an arrest, and it is continuing to investigate a burglary at the local feed and seed store. Work also continues on an investigation of a burglary at the Maplesville Pharmacy.

The council has decided to accept bids to sell the Foshee house. The minimum bid requirement is $82,000.

An update was also given that the town will be proceeding with getting quotes to pour concrete and enclose the area behind the police department for storage. The project will be partially paid for with a $7,500 grant from Cawaco. Smitherman said the project is expected to cost more than this.

Concrete work is set to start at the Maplesville Volunteer Fire Department. Two of the vehicles will be moved to a paved area at the home of a volunteer while the concrete is drying.

Also during the meeting, Queen Morrow presented information on the cancer awareness group she is a part of through the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center at UAB. The group is raising awareness for cancer screenings, and the fact that the center will pay for the screenings for those that do not have insurance. Applications to apply for these funds will be available at the Maplesville Town Hall.