WESSON — In an effort to reduce unnecessary traffic in thetown’s cemetery, the board of alderman elected Tuesday to have thegates locked during high traffic hours.

“There’s so many students that go through there,” said MayorPro-Tem and Ward Three Alderman Lura Greer, who presided over themonthly meeting.

Other board members commented on how the cemetery was usedfrequently as a short cut during hours when school was starting andending every day.

Ward Two Alderman Jim Lightsey made a motion to lock thecemetery gates from 6-8 a.m. and 2-4 p.m. on weekdays beginningAug. 10, which is the first day of school at nearby WessonAttendance Center.

The motion was seconded by Ward One Alderman Robert Derrick andcarried with Ward Four Alderman Hollis Cowen Jr.’s approval.

Mayor David McGee and Alderman-at-Large David Douglas wereabsent from the meeting.

In other matters, board members decided to begin advertising forbids concerning the lease of two water wells. The board decided toreserve the right to reject any and all bids to ensure bids will beconsistent with previous discussions with potential companieswanting to use the water wells.

Board members also decided to hold a budget hearing at the nextscheduled meeting, which is 7 p.m., Sept. 5, in the town hall. Thehearing is a necessary procedure every year.

“According to the state auditor, it requires a hearing at leasttwo weeks prior to the adoption of the budget,” explainedGreer.

The public is invited to attend the hearing and voice anyconcerns or ask any questions about the proposed budget.