• approved the second reading of an ordinance to increase the commercial dumpster rates in the city limits of Laurel. Vote: 7-0

• adopted an order granting special exception to Horace Cochran to allow the operation of a hand car wash and detail shop at 1538 N. 1st Ave. Vote: 7-0

• adopted an order granting a variance to D’s Interiors located at 1514 W. 10th St. in regards to regulations on the maximum size of a wall mounted sign in a C-2 zone. Vote: 7-0

• adopted a resolution authorizing the finance director to proceed with a construction loan agreement with the Miss. Development Pool Loan for the purpose of borrowing funds for the Parks and Recreation Department. Vote: 7-0

• adopted an order amending the Fiscal Year 2008 budget. Magee did raise questions with this item.

“I’m going to start at the top,” he said, “and work down.”

Magee asked about overtime for public relations, recreation and maintenance, swimming, and landfill. He also asked about increases for council insurance.

Ward 3 Councilman Tony Thaxton also mentioned that there were many of these items during the last meeting. He said council members should be totally informed of the outcome of these increases because they could impact the budget that is required by law to be approved Sept. 15.

The order passed with a 6-1 vote with Magee against.

• adopted an order authorizing the city clerk to advertise for bids for property insurance coverage and broiler and machinery coverage for the city. Vote: 7-0

• adopted an order approving lot cleaning assessment bills. Vote: 7-0

• adopted a resolution declaring the City of Laurel invoking its rights pursuant to 47 United States Code Section 546 and pending the resolution of the Franchise Agreement negotiations with Comcast of Laurel will commence proceedings within a reasonable time pursuant to law. Vote: 7-0. The City of Laurel is preparing to begin negotiations with Comcast, the cable provider within the city limits.