Clinton City Council Designates December as Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month; Honors Mt. Moriah Baptist Church’s 170th Anniversary

At its December meeting, the Clinton City Council approved a resolution designating December as Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month and recognized Mt. Moriah Baptist Church for reaching its 170th anniversary. The meeting also included significant discussion on zoning matters, annexation, and major equipment purchases for the Clinton Fire Department.

During public comment, six residents of Old Colony Road voiced opposition to the use of their street as an access road to a planned subdivision located on Whitten Center property. Residents expressed concerns about traffic and safety, noting that development activity is increasing near their neighborhood.

In response to concerns raised, council proceeded with the second reading of an ordinance to rezone the portion of Old Colony Road that lies within city limits. The planning commission previously approved the rezoning, and Councilors Walsh and Cogsdill made the motion for the second reading. The ordinance changes the zoning for that city-controlled section from residential to Planned Development District (PDD).

Council clarified during the discussion that only a portion of Old Colony Road is within the city limits and therefore under the city’s zoning authority. Council also noted that the surrounding property referenced by residents during public comment is not owned by the City of Clinton. Councilwoman Anita Williams cast the only opposing vote, and the ordinance passed.

Council unanimously approved, on first reading, an ordinance creating a high-density single-family residential zoning district within the city. A similar ordinance passed on June 23, and together the measures eliminate the option for multi-family dwellings in these designated areas.

Council also unanimously approved the annexation of approximately 1.09 acres located on the southeast side of Highway 76.

In other action, council approved on second reading an amendment to the city’s Code of Ordinances establishing a nonpartisan plurality method for determining results of municipal elections. The change removes the need for runoff elections in close races. Councilman Danny Smith opposed the motion; however, the ordinance passed.

Council then considered the purchase of a 2008 Sutphen 100-foot aerial platform truck for the Clinton Fire Department. The used apparatus costs $500,000, significantly less than the nearly $2 million price tag of a new truck. Funding sources proposed include $190,000 from the Current Impact Fee Fund, $115,000 from the reserve rebate from the sale of CEcD, and $195,000 from recent property sales.

Councilor Anita Williams questioned why the firetruck purchase was not included in the budget and raised concerns about the reliability of a used vehicle. Councilor Walsh also inquired about the expected lifespan of the truck. Despite these questions, the purchase was approved, with Williams voting no.

Finally, council approved the 2026 Council Meeting Calendar and the 2026 City of Clinton Holiday Schedule following minor adjustments.