Business license could be required

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

— Businesses in Decatur may soon be required to have city-issued licenses to conduct business in the city.

At the May 10 city council meeting, city administrative assistant Kim Wilkins said several businesses have contacted her asking for official business licenses. One new business needed a license to have its electricity turned on, while another needed a license to apply for a grant, she said.

Mayor Bill Montgomery proposed issuing licenses for a $25 annual fee. Councilwoman Linda Martin asked how the proposed ordinance would effect home businesses such as baby-sitters or people with online businesses.

Montgomery replied that the ordinance would apply to any income-producing business.

He asked city attorney Tom Smith to draft an ordinance tobe brought before the council at next month’s meeting.

In other business, councilman Trip Lapham reported that the location for the ATV Rodeo, set for June 12, has been changed. The parks and recreation committee planned to hold the event on property near Y City Road, but when they inspected the fields, they were too overgrown. The ATV Rodeo will now be held on city property near Ivan Street, Lapham said.

News, Pages 1 on 05/19/2010