Kempner City Council last week approved an ordinance granting J&H Disposal a franchise agreement to operate a commercial solid waste (garbage and refuse) collection service in the city. The agreement is for a term of five years.

J&H Disposal owners Dean Lemaster and Perry Hayden, at a previous council meeting, requested information on how to apply for a franchise in the city. They completed the necessary paperwork and submitted it for approval.

Lemaster said the company is providing trash pickup for residents in unincorporated areas of Lampasas, Coryell and Bell counties.

Kempner Mayor Gene Isenhour said the franchise is not an inclusive one, as other waste disposal companies also are operating in the city.

In other business, Isenhour announced several upcoming meetings concerning the city budget and tax rate, and he encouraged all council members to be present so a quorum could be established at the meetings.

The council will consider adoption of the fiscal year 2009- 10 budget at tonight's meeting. The tax rate will be considered for adoption at a called meeting on Thursday. All meetings will convene in City Hall Council Chambers at 7 p.m.

Isenhour also reminded council members about their attendance at various other functions and events. If a quorum of council members attends, an agenda must be posted at City Hall.

"Council members should inform the city secretary if they plan to attend any function representing the city, so an agenda can be posted," the mayor said. "This is necessary even though no business will be conducted."

Concerning the city park, Isenhour said he and other volunteers recently spent a day clearing brush where the Veterans Memorial will be constructed. He said volunteers are hopeful dirt work at the site will be completed and all bids received for the concrete work in a few weeks.

The city is still taking orders for engraved granite stones that will be included in the Wall of Honor at the memorial, he added. If interested in honoring a veteran, persons should call City Hall at 932-2180.

And in final matters, Isenhour said the new Dodge Charger has been delivered to the Police Department. The decals have been applied to the vehicle, but radio equipment will need to be installed before the car goes into service.

As the Dodge is smaller than the Ford Crown Victoria previously used, the city should see some reductions in fuel cost, the mayor added.