Faded signs to go away

City Manager Jeff Howell gave members of the Kilgore Improvement and Beautification Association (KIBA) a little hope for improving signage in town.

KIBA President Peggy Bowne reported some street signs are unreadable, leaning or even completely down.

Howell told members that an "improvement package" is included in the proposed budget, and part of that package was a two-person sign crew,

"If approved, the crew would be responsible for keeping the signage in town in proper condition."

Howell said the city needs to purchase a new sign-making machine.

"We want to make an earnest effort, if the package is approved, of seeing improvement in Kilgore's signage," Howell said.

Bowne also mentioned several areas in the city needing to be cleaned.

Bowne questioned Howell on what public areas the city was responsible for maintaining -specifically pointing to Sesquicentennial Park, the amphitheater and the Shakespeare Garden.

KIBA gave both the Sesquicentennial Park and amphitheater to the city.

"We assumed it was the city's responsibility to maintains these," Bowne said.

Howell said the city does keep both sites mowed and trimmed. The Shakespeare Gardens belong to KIBA.

Other areas KIBA is responsible for maintaining include the "Kilgore hedges," "star island" now attached to the city park/library property, the Depot and the six flags at Sesquicentennial Park.

"Do you think we need a policy clearing up who's responsible for maintaining areas," asked Wanda Bittick, a KIBA member.

Howell said that if the site is given to the city and accepted by the city council, then it's city property and falls under city maintenance.

In other business, KIBA received a $1,000 check form the Pepsi Company as part of its grant for the amphitheater. The company agreed to give KIBA $1,000 for five years for the project.

Diana Ponder, Civic Affairs Committee chairwoman, reminded members Aug. 1 is Kilgore Night Out and Sept. 23 is Clean Up Kilgore Day.