The Quitman City Council approved a variance in construction code to the Quitman ISD bond expansion during the Thursday council meeting.

The variance is for penetrations in the to-be-built storm shelters.

EMA Engineering & Consulting, Inc. representative Bryan Little explained that the need and request is a legal technicality; the product that builders need, he said, is made by only one or two companies, and the producers have not updated their code compliance since 2014. However, Little said nothing has changed in either the product or the code since it was last certified in 2014.

“That’s the only reason we’re seeking this variance, is there’s not anything else out there,” said Little. “When it comes to y’all’s kids, believe me, I wouldn’t even bring this up if it wasn’t safe.”

Mayor Randy Dunn noted that bulk trash, such as couches, toilets, etc. have been sitting in several Quitman yards for a month or more. Republic Services will pick up any bulk trash for free; however, residents must call Republic in advance at 903-575-1568. Republic will pick up bulk trash every first Thursday of the month with an advance call.

“I would like to be very serious about people using it,” said Dunn. “If people need help – and I’m all about help – call city hall. I want everybody to be proud when we drive down the street.”

The council also discussed making Lipscomb a one-way street. According to officials, the street has drainage and parking issues that could cause problems. Turning the area between Hart St. and the downtown square into a one-way, said department heads, could solve several problems at once. The board will bring up the idea “at another time.”

Because of legal technicalities, the council also passed several new ordinances, which in essence updated and approved already-existing standards. The council approved the code of ordinances for the city which was already in place, approved the authority of the existing Board of Zoning Adjustment and approved the Planning and Zoning Commission board members for another term.

According to City Administrator Allan Gilbert, the only member of the P&Z Commission who is not able to return is Jonathan Jackson. Keith Rutledge will take his spot.

The council also approved Brad Von Reyn to the Quitman Development Corp. board. Von Reyn’s appointment fills the QDC.