Bike racks to be constructed in Bessemer pending grant approval

By IAN MINIELLY

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Bessemer — The Bessemer city council said, “aye” unanimously to the branding committee’s marketing design for the city, Doug Kikkebusch’s design for 12 bicycle racks to station around town, and for the city to dispose of some recently discovered revolvers and badges from the old Bessemer police force that has been disbanded since the 1980s.

The new Bessemer brand is being unveiled for the entire town Sept. 28 in a formal presentation accompanied by live music, a Business After Five gathering and Pumpkinfest attendees. Terry Krishak presented the brand and discussed the joy the committee was to work with as they described Bessemer’s history, future, what it is about Bessemer each person liked and the opportunities and obstacles unique to Bessemer, which was factored into the brand decision-making process. Krishak said he was, “surprised how positive everyone on the committee was.”

Kikkebusch had two drawings for the council to review. Charly Loper said she hoped the council would approve the design in the event a grant comes in Thursday as the bicycle racks — which will be permanently stationed around town — have to be constructed and installed by Nov. 1, which does not leave Kikkebusch much time. Loper said the grant, if received, would cover the entire cost of the bicycle racks. The council approved the racks, pending receipt of the grant.

Under new business, Loper described the discovery of revolvers and badges from the old Bessemer police force. The council discussed selling the firearms through a licensed dealer for approximately $350 each, while also potentially displaying some of the firearms and badges in city hall and the historical society. The council agreed to allow Loper to pursue the option of selling the firearms and also displaying of the historical pieces.

Under old business, the Downtown Development Authority ordinance and website contract for the city were accepted by unanimous vote and Loper was encouraged to contact the local union to set a time to discuss the approved employee handbook.

The council tabled the discussion on the purchase of an olfactometer to gauge marijuana odors within the city and approved the closing of Mary Street for the Bridges and Bluff race. Loper also informed the council she has ordered individual microphones for the council members and a microphone for the audience so the livestreams are more effectively transmitted to the public.