CITY OF SOPCHOPPY GETS ‘CLEAN AUDIT’ FROM FIRM

Also, recommendations sought from engineering firm on needed improvements to city water system

By MELISSA JAGGEARS Correspondent

The City of Sopchoppy’s finances appear to be in good shape, according to an audit presentation at this month’s City Council meeting, which was held on Monday, June 12.
Chris Salek, from James Moore & Company in Tallahassee, went over a preliminary report, concluding, “Sopchoppy has had a good year and shows a strong balance sheet; it’s a clean audit.”
Salek praised the city for its conservative approach to finances, including having low-risk investments. When the final audit is completed, it will be forwarded to the state for review.
In other matters at the meeting:
•  The city is consulting with a civil engineering firm to study its water system. Baskerville-Donovan Inc. of Pensacola, is examining Sopchoppy’s water pipes, tanks and wells to determine what changes or improvements may be needed to keep up with current and future demand.
Richard Delp, a consultant with BDI, said at Monday’s meeting that the company is still running tests, including studies of how different water pressures flow through the current infrastructure. He does not have any firm recommendations yet.
Seth Green, Director of Sopchoppy’s Public Works Department, said that he expects a “multi-faceted approach” will be needed to address the future needs of the water system.
City Commissioner Michele Harden said she hopes that the consulting firm will have some clear recommendations by next month’s meeting.
• The Council also voted to give $500 to North Florida Glory Softball, a group of several softball teams of girls up to age 18.
For teams that are eligible to enter a softball tournament, the entry fee costs about $525 per team.
City Commissioner Fred McClendon spoke highly of the organization and all that they do for the girls. “They need and deserve all the help they can get,” McClendon said.
Alison Delong, who represented the group at Monday’s meeting, said about 70% of the girls are local, and about 30% are from surrounding areas. Delong thanked the council for the donation.