By Jason C. Mattox

Batesville aldermen were asked to provide relief regarding a high water bill by representatives of J.P. Hudson Park.

J.P. Hudson representative Richard Craven told aldermen Tuesday the park had received a bill in March for $1,350.29 or a usage of 247,500 gallons.

“Since April 8, our meter says we have used about 45,000 gallons,” he said.

Ward 1 Alderman Bill Dugger asked if a plumber had found and repaired a leak.

“To the best of my knowledge there was no leak, but the matter has worked itself out because the bill this month was back to normal,” Craven replied. “But we know we didn’t use that amount of water in March, because all we did out of the ordinary was pressure wash the concession stands and we do that every year.”

Dugger suggested the park put a lock on the meter base so it can’t be turned on without a park official.

“I know the water went somewhere, but we didn’t get the benefit of it,” Craven said.

Ward 3 Alderman Stan Harrison asked if a practicing team could have turned on the water and left it running.

“We have had things like that happen before, but it has never made our bill go up this high,” he said.

Water Department Superintendent Mike Ross said the meter at the park had been checked and was working properly.

“I don’t know that we can do anything to help you,” Mayor Jerry Autrey said. “You haven’t really given a reason that shows anything is wrong.”

“I’m not saying anything is wrong, but we would like some kind of relief if at all possible,” Craven said.

Aldermen suggested watching the meter over the next month, and the matter was taken under advisement.

In other board business:

•A conditional use permit was granted for Don Mays for the fireworks trailer located in the Fred’s parking lot for July 4.

• Police Chief Tony Jones was given permission to purchase a Dodge Charger from Heafner Motors for $22,779.

• Calvin Land was given permission to use the Downtown Park from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on May 31 for a Memorial Day Event.

• Dr. Courtney Selvy was given permission to use the Downtown Square on Feb. 8, 2011, at 10 a.m. for a county-wide prayer rally.

•Mayor Jerry Autrey was given permission to purchase a new Chevrolet Impala for City Hall from Heafner Motors at a cost of $19,897.