By John Howell Sr.

Batesville aldermen are expected today to authorize Mayor Jerry Autrey to sign an agreement that will allow the city to receive a grant for placing lights at the Trussell Park Walking Trail.

The authorization request is included on the agenda for today’s First Tuesday meeting of the mayor and board of aldermen, starting at 2 p.m.

The grant from the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks (MDWFP) was announced in August. The $100,000 project will include 80 percent grant funds with the remainder coming from the city.

The mayor said in August that some of the city’s portion will come from in-kind contributions.

The walking trail was completed last year through an initial $100,000 MDWFP grant which allowed the construction of an asphalt pathway over the gently sloping land between the park’s softball fields and the National Guard armory. A $20,000 Urban Reforestation Grant through the Mississippi Park Commission allowed trees to be planted along the trail and on other locations of city-owned property.

Other business to be considered during Tuesday’s meeting include opening bids for materials and supplies for 2012.

Stagecoach Gap Mobile Home Park owner Kirk Willingham is scheduled to attend a public hearing to determine his progress in cleaning up the property. Aldermen took under advisement his request for more time at a public hearing during November.

During the November hearing, Willingham cited problems with theft and vandalism that have set back his efforts to improve the trailer park’s appearance.

Aldermen are expected to set public hearings for a rezoning request and an amendment to site and building design standards, according to the agenda.

Police Chief Tony Jones will request that the city sign an agreement with Finch-Henry Job Corps Center that authorizes city police protection for the facility. The agreement is reauthorized annually.

The police chief will also request purchase of a vehicle for use by the Special Operations Division and the transfer of another police vehicle to the street department.

Assistant city attorney Colmon Mitchell will request an executive session for a matter not specified on the agenda.