While the downtown park served as a starting point for the project’s architect at the recent meeting of the Mayor and Board of Aldermen, the entire future of downtown was discussed.

Brad Stringer told city leaders that after one full month on the job, Century Construction was right on schedule with the project thanks to the dry weather the city has experienced.

"It looked like they would get behind a little bit because of the rain in June, but it was dry in July and they really took advantage of that," he said. "They are moving along quite well."

Stringer said there has been one request made for a change to the plans, but he does not expect to ask the city for any funds.

"We are looking to see if we can shift the cost from another part of the park," he said. "We think we will be able to swap out some things in the project and make it work."

Alderman James Yelton said he figured the city would be paying the balance for the park and would like to see them keep the costs down as much as possible.

Alderwoman Bobbie Jean Pounders told the board that the Batesville Main Street Program had come up with ideas to offset some of the costs on the project.

"We are going to civic clubs about things like the gazebo and the fountain," she said. "And it looks like the Rotary Club may sponsor the fountain for us."

Pounders said Main Street has also started a brick sale to raise funds for the project.

During the meeting of the Board of Aldermen, representatives of the First Regional Library System presented their request for the upcoming budget year.

Branch Manager Charlene Bradford said in the past year, the library has added several new programs including a Spanish learning station.

"We are very proud of the work we have been able to do in the library," she said. "We have seen a lot of additional traffic since we opened the addition."

Bradford reminded city leaders that several libraries have been hit so hard financially they had to close their doors.

"Imagine what life would be like without a library in Sardis," she said. "I think it would be a truly sad thing for the community."

Bradford said the library was asking for $12,000 from the city during the upcoming budget year.

"We asked for that amount last year and, unfortunately, you were not able to give it to us," she said. "So we are asking for the same amount again this year."

One representative of the First Regional Library System said she feels like the Sardis Public Library is one of the best in Panola County.

"This is a very vibrant and growing library," she said.