By Rupert Howell

With no one present to object, the Sardis board of aldermen voted to approve a redistricting plan which will now be sent to the U.S. Justice Department for acceptance.

Other action at a meeting held Tuesday following the redistricting hearing included final approval for Complete Computers of Batesville to erect wireless internet equipment to the city’s water tower in exchange for free internet connections for the city.

Alderman-at-large Roy Scallorn presided at both the hearing and the following meeting when Alderman Lula Palmer made the motion to accept the proposed plan with Alderman Clarence “Boo Boo” Jones offering  a second. The motion was unanimous with Alderman Jojo Still voting in favor. Alderman Rivers McArthur and Mayor Rusty Dye were not present.

The plan had minimal changes from the current ward lines affecting 21 people according figures provided to the board by their attorney Tommy Shuler.

The town is divided into four wards with one alderman being elected from each and the mayor and fifth alderman being elected from the city-at-large.

Shuler explained that the Justice Department has 60 days to act upon the plan, but can ask for additional information that would allow additional time for any  objection.

Asked by Still if he thought there would be any objection to the plan, Shuler responded, “I can’t see why.”

Complete Computers representatives worked out details of installing ground equipment at the water tower for the internet connection with newly named public works director Bubba McDowell who is handling the project for the city.

In other matters, aldermen approved travel plans for City Clerk Mary McDowell (definite relation) for two clerk seminars.