Time capsule

As reported in The Columbia News-Times five years ago on Friday, Mar. 14, 1997.

Long Standing Bill Unpaid

The Grovetown city Council will continue its efforts to collect back payments on a four-year-old water and sewer bill and the next step may be to shut off the service to residents of Mobile Home Estates.

Owner of the complex, J. V. Holland, had appeared at the last council meeting and contended a ruling by Superior Court Judge Bernard J. Mulherin in August 1993 had state "a reasonable length of time" to settle the matter.

Since then council members Mark Devoti and Curtis Newman have read a transcript of that court ruling. According to their interpretation and that of City Attorney Jim Blanchard, the statements of Judge Mulherin are non-binding on the city and he also said, "I can't run the city's business, you all go work it out."

36-Year Star Program honored

For 36 years the Harlem Women's Club has sponsored the STAR program.

At it's regular meeting, Harlem Mayor Shirley Tankersley presented Brenda Starling of the Women's Club with a proclamation honoring STAR.

STAR, which stands for Student Teacher Achievement Recognition, recognizes outstanding students in Columbia County.

It allows educators and the business community to honor those who have achieved academic excellence.

Local Merchants Voice Opinions on Sales Tax

If the one percent sales tax passes, local businesses will feel the effects.

They may feel it even more if the one percent sales tax that is also being discussed in Richmond County does not pass.

"Any tax is going to take away from business. Some people are trying to paint this as not being a tax increase but it is," said Tommy Moxley, owner of Appliance Land.

Moxley is in favor of better schools but feels there is a better way of controlling the cost of the schools.

Bill Beazley, President and owner of Bill Beazley Homes Inc. is supportive of the sales tax referendum.

"Anything that is good for Columbia County schools is good for business. People move here because of the school system," said Beazley.