Following the retirement of the Winnfield City Police assistant chief, Russell Jones, the City Council at its September 10 meeting approved four promotions recommended by Chief Johnny Ray Carpenter.

Moving into the position of assistant chief is Charles Curry who has served as lieutenant. Moving up to lieutenant is Brian Glenn who has been serving as sergeant. Also promoted from officer to sergeant are both Ashley Carpenter and Deantrey Means.

In other action during their September session, the council agreed to use the services of Karl Johnson’s company to oversee and manage the city’s water and wastewater systems, as the city has no certified personnel to handle it. Annual cost will be $75,000.

Asked about the tainted color of the Winnfield water, Johnson replied he has not yet had a chance to assess the city’s old ozone-based treatment system. Johnson has worked with the city in the past so is familiar with that system but said he is unsure what has and has not been done towards maintenance in the interim. Asked if replacement parts are even available and if repairs are possible, he shrugged his shoulders and suggested he’d have to look into it. He added that he will be attending a convention and may find additional information on clarification systems.

Councilman Matt Miller updated the council on an intergovernmental assistance request to the Winn Parish Police Jury on a road overlay project on North St. John Street. Juror Darrell Franks was in attendance. “Any help would be appreciated,” Miller said.