By Shavonne Potts

Salisbury Post

ROCKWELL — The Rockwell Board of Aldermen heard two presentations at it’s Monday meeting concerning the town’s future.

The first presentation was from Alana Tomlin Denton, an independent grant writer. Alderman Terry Beaver asked Denton to speak about options the town has and what grant-writing services she could provide.

Although the board has discussed the need for a grant writer, they took no action Monday, but will revisit the idea of hiring a grant writer in the new budget year.

The other presentation was from Bill Dustin from the Centralina Council of Governments, who spoke to the board about annexation procedures.

Town Clerk Sue Morton said the town is not annexing any property, but in the future the town may look into possible annexation.

The Council of Governments serves as a source for local governments to address problems and future needs. It acts as a channel for grants and a staff resource for members.

The board also:

* Discussed the need for a new fire truck and authorized appointment of a committee to begin the search.

Morton said the truck, which is about 20 years old, is reaching beyond the state’s recommended lifespan.

“They’ll start a committee and get specs for prices,” she said.

The estimated cost of a new fire truck is between $400,000 and $600,000, depending on what functions are added.

Once the committee is established, it will search for potential bidders and prices.

The board also approved the certification of the fire department’s roster.

* Approved Feb. 6 for the annual budget retreat. The retreat will be held at Town Hall beginning at 9 a.m.

“This will be for the board and department heads to do some long-term planning and discuss their wants, needs and budgeting,” Morton said.

* Approved opening bids for a water/sewer project at Salisbury Street to extend lines for better flow to the south end of town. Project bids will open Jan. 16 at 2 p.m.