By Taylor Boyd
The Town of Stuart will install cameras around the caboose that is situated downtown, near the Mayo River Rail Trail.
The decision came after a Sept. 13 vandalism – the second time vandals targeted the caboose.
Town Manager Terry Tilley said he plans to have the cameras up as soon as possible “to hopefully prevent this from happening again.”
Tilley said it took about three hours to remove the graffiti, and the “only real cost to the town was labor.”
Tilley said the vandalism would not hinder the council’s attempt to get a historical designation for some buildings in downtown Stuart.
A reward is available for information related to the vandalism. Anyone with information is urged to call Patrick County Sherriff Dan Smith at (276) 692-7012.
In other matters:
*The Stuart Volunteer Fire Department will be getting a new sign. The department currently is waiting for the sign’s frame to be finished, with plans to install it in three to four weeks. Zach Heath, a boy scout, is working with the town on the project, as part of his effort to earn his Eagle Scout badge.
*An attorney will send a letter to Wendy’s Company because the local restaurant has not paid its water bill, officials said. The restaurant chain’s parent company, NPC International Inc., filed for bankruptcy and reorganization.
“We have a lawyer to protect our interests,” said Town Attorney Chris Corbett.
Stuart Mayor Ray Weiland said it is important for the town to put itself on the company’s radar to prevent the nonpayment from becoming a recurring issue.
“I’m certain they will write a check,” said Weiland, adding “they are still doing good business, and once that 60 days is up past the date, we can shut their water off.”
