By Staff Reports
The Stuart Town Council hopes to reach an agreement with goat owners and start using the ‘chew crew’ to help combat the kudzu problem by June or July.
Chris Corbett, town attorney, said the estimated $3,000 needed for fencing is a small price to pay for the benefits of establishing the “chew crew.”
Corbett said he believes the project that will employ kudzu-eating goats, should be pursued.
Kudzu, a rapidly growing invasive perennial vine that climbs over trees or shrubs and kills them by heavy shading, is prevalent in many areas of Stuart.
During the discussion, Stuart Mayor Ray Weiland suggested land owners should contribute to the project and help the town provide the service.
Corbett disagreed because kudzu is an invasive species.
Weiland suggested a pilot program may be used initially to test the effectiveness of the proposal before moving forward permanently.
Also, during their March 20 meeting, the council:
*Heard from Sandra Belcher, director of tourism in the county. She discussed the need for permanent outdoor, waterproof, wireless speakers in the town and possibly downtown.
“You know, you walk around these other towns … and you know they’ve got speakers, kind of making things a little homey – that sort of thing” Belcher said.
Town Manager Terry Tilley said he is waiting for more information about the project before moving forward with a final decision.
*Heard from John Pendleton, a member of the Broadband Committee, who discussed the continued need for broadband in the town and county.
In addition to a survey currently underway to determine the needs of the area, Pendleton said the Broadband Committee is considering an engineering study. “The possibilities are real for Patrick County to finally” get upgraded service, he said.
The survey is available online at https://www.wired.virginia.gov/broadband/broadband-survey/ or http://bit.ly/pcbroadband.
Copies of the survey also are available in several areas of the county.
The next Stuart Town Council meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 17.
