NEWTON GROVE — Town commissioners have decided to change the speed limit on U.S. Highway 13.
The approved ordinance would rezone a stretch of road near town from 55 mph to 35 mph, past a nearby subdivision. Jackson reported that the changed would begin at Irwin Drive and Giddens Road to the outskirts of the city limits. With the change, a current sign will be replaced with a 35 mph sign. After about 300 feet, the speed will pick up to 55 mph.
Commissioner Steve Jackson, who presented the proposal during a report, recently observed the area with road officials.
“They’re picking up speed coming off the circle,” Jackson said while addressing his colleagues Monday evening.
Jackson alluded to how he discussed the safety issue with others as well. He said the next step would be reaching out to officials to get the plans solidified. A time frame for the change was not mentioned during the report.
During past meetings, the board discussed a previous issue regarding the town’s Circle Street and signage nuisance. Collectively, the commission came up with a solution to install a digital kiosk for the community.
Deans introduced
During the Monday evening, Laura Deans, executive director for the Clinton-Sampson Chamber of Commerce, welcomed herself to the commission and presented the leadership program.
“We have lots of events coming up at the Clinton-Sampson Chamber of Commerce and the leadership program is one my favorite programs that I learned about so far,” Deans said.
The eight-month adult program is designed for participants to learn about different aspects of the community, such as agriculture, education and local government. Selected members meet for one day out the month.
Along with a tuition fee, applicants have to be approved by their employer. Dean said between 10 and 14 candidates are accepted each year.
“That’s the average class per year,” Dean said.
So far, about 160 Sampson County professionalizes have participated.
“It’s been around for quite awhile and it’s a great program,” Deans said.
Applications for the program are currently online at the chamber’s website, www.clintonsampsonchamber.org. The application deadline is 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21. It’s scheduled to begin in September with an open retreat and the classes will begin in October.