The panel did, however, move forward with addressing capital maintenance needs and moving forward with the purchase of a new trash truck using fund balance.

In all, council approved pulling $293,291 from fund balance. Those funds will pay for roof work at Fire Station 1 and heating and air at the Jo Story Senior Center as well the Lloyd Andrews City Meeting Hall.

(Photos of all the fire department special recognitions may be seen on our Facebook page)

Cost of the building needs is $123,500. With the addition of the new trash truck, which the city is piggybacking off a bid from the city of Thomasville, the total comes to the $293,291 figure, city Finance Director MeLinda Hite said.

She said the purchase of the trash truck is a time sensitive matter.

Council, which discussed the vehicle financing matter during a public hearing Monday night, agreed to table that matter.

City Manager Joseph Scherer confirmed following this evening's meeting that discussions on the vehicle financing would take place next month.

In another matter this evening, the Roanoke Rapids Fire Department took center stage during special recognitions.

Council recognized the retirements of Battalion Chief Billy Allen and firefighter Donny Gums.

They also recognized promotions and new hires.

Recognized were Caylin Burrell from firefighter to engineer; Tim Gray from engineer to lieutenant; Kevin Hawkins from lieutenant to battalion chief; Josh Sparks from firefighter to engineer; Aaron Pike from firefighter to engineer; new hire Darrell Miles as firefighter; new hire Jared Lynch as firefighter; new hire Ramah Long as firefighter and new hire Matt Dube as firefighter.

The fire department also introduced its new color guard.