Alderman at Large Karen Sullivan began Tuesday’s city board meeting by recognizing the committee members and others that helped name Brookhaven a “Healthy Hometown.”

     The designation includes a $25,000 grant from Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi Foundation to help the city further promote healthy initiatives.

     Sullivan credited King’s Daughters Medical Center as a key player in the city’s healthy status.

     “KDMC is invaluable to our community,” she said. “They promote and coordinate running, walking and bicycle events.”

     Sullivan also noted the farmers market as well as the city’s hosting of the annual Mississippi Gran Prix, the largest amateur bicycle race in the state, as key factors in achieving the award.

     Among those in attendance Tuesday night was Richard Barker, race director for the Gran Prix. Barker credited local law enforcement for the annual race’s continual success and Brookhaven’s recent recognition.

     “They have been so good to us,” he said. “They support us like nothing else.”

     “They have promoted helmets for kids and taught them to ride bicycles,” he continued. “If we didn’t have them, we couldn’t do it.”

     Sullivan continued her thanks by addressing the board.

     “The credit also goes to the leaders of our city who do not hesitate to close off our streets for events,” she said.

     Finally, Sullivan recognized the community as a whole for its role in the recent achievement.

     “Credit goes to the citizens of Brookhaven,” she said. “We are blessed to have a town full of health advocates. There’s no shortage of those.”

     In other business, the board approved the hiring of five officers for the Brookhaven Police Department and also accepted three resignations.

     In addition, Ward One Alderman Randy Belcher addressed a need to create a three-way stop at the intersection of Brignal Road and Country Club Drive due to its large occurrence of traffic accidents.

     BPD Chief Bobby Bell was in agreement with Belcher’s request.

     “We do have a speeding problem there,” Bell said.

     Also, Ward Six Alderman David Phillips requested the board welcome an appearance at the Aug. 6 board meeting from Jim Smith with Green Alliance to discuss ways to increase the public’s participation in curbside recycling.

     Phillips noted the 23 percent participation rate as unacceptable and suggested the board allocate money during upcoming budgeting for education on the subject.