Brookhaven officials are discussing plans for an upcoming tripto Washington to meet with state congressional officials whileseeking funding help for local projects.

Leaders considered several options during Tuesday’s city boardmeeting but did not reach any conclusions. Issues to be addressedinclude who will be going, when and what projects to pursue duringthe trip.

Mayor Bob Massengill suggested several project possibilitieslast night.

One was additional funding for sewer system improvements. Onecity sewer project is currently under way and city officials havesaid more work is needed.

Another possibility is cluster lighting for Exit 40 at theintersection of Interstate 55 and Brookway Boulevard. That projecthas been discussed in connection with earlier funding requestsrelated to the new LinBrook Business Park.

“We hope that takes place, but it doesn’t hurt to go ask again,”Massengill said.

More infrastructure funding for the business park – a jointproject between the city, county and chamber – is another possiblediscussion point, the mayor said. Massengill said a $1.2 millionrequest, if approved, could be used along with an EconomicDevelopment Administration grant secured earlier for theproject.

Funding help for a senior citizens community center would beanother possible request, Massengill said.

In other business last night, Massengill said surveys ofdowntown businesses to gauge their reactions to a possible historicpreservation district are in the process of being distributed. Hesaid the surveys are due back by Jan. 19.

“We’ll have a good idea then about how the downtown merchantsand businesses feel,” Massengill said.

Also last night, Ward Four Alderwoman Shirley Estes brieflydiscussed aspects of an Urban Forestry Comprehensive Plan for thecity. Donna Yowell, director of the state Urban ForestryCommission, was on last night’s agenda to speak, but was unable toattend the meeting.

Finally, aldermen went into executive session, citingprospective litigation, to discuss the situation involving aRailroad Street residence and business where officials areconcerned about an accumulation of old cars. No action was takenafter the board returned from the closed meeting.