Appointments to the Alcohol Beverage Control Board were announced at the Oct. 9 Baker City Council meeting.

Brenda Lands, 503 Rabel St., was appointed by Councilman John Givens and Joe Williams, 4428 Algoa Ave., was appointed by Councilman Charles Vincent. Both appointments were unanimously approved by the council.

In other business:

CONDEMNATION: On a motion by Councilman Pete Heine, the council voted to begin condemnation proceedings on a residence at 1471 Nichols St., Daniels Place Subdivision.

According to city records, the owner, Mrs. Harold Gainey moved out in September 2006. Her last known address is in Mobile, Ala., but two certified letters sent there were returned by the post office as “unable to forward.”

The city attorney took the matter under advisement.

SECURITY: Mayor Harold Rideau recognized Kenneth Smithers, president and CEO of World Protection Inc., who is considering opening an office in Baker.

UTILITY FEES, SERVICES: A second work session was scheduled for 12:30 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 17, to continue discussing the city’s utility rates and services.

At the first work session on Oct. 3, Vincent distributed rate information from Brusly, Denham Springs, DeRidder, Jennings, Morgan City, New Orleans, Port Allen, St. Francisville, Thibodaux and Zachary for comparison with Baker.

RECYCLING: Councilwoman Joyce Burges plans a celebration in November during Recycling Awareness Month. She made recycle bins and literature available at this meeting. Residents may call 775-5618 to get a bin.

BAKER BUFFALO FESTIVAL: Too much rain dampened spirits and kept crowds away, but the bands played all their gigs. The carnival rides were great this year, the mayor said, but the city had to use a bulldozer to get them out of the mud.

CLOGGED DITCH: Tarita Freeman, 1404 Johnston St., brought the council’s attention to a ditch that needs cleaning. Public Works Director Julie McCulloch will handle the matter.

Freeman is also concerned about the number of young men loitering in the street nearby. Police Chief Mike “Snapper” Knaps is aware of the situation and will continue to investigate.

NEXT MEETING: The next council meeting will begin at 6 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 23.