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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2003 • 3A
sinking feeling
expires in several months, officials said. Meanwhile, the warranty bonding company has been put on notice about the several joints that have collapsed so far.
In	other	business
Tuesday, council:
•	Almost promised to take action on a Historic Preservation Ordinance proposal that has been in the works for some eight years. Hancock County Historical Society officials urged action Tuesday night, but council members said they would vote late next month, once they are sure a final, acceptable, ordinance has been drafted.
•	Agreed on a draft franchise renewal document for Mediacom cable. The city has no control over the rates that Mediacom charges its customers. There are several new provisions the city hopes to win in the contract, however, including guaranteed use of a free public access channel.
•	Adopted a resolution supporting the upcoming 2004 Dixie Softball Angels World Series, to be held in
Bay St. Louis. The tournament among 12 teams from
11	states will run at least seven days, with competing teams of 9- and 10-year-olds.
•	Discussed adopting a special deposit rate for renters who establish utility service. The current residential deposit fee of $210 applies to property owners or renters, but officials say they have little recourse against tenants who relocate with unpaid utility bills.
•	Discussed banning "can shakers" from city intersections. Officials are concerned over the safety of fund solicitors - especially youths - in high traffic areas.