City to crack down on skateboarders, speeders

The Barnesville city council heard of plans to crack down on skateboarders at its regular meeting January 12Mayor Peter Banks said skateboarders will soon be facing fines for repeat offenses after property on Market Street was damaged by boarding vandals. At present, the city confiscates skateboards and turns violators over to parents but harsher treatment has become necessary due to the damage. Skateboarding is illegal on city streets, sidewalks and in public/private parking lots downtown. Banks noted adequate skating facilities are available at the recreation department. Other than that, boarders will have to ply their trade on private property. Additionally, the council heard the first reading of an ordinance to lower the speed limit on the portion of College Drive from Highway 341 to Spencer Street from 45 mph to 35 mph. ;