Beaumont City Council today voted unanimously to amend the city’s Code of Ordinances to grant parking privileges to persons with physical disabilities in spaces with a limitation on the length of time for parking.

The amendment exempts persons with disabilities from paying fees charged by the city for on-street parking or parking in parking garages.

City Manager Kyle Hayes said the amendment would “be the most efficient and prudent action council could take with no need to budget for the construction and installation of new sidewalk ramps and access aisles”.

The city council voted to approve an expenditure of $87,593 for the purchase of a backhoe from Hi-Way Equipment Co. for the Streets and Drainage Division.

“The new unit features an extended boom for greater reach and workability,” Hayes said.  “The unit to be replaced is a 1997 model.  Age and condition cause the equipment to require frequent maintenance and repair, resulting in excessive down time.”

The city council voted to approve an expenditure of $54,919 for the purchase of an excavator from Takeuchi Manufacturing for the Water Department.

The city council voted to approve a contract with Moncla’s Inc. for the 2012 Summer Food Service Program.

Moncla’s will provide meals at a price of $2.985 per lunch from June 4 through August 10, Mondays through Fridays excluding July 4.  The program is funded through the United States Department of Agriculture.

All items were approved.  All votes were unanimous with Mayor Becky Ames and council members Gethrel  Williams-Wright and Jamie Smith absent.  Agenda