The Rockmart Mayor and Council have approved a contract for Phase 1-B on the West Jackson Street Redevelopment Project.

They gave the green light to low bidder Tower Construction, of Woodstock. The bid totaled $1,215,259.98.

The contract is subject to the approval of the Northwest Georgia Housing Authority. Work is scheduled to begin within 10 days.

“We are pleased to see this project move forward,” said Rockmart Mayor Curtis Lewis.

The group also awarded the following for the new library, subject to approval of the Sara Hightower Library - Rockmart Branch:

Diversified Resource Group for custom cabinetry in the amount of $49,476.60; Ivan Allen for General Furnishing, totaling $158,722.56; Blackstock’s Equipment Sales for shelving, $78,146.10.

Council members, during the July meeting, also approved the FY 2012 agreement with the Northwest Georgia Regional Commission for transportation of the elderly.

Manager Jeff Ellis reported the U.S. 278 storage tank project is complete and online.

Jean Laltrello, Rockmart Historical Society (RHS), gave an update on the group’s activities.

She said that, as a grassroots organization, the group will report to City officials.

Kathy Holtzclaw is chairman of an RHS advisory committee. Serving with her are Nancy Feek, secretary; Ken Moore, treasurer; Bob Culver, Cornelia Jackson, Jimmy Lester, George Anna Watson, Ann Wilson and Mark Stringer, consultant.

Laltrello said the group would accept donations on behalf of Friends of the Museum and sponsor fundraising events.

Opening of the Rockmart Museum has been delayed until the move into the downtown building is complete, probably September.