DOBSON — On Thursday at the Dobson Board of Commissioners meeting, board members voted unanimously to annex the new reception hall at Cody Creek.

The owner of Cody Creek, Freddie Snow, approached the town about annexing 10 acres of his land a few months ago. Now that it has been approved, the business will have the police and fire protection from the town as well as use of the town’s mixed beverage referendum.

The annexation of the property that is estimated to be worth more than $1 million will add $4,000 per year to Dobson’s tax base, according to Town Manager Josh Smith.

The board also discussed an amendment to the town’s nuisance ordinance that addresses high grass and weeds. The amendment would be to raise the fees for when the town must cut nuisance grass in town. The board tabled the amendment in order to look over the language in the town’s ordinance. Mayor Ricky Draughn suggested that the board revisit the topic in November or December.

The board also agreed to adopt an option agreement with the county that will secure the town’s rights to purchase a county property located in town if it is awarded grant money for a park in town limits.

After advertising for a town customer service representative, Smith said he received between 90 to 100 applications. Of those, Aurora Collins was chosen to fill the position. Her first day on the job was Wednesday.

Smith said he wanted to thank the Dobson Police Department for all of its efforts with a shooting incident on Monday morning that involved Officer Brian Thomas. He was left wounded after a gun battle with Lonnie Badgett at 412 Adams St. following a domestic disturbance at the home. Badgett was pronounced dead at the scene.

Smith also thanked officers from the Mount Airy and Elkin police departments, the North Carolina Highway Patrol and the Surry County Sheriff’s Office for their efforts and for responding to the scene.

The board went into a closed session for personnel. No action was taken before the board adjourned.

Reach Mondee Tillley at mtilley@heartlandpublications.com or at 719-1930.