Bonham -- The regular meeting of Bonham City Council Monday night was an historic occasion; the next meeting will be, too.

In all likelihood, August 8 was the final regular meeting of the Bonham City Council in the council chambers at 301 East 5th Street

After meeting in the current city hall for a half century, the council's next regular meeting will most likely take place in the new Bonham City Hall located at 514 Chestnut Street.

"The new building is 99.876% complete," remarked Bonham City Manager Corby Alexander with an air of optimism and touch of levity.

The city manager predicts that personnel will begin transitioning into the new facility at the end of this week or early next week.

Alexander pointed out that, as with any move, there will be challenges.

For example, in order to save money, no new phone system was purchased for the new building.  At some point, callers can expect a brief interruption in service as the phone system is disconnected and transferred next door to the new Bonham City Hall.

The Bonham City Council also discussed the present impasse with Fannin County officials in regard to EMS funding. Bonham Fire Department provides emergency medical services throughout Fannin County. Bonham and Fannin County are in the fifth year of a five-year contract that called for the county to pay $598,000 annually for EMS.  Fannin County paid $598,000 the first year, $568,000 the second year, $542,000 in year three and then $522,000 for the final two years.

Bonham Fire Chief Brad Nichols says he is looking at a deficit for EMS and the time has come to revise operations, reduce personnel or implement a reduction in services.

Council member John Burnett asked Chief Nichols if EMS could break even if only operating within the Bonham city limits.

"Yes, I believe so," answered Nichols.

The City of Bonham says it is only asking for $8,000 more than the contract agreed to by the county five years ago.

"We feel like what we asked for is fair," said Bonham City Manager Corby Alexander

Bonham Mayor Roy Floyd seemed to harbor hopes that a new contract can be hammered out that leaves both parties with what they feel is an equitable and transparent agreement.