“Mr. Allen said at the meeting that he couldn’t understand how that amount of work could be done. I should explain about this process,” Butts said. “We’ve given you a great price and a great job.”

He told the council City Engineer Wilbur Downey brought forth the bill to be paid according to the specifications of the job.

“We work directly with Mr. Downey and he has not falsified the document. This is the first time since I started my business in 1979 that I’ve ever had an objection to having the bill paid,” Butts explained.

Thomasville Mayor Sheldon Day said Downey is well respected and the council trusts his report of the work done.

“Are you through?” Alberta Dixon, questioned Butts.

He explained the aspects of the project left to complete, which includes sidewalks on MLK Dr. and work at McFadden Park and Old Claiborne. Bashi Road needs to be dressed, as well.

“We want to pay our bills,” Lewis Herron emphasized. “This is not a question of integrity. The mayor was not at the last meeting and we didn’t have additional information about the project and so we felt more comfortable with tabling the matter until he returned. We were postponing payment, not rejecting payment.”

Charles Allen agreed with Herron and stated, “Put yourself in our position. We didn’t understand the scope of the project.”

Butts reminded the council that the review of the estimate with the council is a courtesy, not a legal issue.

“We’re a good company and we do good work,” Butts said.

The $187,210.85 bill was unanimously approved by the council.