Fairfield city council members last week approved a plat for Love’s Country Store to enlarge their parking lot and, hopefully, eventually ease some traffic problems there.

Council members had originally hesitated, citing their concern about water that already collects at that location, and that could potentially be a problem for area homeowners.

Love’s architects assured Fairfield authorities that an extra large water retention area was included in the plans, although Love’s was not willing to agree to compensate homeowners in case of a problem.

Council members also approved the state’s recommendations to extend the school zone area on highway 75 because of the new intermediate school that will open this fall. New signs and lights will be posted before school begins.

A new accounting firm will perform the city’s audit next year. Bids were received from two firms: Hudson and Associates of Corsicana bid $10,500, and Frank Campos, who performed the city’s audit this year, bid $16,900.

After a short discussion, council members gave the nod to the lower bidder.

Also at Tuesday’s meet, a three percent increase fuel rate surcharge from Allied Waste trash disposal was approved, the first increase in two years, and not expected to cost city residents more than 20 cents more per month.

Next council meeting is set Aug. 10 at 6 p.m. at city hall.