The Pelham City Council voted 5-0 Monday during a special called meeting to renew the Pelham High School football television replays contract with WOTM.

The contract is for no more than $11,250, or $750 per game for a possible 15 games.

During the meeting, several council members voiced their concerns about spending the amount of money during these difficult economic times.

However, the council members also spoke about the need for the city to support its schools and athletics.

“Let’s face it, the (Shelby County) Board of Education does not support athletics,” councilmember Steve Powell said. “We’re jammed up here.”

Council President Mike Dickens also spoke about the responsibility of the city to stand behind its schools, while also saying it is frustrating that the city of Helena does not do the same thing since Helena kids go to Pelham High School.

Parks and Recreation Director Billy Crandall agreed with Dickens, saying it is time for the city of Helena to step up and support the high school the way the city of Pelham does.

“The city of Helena has done nothing for that school,” Crandall said.

Councilmember Karyl Rice said that even though the schools do not belong to the city, it is the responsibility of taxpaying citizens to ensure the children of Pelham have the best.

“Our children need to be able to utilize what’s there,” Rice said. “I think, in the long run, this has been a great investment.”