- Driver (Part-Time)
- Laborer Street Maintenance
- Parks & Recreation Maintenance Worker
- Head Swim Coach (Seasonal)
- Police Officer
- Lifeguard (Seasonal)
- Skilled Laborer/Small Engine Mechanic
- Sanitation Laborer
- DRIVER/SANITATION
- School Crossing Guard (PT/Seasonal)
- Driver (Part-Time)
***JOB ANNOUNCEMENT***
External
Job Title: Driver (Part-Time)
Department: Public Transportation Department
FLSA Classification: Hourly
Announcement No.: 24-13
Announcement Date: April 11, 2024
Closing Date: When Position is Filled
Nature of Work:
This is a part-time (29 hours or less) position that is responsible for transporting passengers throughout the county as needed and assisting with boarding or de-boarding when necessary. Also requires accurate record keeping by completing daily trip logs. This position receives supervision from the Transportation Director.
Responsibilities:
- Operates public transportation bus within county district transporting passengers to and from destinations.
- Collects fares.
- Maintain accurate records pertaining to mileage, time, etc.
- Provide assistance to elderly/handicap passengers when needed.
- Complete pre-trip vehicle inspection and report any needed repairs to Transportation Director.
- Answers phone and schedules patron pick-ups as needed.
- These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive duties. Other duties and responsibilities may be added, deleted, or changed at any given time at the discretion of the Fire Chief. It may be done formally or informally, either verbally or in writing.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- Knowledge of traffic rules and regulation and ability to demonstrate such knowledge.
- Skilled in the safe driving and operation of bus on public streets and highways.
- Ability to keep accurate records within department.
- Ability to communicate written and orally.
- Ability to work basic math computations.
- Ability to work flexible hours
- Ability to understand and follow simple oral & written instructions.
- Ability to operate handicap lift and manual door of bus.
- Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with supervisors, co-workers, bus patrons, general public and those contacted in the course of work.
- Ability to be helpful, courteous and deal tactfully with bus patrons and general public.
Minimum Qualification:
- Must possess valid Driver’s License with driving record suitable for insurability.
This job description indicates in general the nature and levels of work, knowledge, skills, abilities, and other essential functions (as covered under the ADA) expected of an incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of an incumbent. An incumbent may be ask to perform other duties required. This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions and position responsibilities. Nothing in the job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Incumbent must be able to perform the essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodation.
Application Process
Applications may be obtained from the City of Guntersville Human Resource (Personnel) Office at 341 Gunter Ave., Guntersville, AL or visit our website at www. Guntersvilleal.org. Completed applications for qualified applicants should be returned to the Human Resource Department. Applications will be accepted until position is filled.
THE CITY OF GUNTERSVILLE IS A DRUG/ALCOHOL FREE WORKPLACE
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
WE PARTICIPATE IN E-VERIFY
- Laborer Street Maintenance
Job Announcement
Internal/External
Announcement Date: April 10, 2024
Closing Date: When Position is Filled
Announcement Number: 24-12
Title: Laborer
Department: Street/Maintenance
Hours: 6 AM – 4:30 PM, M-T
FLSA Classification: Hourly, Non-Exempt
Nature of Work
This position involves manual laborer associated with the mowing, cleaning, maintenance and care of city streets and properties. Work involves mowing, weed eating, raking, and cleaning of city streets and right-of-ways, city cemetery, city facilities, and other city maintained properties. Work is performed under the direction of a crew leader. Work is performed and reviewed under the direct supervision of the Street/Maintenance Assistant Supervisor, and general supervision under the Street/Maintenance Supervisor.
Essential Functions
- Mows grass, weed eats, rakes leaves and debris, trim shrubs, and polices outside areas and keeps clean of trash and debris; removes refuse, limbs and leaves from streets, right-of ways, and drainage.
- Operates light powered equipment such as lawn mowers, weed eaters, trimmers, pole saws, chain saws, and other similar powered equipment used in support of department.
- Uses shovels, rakes, brooms, and other similar manual hand tools used in support of department.
- Applies herbicides and pesticides as needed.
- Performs foot detail for manual cleaning and litter pickup.
- Performs limited custodial work in support of cleaning and maintenance of Public Works facilities and grounds.
- Maintains mowers and tools (powered and manual) and other equipment: makes simple field adjustments and repairs as needed.
- Assist in storm clean up as needed resulting from inclement weather.
- Assist in special events set-up as needed or required.
- These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive duties. Other duties and responsibilities may be added, deleted, or changed at any given time at the discretion of the Street Maintenance Supervisor. It may be done formally or informally, either verbally or in writing.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Knowledge of grounds maintenance and detail work.
- Knowledge of the operation and maintenance of a variety of powered and hand tools.
- Skilled in the proper use of manual cleaning and maintenance equipment such as, but not limited to, rakes, shovels, trimmers, and brooms.
- Skilled in the proper us of a variety of light powered equipment such as, but not limited to, mowers, weed eaters, trimmers, pole saws, and chain saws.
- Ability to make simple field repairs and adjustments to assigned equipment.
- Ability to follow simple oral or written instructions.
- Ability to work overtime when needed to include weekends, holidays, and weather related emergencies.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, co-workers, general public, and those in contact in the course of work.
- Ability to perform all essential job functions.
Minimum Qualifications
- Must possess a valid Driver’s License and have a driving record suitable for insurability.
Physical Requirements
- Sufficient physical to lift and carry at least 80 pounds; ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time; ability to sit, bend, squat, kneel, crouch, crawl, stoop, stretch, reach, feel, grasp, handle, lift, push, pull, manual dexterity, and visual acuity at a level to operate motor vehicles.
- Stamina to work in very cold and hot temperatures and inclement weather.
This job description indicates in general the nature and levels of work, knowledge, skills, abilities, and other essential functions (as covered under the ADA) expected of an incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of an incumbent. An incumbent may be ask to perform other duties required. This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions and position responsibilities. Nothing in the job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Incumbent must be able to perform the essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodation.
Application Process
Applications may be obtained from the City of Guntersville Human Resources (Personal) Office at 341 Gunter Ave., Guntersville, AL or visit our website at www.guntersvilleal.org. Completed applications for qualified applicants should be returned to the Human Resources Department. Applications will be accepted until position is filled.
THE CITY OF GUNTERSVILLE IS A DRUG/ALCOHOL FREE WORKPLACE
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
WE PARTICIPATED IN E-VERIFY
- Parks & Recreation Maintenance Worker
***JOB ANNOUNCEMENT***
Internal/External
Job Title: Parks & Recreation Maintenance Worker
Department: Parks & Recreation
Classification: Hourly, Non-Exempt, Grade 6 ($13.63 – $19.90)
Announcement Number: 24-10
Announcement Date: March 27, 2024
Closing Date: Until Position is Filled
Nature of Work
This is a manual labor position associated with the maintenance and care of the Guntersville Parks & Recreation department which include, but not limited to athletic fields, parks, buildings, and facilities. Depending on assignment, may require the operation of a variety of powered equipment along with manual labor associated with the repair, maintenance, and daily operations of the department. This position may require some weekend and/or holiday work. Work is performed under the direct supervision of a crew leader and general supervision of the Director of Parks & Recreation.
Essential Functions:
- Mowing grass, trim shrubs, rake leaves and polices outside areas and keeps clean of trash and debris; apply herbicides or pesticide as needed.
- Performs minor painting and limited building maintenance and repair.
- Drags and lines athletic fields as needed.
- Cleans restrooms, replaces lavatory supplies and disposes of trash and waste paper.
- Drives truck, mower, & tractor; operates various mechanized hand and power equipment used in cutting grass, maintaining grounds, custodial work, and limited facility repair work.
- Maintains tools, truck, mower, tractor and other power equipment; makes simple field repairs.
- Open and closes buildings, park, pool, and other facilities as needed.
- These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive duties. Other duties and responsibilities may be added, deleted, or changed at any given time at the direction of the Parks & Recreation Director. It may be done formally or informally, either verbally or in writing.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:
- Knowledge of cleaning methods, materials & equipment.
- Knowledge of park, athletic field, and grounds maintenance.
- Knowledge of basic electrical, plumbing and small engine repair.
- Skilled in the use of a variety of manual hand tools.
- Skilled in operating trucks, tractors, mowers, and other powered maintenance equipment.
- Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
- Ability to be helpful, courteous and deal tactfully with P & R patrons and general public.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, co-workers, park patrons, general public, and those contacted in the course of work.
- Ability to work flexible hours including weekends.
- Ability to perform all essential job functions.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Must possess a valid unrestricted Driver’s License with driving record suitable for insurability.
Physical Requirements:
- Sufficient physical strength to lift and carry at least 50 pounds; ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, squat, kneel, crouch, crawl, stoop, stretch, reach, feel, grasp, handle, lift, push, pull, manual dexterity, and visual acuity at a level to operate motor vehicles.
- Sufficient physical strength and agility to perform manual labor, to work in very cold and hot temperatures and to work in inclement weather.
This job description indicates in general the nature and levels of work, knowledge, skills, abilities, and other essential functions (as covered under the ADA) expected of an incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of an incumbent. An incumbent may be ask to perform other duties required. This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions and position responsibilities. Nothing in the job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Incumbent must be able to perform the essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodation.
Application Process:
Applications may be obtained from the City of Guntersville Personnel Office at 341 Gunter Ave., Guntersville, AL or visit our website at www.guntersvilleal.org. Completed applications for qualified applicants should be returned to Ms. Renea Bradley Rowan, Personnel Director. Applications will be accepted until position is filled.
THE CITY OF GUNTERSVILLE IS A DRUG/ALCOHOL FREE WORKPLACE
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
WE PARTICIPATE IN E-VERIFY
- PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE
City of Guntersville hereby announces its proposed Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) participation goal of 6.6% for FAA-funded contracts/agreements. The proposed goal pertains to federal fiscal years 2024 through 2026 (10/1/2023 – 9/30/2026). A teleconference (via Microsoft Teams) will be held on April 9, 2024 at 2:00 pm CST for the purpose of consulting with stakeholders to obtain information relevant to the goal-setting process. Those wishing to participate can phone into the meeting by dialing (833) 566-2349 and prompted use conference ID: 683 638 48#. - Head Swim Coach (Seasonal)
***JOB ANNOUNCEMENT***
External
Job Title: Head Swim Coach (Seasonal)
Department: Parks & Recreation Department
Hours: Varies
Classification: Salary, Exempt
Announcement Number: 24-08
Announcement Date: March 7, 2024
Closing Date: When Filled
Nature of Work:
This is a specialized seasonal position to serve as the head of the Guntersville Swim Team under the general direction of the Aquatics Supervisor. They should provide effective leadership and guidance to the competitive swim team, assistant coaches, and volunteers. The Head Swim Coach will be a role model for the athletes and serve as the public face for the Guntersville Swim Team, while adhering to safety protocols and enforcing the ARPA safe sport guideline.
Essential Functions:
- Instruct students in rules, regulations, equipment, and techniques of competitive swimming.
- Organizes and leads structured individual and small group practice activities/exercises.
- Creates thorough age appropriate workouts on technique, endurance, stroke development, drill, etc.
- Assess swimmer’s skills; monitors students during competition and practice.
- Performs administrative work relating to, but not limited to, practices, swim meet arrangements, and team performance.
- Models sports like behavior and maintains appropriate conduct towards swimmers, officials, parents, and spectators.
- Maintains equipment and assumes responsibility for its security.
- Assist in maintaining a clean and safe environment for swim team participants.
- Attends all swim team events such as meets, meetings, social events, etc.
- These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive duties. Other duties and responsibilities may be added, deleted, or changed at any given time at the discretion of the Aquatics Supervisor or Parks and Recreation Director. It may be done formally or informally, either verbally or in writing.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities required for this position:
- Knowledge of rules, regulations, equipment, and technique of competitive swimming.
- Knowledge of strokes and practice techniques.
- Skilled in effectively coaching techniques and skill.
- Ability to instruct and observe participants in proper stroke and techniques.
- Ability to plan and organize.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, co-workers, parents, swimmers, spectators, and general public.
- Ability to work flexible hours
- Ability to perform all essential functions.
Minimum Qualification:
- Must possess a current Red Cross Lifeguard, CPR, AED & First Aid Certification.
- Prior coaching experience preferred.
This job description indicates in general the nature and levels of work, knowledge, skills, abilities, and other essential functions (as covered under the ADA) expected of an incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of an incumbent. An incumbent may be ask to perform other duties required. This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions and position responsibilities. Nothing in the job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Incumbent must be able to perform the essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodation.
Application Process:
Applications may be obtained from the City of Guntersville Personnel Office at 341 Gunter Avenue, Guntersville, AL or visit our website at www.guntersvilleal.org. Completed applications for qualified applicants should be returned Personnel Office via hand delivery, US mail, fax, or email. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
THE CITY OF GUNTERSVILLE IS A DRUG/ALCOHOL FREE WORKPLACE
EQUAL OPPORNUNITY EMPLOYER
PARTICIPATES IN E-VERIFY
- Police Officer
***JOB ANNOUCEMENT***
(Internal/External)Job Title: Police Officer
Department: Police Dept.
Shift: Rotating
Classification: Hourly, Non-Exempt
Pay Grade: PS Grade 6
Announcement Number: 24-04Announcement Date:
Closing Date: When Position is FilledNature of Work
The incumbent of this position is responsible for the protection of life and property through the enforcement of Federal, State, and City laws and ordinances. Following proper police protocol, this position is responsible for, but not limited to, patrolling, surveillance, traffic control, apprehension of law violators, public relations, preservation of peace and public order, repress and prevent crime, and preparing related paperwork and reports. Every Police Officer, regardless of assignment such as Ordinance Enforcement, School Resource Officer, Park Ranger, or K-9 Officer shall abide by the job description set in place for each titled position, as this will ultimately remain the primary function of the aforementioned titles. Work is performed under the supervision of the shift Lieutenant/Sergeant.Essential Functions
• Protects lives and property through the enforcement of laws and ordinances; patrols a designated area of City on foot or in a radio equipped car to preserve law and order and provide routine preventive patrol in residential and business areas; provides security at school events and civic functions.
• Responds to a wide variety of calls and complaints relayed by dispatcher, both routine and emergency including domestic disputes, burglaries, traffic accidents, assaults, shootings, murders, and other misdemeanors and felonies; responds to emergency alarms; responds to fire calls and assist rescue personal; directs traffic during civic functions, funeral processions, roadway hazards, etc.; assist stranded motorist and administers first aid when needed.
• Conducts preliminary investigations, gathers evidence, obtains witnesses; makes arrest, transport prisoners to jail, and process offenders; performs investigation to help determine cause of accident.
• Issues civil or legal documents such as traffic citations; serves legal documents such as subpoenas and warrants; prepares detailed Incident/Accident investigation reports, wreck reports, and arrest reports; maintain required records of activities and events while on duty.
• Give recommendations, as well as general information, to public on laws and ordinances relating to home or business security, child safety, neighborhood watches, etc.
• Required to testify and present evidence in court proceedings when necessary.
• Operates a variety of equipment used in police work including Breathalyzer machine, mobile or base two-way radio, traffic radar unit, Taser, computers and other related or assigned equipment.
• Must keep shift Sergeant/Lieutenant and other supervisors informed of work conditions, needs, and critical situations related to daily work, objective, and goals of the department.
• Attends in-service training, and technical or professional classes or seminars to maintain required certification or improve technical or professional skills.
• These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive duties. Other duties and responsibilities may be added, deleted, or changed at any given time at the discretion Chief of Police and/or immediate supervisor. It may be done formally or informally, either verbally or in writing.
•Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Working knowledge of modern police operations, principles, practices, and procedures with the ability to apply this knowledge to specific situations.
• Working knowledge of federal, state, and local laws as they pertain to law enforcement; knowledge of department SOG’s, rules, and regulations.
• Knowledge of geography of the City or ability to acquire this knowledge.
• Proficient skill in the use and care of firearms, Taser, Draeger, NCIC, self- defense, PBT, chemical sprays, vehicles, and other related police equipment.
• Skill in the operation of computer and applicable software applications.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationship with supervisors, co-workers, subordinates, outside agencies, general public, and those in contact in course of work.
• Ability to enforce law fairly and impartially with tact and courtesy, or firmness if necessary.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; ability to prepare clear and concise reports.
• Ability to perform duties requiring physical endurance and agility frequently under adverse and dangerous conditions; ability to perform all essential job functions.
• Ability to react quickly and calmly in emergency situations; ability to analyze situations and to adopt quick, effective, and reasonable courses of action with regard to surrounding hazards and conditions.
• Ability to work flexible hours.
• Ability to maintain physical requirements as specified by department policy.
• Ability to exhibit professionalism at all timesMinimum Qualifications:
• Graduation from an accredited high school or G.E.D. equivalent.
• Must be at least 21 years of age at time of appointment.
• Must possess a valid unrestricted Driver’s License with a driving record suitable for insurability.
• Must possess a State of AL Peace Officers Law Enforcement Certification or obtain a lateral academy (APOST) certification at the earliest opportunity or must successfully complete police academy minimum certification within a specified time from date of appointment.
• Must present good evidence of good moral character as attested by background investigation.
• All job offers are contingent upon successfully completing background check, drug and alcohol screening, medical exam, and psychological evaluation.Necessary Special Requirements
• Willing to wear appropriate uniforms and safety equipment.
• Must be able to work flexible hours.This job description indicates in general the nature and levels of work, knowledge, skills, abilities, and other essential functions (as covered under the ADA) expected of an incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of an incumbent. An incumbent may be ask to perform other duties required. This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions and position responsibilities. Nothing in the job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Incumbent must be able to perform the essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodation.
Application Process:
Applications may be obtained from the City of Guntersville Personnel Office at 341 Gunter Ave., Guntersville, AL or visit our website at www.guntersvilleal.org. Completed applications for qualified applicants should be returned to the Personnel Department. Applications will be accepted until position is filled.THE CITY OF GUNTERSVILLE IS A DRUG/ALCOHOL FREE WORKPLACE
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
WE PARTICIPATE IN E-VERIFY - Lifeguard (Seasonal)
***JOB ANNOUNCEMENT***
External
Job Title: Lifeguard (Seasonal)
Department: Parks & Recreation
Hours: Varies
Classification: Hourly
Announcement Number: 24-02
Announcement Date: February 6, 2024
Closing Date: When Filled
Nature of Work:
This is a specialized seasonal position that is responsible for the general supervision and safety of patrons of the City Aquatics Facility by preventing and responding to emergencies, by minimizing or eliminating hazardous situations or behaviors, and enforcing safety rules. This position works under the general supervision of the Aquatics Supervisor.
Essential Functions:
- Monitors swimming pool and all related facilities during assigned shift to ensure and enforce safety codes and standards and prevent injuries and fatalities.
- Caution swimmers regarding unsafe practices and maintains the authority to discipline and/or remove violators from City pool property.
- Rescues swimmers in distress or danger of drowning.
- Administers first aid and contacts emergency personnel immediately when necessary.
- Inspects and maintains pool and swimming facility, including general cleaning duties to but not limited to, restrooms, showers, deck and pavilion.
- Collects money from pool patrons for admittance.
- Monitors patrons signing in to use pool and ensures an accurate maintenance of such lists.
- Maintains all necessary records; writes and files reports on pool activities and specific incidents and accidents as required.
- Keeps immediate supervisor and designated others fully and accurately informed concerning work progress, including present and potential work problems.
- Attends meetings and training sessions as required by Aquatics Supervisor.
- These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive duties. Other duties and responsibilities may be added, deleted, or changed at any given time at the discretion of the Aquatics Supervisor or Parks and Recreation Director.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- Thorough knowledge of standard aquatics life saving procedures, including rescuing swimmers from drowning, instructing and discipline unsafe pool practices and administering first aid.
- Thorough knowledge of First Aid instruction procedures and practices.
- Thorough knowledge of CPR and other related life saving techniques.
- Thorough knowledge of general swimming skills.
- Ability to swim at a highly competent level for the purpose of rescuing others in danger of drowning.
- Ability to react calmly and effectively in emergency situations.
- Ability to work flexible hours including weekends.
- Ability to observe multiple patrons at a time, consistently scanning the environment.
- Ability to identify and react quickly to emergencies or threats to patron safety and health.
- Ability to communicate well with others, both orally and in writing, using both technical and non-technical language.
- Ability to understand and follow oral and/or written policies, procedures and instructions.
- Ability to prepare accurate and reliable reports containing findings and recommendations.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, co-workers, emergency personal, pool patrons and general public.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Must possess a current Red Cross Lifeguard, CPR, AED & First Aid Certification.
- Must be at least 16 years of age.
Lifeguard Certification classes will be held at the Guntersville Parks & Recreation Center on the following dates:
Friday, May 3, 2024 4:00 PM – 9 PM
Saturday, May 4, 2024 8:00 AM – 8 PM
Sunday, May 5, 2024 8:00 AM – 8 PM
All lifeguard candidates must attend all 3 days. For more information about these classes contact Chris Gareri, Aquatics and Program Supervisor.
This job description indicates in general the nature and levels of work, knowledge, skills, abilities, and other essential functions (as covered under the ADA) expected of an incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of an incumbent. An incumbent may be ask to perform other duties required. This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions and position responsibilities. Nothing in the job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Incumbent must be able to perform the essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodation.
Application Process:
Applications may be obtained from the City of Guntersville Personnel Office at 341 Gunter Avenue, Guntersville, AL or visit our website at www.guntersvilleal.org. Completed applications for qualified applicants should be returned Personnel Office via hand delivery, US mail, fax, or email. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
THE CITY OF GUNTERSVILLE IS A DRUG/ALCOHOL FREE WORKPLACE
EQUAL OPPORNUNITY EMPLOYER
PARTICIPATES IN E-VERIFY
The 1/17/24 Council Meeting has been moved to 1/22/24 at 5:00 pm due to the weather.
- Council Meeting Rescheduled
The 1/16/24 Council Meeting has been moved to 1/17/24 at 5:00 pm due to the weather.
- Modified Thanksgiving Garbage Pick-UpMODIFIED THANKSGIVING GARBAGE SCHEDULEThursday’s pick-up will be on TUESDAY 11/21/23Friday’s pick-up will be on WEDNESDAY 11/22/23Gunter’s Landing swill be on their regular schedule 11/21/23**As a reminder all garbage needs to be out at 5am**