Drew Money

Key discussions included the status of the Vanity Fair building, involving potential leasing of warehouse space to David Cox's company while awaiting Verano's licensing outcome, and authorizing Chief Johnson to proceed with sprinkler repairs costing less than $25,000. The police report detailed activity including calls for service, traffic stops, arrests, and the successful sale of surplus equipment totaling $34,825. Park updates noted registration start dates and expected completion of the splash pad. An update on the airport grant for taxiway replacement indicated a projected start in June, which will require temporary closure of taxiway access for Leon Hiebert's hangar. Library plans included an upcoming dinner theatre event. Fire/Rescue reported routine operations. The council also discussed the city obtaining good dirt from the Cenergy grading project. Discussion occurred regarding a proposed $500,000 zero-interest loan for a new sobriety rehab center, requiring a future council resolution. Resolution 011226 was adopted, assessing cleanup and demolition costs of $10,118.40 for the Tom Crowell property near the airport. Other items included a council member planning to attend Advocacy Day, a request to discuss who should cover costs for required elected official education classes, a report on the new bucket truck, and recognition of a Fire Department member's upcoming retirement.

The council discussed old business regarding a property at the airport and agreed to proceed with cleanup. The police department reported calls for service, traffic stops, citations, warnings, and arrests. The park report included updates on cleaning, repairs, and potential new courts, with approval for additional pickleball courts. A recommendation was made to replace the chairman of the Airport Authority. Updates were given on the Vanity Fair building, including electrical work and sprinkler system checks. The 2025-26 budgets were adopted, and Resolution 092225 for the Municipal Intercept Services Debt Recovery Program was approved. Event requests for the Friendliest City Festival, Treats-on-Us, Haybales & Waggin Tails, and the 2nd Annual Witch Ride were also approved.

The council discussed various topics, including updates on property matters, administrative and police reports, park maintenance, airport improvements, library activities, fire/rescue services, and economic development. Appointments were made for Municipal Judge, City Prosecutor, City Attorney, Building and License Inspector, and Chief of Police. The council also addressed filling vacancies on the Southeast Alabama Gas Board and the Planning Commission. Event requests for the Christmas Tree Lighting and Christmas Parade were approved. Discussions also took place regarding the city taking over garbage services within city limits and the electric department's need for new trucks and an additional employee. There was also a discussion about improving a city-owned parking lot.

The meeting addressed several key issues, including potential repairs to the Vanity Fair building and interest from multiple parties in leasing or purchasing it. The council discussed cleaning up properties at the airport and on E 5th Street, and reviewed administrative and police reports. Updates were provided on park maintenance and the progress of the splash pad installation. The council approved a proposal to replace the airport's fuel system, acknowledged personnel changes at the library, and discussed economic development initiatives, including the Friendliest City Festival. They also considered a request for a retail liquor license for El Rey Mexican Bar and Grill and approved the 2nd Annual Christmas Trail event at Douglas Park.

The council discussed the cleanup of the Crowell property at the airport and potential renovations to the old Vanity Fair building. Inspections were approved for the Vanity Fair building, and a potential lease agreement was discussed. The police department reported on calls for service, traffic stops, citations, and arrests. Park maintenance and upgrades were reported, including work on the walking trail, bleacher stands, and basketball goals. The airport received its operational license, but tree issues need to be addressed. A resolution was presented and adopted for appointing election officers for the 2025 Run-Off Municipal Election. A homecoming parade permit and an event request for a Trunk-or-Treat event were approved. A request to make the park director position full-time was tabled for further discussion. A budget committee meeting will be scheduled, and a resolution will be prepared for Robyn Snellgrove's retirement from Economic Development.