Karen B Evans

The Work Session focused primarily on addressing questions regarding the recent audit reports with the auditor, Wayne Barber. Key recurring weaknesses discussed included the lack of segregation of duties, which is common for municipalities of Montevallo's size, and the preparation of financial statements. An issue with audit adjustments due to a new payroll company was noted as resolved. Concerns regarding revenue collection security at the Golf Course and Park & Rec were highlighted, along with steps taken to mitigate theft risks. Other topics included updates from the Fire Chief and Police Chief, discussions on sustainability initiatives such as a sidewalk priority list and an anti-tethering ordinance, updates on veteran's banners and Christmas decorations, reports from the Public Works Director, Golf Manager, and Library Director, and educational updates concerning local schools. The Council also discussed an upcoming proclamation for Human Trafficking Awareness Month.

The agenda for the session included committee reports and consideration of bills from committees focused on Public Health and Safety, Sustainability, Recreation and Community Development, Education Arts & Outreach, and Finance Economic Development & Tourism. New business items slated for discussion included authorizing the transfer of portable Harris XL-185P Radio Units to the Montevallo Fire and EMS from Shelby County Commission, and two requests concerning the placement of a memorial bench and a historical marker in Shoal Creek Park.

The work session included departmental reports from the Police and Fire Departments, updates on landscaping initiatives, and reminders about community events like the Tour de Cure and the Shoal Creek Park Master Plan meeting. Key discussions centered on introducing a monthly financial report for Parks & Recreation, with year-to-date revenue noted from tournaments and rentals. Significant time was dedicated to the financial status of the Golf Course, which has accumulated substantial debt to the city, prompting discussion on hiring an external consultant for a maximum of $30,000, contingent upon matching funds from the University of Montevallo (UM). The Junior Council and Library updates were also provided. The formal meeting session included a Public Hearing concerning the proposed Downtown Historic District, where questions were taken regarding guidelines, governing bodies, and the review process. New business involved authorizing the creation of the non-profit Shoal Creek Park Foundation, approving the purchase of a new police car, and authorizing separate credit cards for department heads. The matter of the Golf Course management transition back to UM was postponed for further investigation.

The Work Session provided updates on departmental activities amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, including police and fire department efforts, and the opening of safe places during a storm. Discussions covered updates from the Arbor Board and ValloCycle, including securing a new bike rack location and challenges with plastic film recycling collection. The Sustainability Coordinator mentioned the upcoming presentation of a University of Montevallo Capstone Class study findings and the cancellation of Trade Days. Public Works reported minimal storm damage and noted two department vacancies would remain unfilled during the crisis; also noted was the repair of Bulldog Bridge. The Director of Parks & Recreation confirmed the Senior Center is delivering frozen meals weekly, youth sports are cancelled with refunds issued, and parks trails are seeing usage while adhering to distancing guidelines; the Golf Course remains closed but maintained. The Planning Commission is set to review two Dollar General Store site plans. The Parnell Memorial Library reported on expanding e-book access, launching an online reading program, continuing storytime videos, providing library Wi-Fi in the parking lot, and delivering books with senior meals. The Main Street Director encouraged local business support, noting restaurants are offering curbside service. The City Clerk reported on initial revenue stability but anticipated changes in April and May, leading to the formation of an Economic Sustainability Task Force. Additional agenda items reviewed included a Child Abuse Prevention Proclamation, approval of an ALDOT paving/widening project for Hwy 25, a request for a garbage refund (not acted upon), and approval to add police laptops to the IT service agreement. Old Business included postponing a paving request and approving a Lease Purchase Agreement with Government Capital Corporation for financing a Financial Software Suite. The subsequent regular meeting approved the minutes from March 23, 2020, and addressed citizen participation regarding city cleaning post-employee COVID-19 exposure, curfew policy reconsideration, tennis court reopening, and Dollar General site plan inquiries. Committee reports were summarized, and payment of bills was approved.

The proceedings covered a Work Session and a subsequent regular Council Meeting. Key discussions included the presentation and review of the fiscal year ending September 30, 2017 audit, which resulted in a 'clean' opinion. Department reports covered police activities, fire department training progress, public works updates on sidewalk improvements and debris cleanup, and issues with curbside garbage pick-up service. The Council also discussed the proposed Food Truck Ordinance, noting concerns regarding duration limits and the removal of non-fixed items. Other business included updating the Council on departmental activities like Critters by the Creek, fundraising for the Junior City Council, and the success of the Tinglewood Festival. The Council ultimately delayed action on the Financial Audit presentation and reviewed the draft 2018-2019 Financial Budgets, scheduling dates for their approval. Additionally, the Council discussed looking into providing a White Goods pick-up service for residents.