Mike Bauer

Key discussions during the Work Session included a presentation on the Thriving Communities Active Transportation Plan, which aims to improve pedestrian and cycling safety in the city. The Engineering/Public Works Director provided an update on actions from the previous Planning Commission Meeting. The City Clerk provided numerous advisories regarding upcoming scheduled meetings, including regular Council Meetings, Planning Commission Meetings, and Board of Zoning Adjustments and Appeals Meetings throughout February and March 2026. Other topics included clarifying that the City has no jurisdiction over the privately owned shopping complex associated with the closing Piggly Wiggly store, encouraging respect and dignity among citizens, and congratulating an individual for an award received at the Black History Breakfast.

The City Council meeting included the presentation and recognition of an Arbor Day proclamation. Key resolutions ratified or approved addressed several municipal matters: authorizing Change Order No. 2 for improvements to Moon Lake at Idle Hour Park; renewing the city's tax structure for the upcoming fiscal year; authorizing legal proceedings against Spire Alabama, Inc., and Miller Pipeline Corporation regarding damages to stormwater infrastructure; authorizing Change Order No. 2 for the Miracle Field at Lakewood Park Project; approving resolutions for the installation of multiple LED street lights on Fontaine Road and at Summerville Road/Magnolia Place; authorizing an application to ALDOT for funding assistance for the resurfacing of Seale Road; authorizing the submission of the BUILD grant application for the PEL study; rejecting all bids for Hot Mix Asphalt Paving projects; authorizing an agreement with KPJ Lawn Services, LLC for cemetery maintenance; approving the Water Filtration Plant ADEM permit modification application; authorizing the purchase of plug valves and check valves for the Holland Creek Lift Station upgrade; authorizing the purchase of flowmeters from TriNova, Inc.; accepting updated pricing from Pace Labs for annual testing costs; and approving an Itemized Statement of Expense for one Councilmember. Discussions also included community updates regarding a property closing and tributes to the late Reverend Jesse Jackson.

Key discussions for the City Council meeting include proposed resolutions concerning a moratorium on annexations from Russell and Lee Counties, an agreement with the Russell County Emergency Management Agency regarding fee waivers for a new EMA building construction, and authorizing lease agreements for postage machines. Further resolutions address declaring various items as surplus for sale or disposal, including personal property for a nominal sum to the Muscogee County Sheriff's Department. The Finance Department resolution covers purchasing a 2026 Ford F-250 pickup truck and hiring Terry Construction for a building enclosure at the Waste Water Treatment Plant. New legislation presented includes an ordinance for a sales tax holiday exemption in July 2026 and an ordinance amending schedules for municipal sales, use, water, and sewer rates.

This Urban Renewal and Redevelopment Plan for Phenix City, Alabama, aims to eliminate and prevent the spread of blighting and deteriorating conditions within the central city. Its primary goals include stabilizing commercial and residential areas, fostering private reinvestment, promoting sound community growth, and providing adequate low/moderate-income housing. Key focus areas involve revitalizing Downtown and the 13th Street Corridor, enhancing multi-modal mobility, and protecting the Chattahoochee River, ultimately seeking to create a sustainable, safe, and quality urban environment.

This 2025 State of the City Address for Phenix City provides an overview of the city's mission, core values, and a comprehensive report on recent achievements and future initiatives. Key focus areas include financial stewardship through successful grant acquisitions, ongoing infrastructure and utility development projects, promotion of commercial and industrial growth, and enhancements in public services such as fire, parks and recreation, and library operations. The overarching purpose is to detail efforts in providing exceptional customer service, upholding public trust, and advancing the community's vision, with specific goals targeted for the year 2025.