City Council - Regular Meeting

may be passing that over if I can't

I just can't quit. I mean I just [snorts] but I might be good.

[clears throat]

Yes.

Cool. All right. Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. Welcome to the business meetings for the city of Prable. [snorts] Um, I am battling a bout with bronchitis. So, went to the doctor. Nothing contagious. Um, just trying to get some some stuff out of my upper airways. So, hopefully we'll make it through tonight. And if not, I will pass the gavl right on over to councelor Chambers and let him carry forth. But [snorts] uh we do have one public hearing tonight and then we'll move into our regular council agenda. Madam clerk, will you please call the role? Councelor Newman here. Councelor Jackson

here. Councelor Chambers here. Councelor Merrick here. Councelor Wley here. Councelor Stretch. Councelor Langley here. Having quorum present, I call this public hearing to order. [snorts] We have uh one item tonight is a resolution to grant a restaurant retail liquor license to Logan's Roadhouse Enterprises LLC doing business as Logan's Roadhouse 472. [snorts] Is there anyone here who wishes to speak in favor of this item? If you would sign in and state your um name for us.

Thank you. Um I'm Chloe Champion. Um I'm an attorney with Burn Foreman and we represent Logan's Roadhouse and we are here in favor of um the granting of the license um to the Logan's Roadhouse.

Do y'all have any questions for us? Good. No questions. No. None. Is that all? Good. Yes. Awesome. Thank you so much. Is there anyone else who wishes to speak in favor of this item?

All right. Is there anyone here who wishes to speak in opposition of this item? [snorts] All right. Hearing none, we'll call this public hearing closed. At this time, you're invited to stand for a pledge of allegiance and our invocation, which I will give after that. I aliance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

Please bow with me. Heavenly Father, God, we do thank you again for an opportunity uh to gather together here, Lord, to do business of the city. Uh [snorts] Father, we pray that we have uh gone through the packets that are here tonight. God, we have asked for your guidance and your leadership as we make decisions uh Lord that affect the members of our community. Uh God, we just thank you again for the provisions you give us. We thank you for your blessings that you continue to bestow upon us. We thank you for this day and the beautiful weather that we've had today. We just pray that you be with us now and help everything that we do here honor you. And it's in Christ's name we pray. Amen. Amen. Madam cler, will you call the role, please?

Councelor Newman here. Councelor Jackson here. Councelor Chambers. Councelor Merritt here. Councelor Wley. Councelor. Councelor Boom. Councelor Langley here. All right. Having a quorum present, I call this meeting to order. [snorts]

Character trait of this month is alertness. Being aware of what is taking place around me so I can have the right responses. Next item on our agenda is approval of the minutes. These should have been received by you all um prior to and hopefully you've had an opportunity to look at those. They from our public hearing February 17, 2026 and the city council meeting of February 17, 2026. At this time, the chair will entertain a motion to approve these minutes. So moved. Moved by councelor Chambers. Is there a second? Second.

Can second by councelor Jackson. [snorts] All in favor of approving the minutes, please signify by raising your right hand. And these minutes are approve approved unanimously. [snorts] [clears throat] All right. At this time, we'll welcome any comments from persons present regarding tonight's agenda. We'll have anyone who wishes to speak on items of tonight's agenda line up in the middle aisle. You'll be called to print your name and address, and then you'll have up to five minutes to address the council. All right. Not seeing any. Mr. Mayor, do you have a report? Yes, sir.

Thank you. It's good to see everyone again. counselors. Uh I think we all know Friday evening, uh Pratt will enjoy a a great 25th annual Black History program. Uh performances showcase so much talent and our guest speaker Wanda Battle did a wonderful job. I want to thank the program committee whose dedication and efforts are the reasons this event continues to impress, improve, and endure. This community is so blessed to have um that much talent uh here in Prael. So again, it was a great event. glad that the ones who could attend were there. Uh counselors, in the spirit of open communication, I'd like to report that the Condre team met with department heads virtually today and discuss the [snorts] classification and compensation plan study project and staff's role in collecting information. Counselors, I'd also like to report that um a difficult decision is having to be made. Uh that decision is to not open Pratt Pool for the 2026 season. Uh our pool was built uh in the 70s. The facility is experiencing age related deterioration, including voids beneath slabs and behind walls that could result in sudden failure. Prior repair methods are no longer viable. Without risking further damage out of abundance of caution and the interests of public safety, we will not open the pool this season. This time will allow for further evaluation and development for a long-term improvement plan. We recognize the impact the impact of on our families and senior citizens who use Pratt Pool during the summer months and we are coordinating with YMCA to explore alternate swim opportunities. Councelor Langley, thank you for showing for our meeting the other day. uh councelor stretch was there as well as staff and um I think it was a very good meeting, very productive. But uh um we will post on our city website and social media

pages as they come available what options and and the status of our of our swimming pool for this upcoming year. Council, I am happy to announce that the library reopened last Wednesday uh and it has extended its hours on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. The stabilization project was completed on February 20th at [snorts] a cost of approximately $93,000. This is significantly below the $368,000 originally approved by the council in December for the repair. Again said repair, but that was really stabilization. There's still a lot of other work. Um the irrigation system was damaged during this period of time. I've actually told staff, don't worry about replacing that right now. So still a lot of vegetation. We actually hope there might be another there might be a segue into either one of two different things. One could be a potential new wing here or maybe additional partnerships uh in another area. So, uh we'll definitely keep everyone informed on that. Counselors, agenda item one regarding a library contract for services. We all know it's again before you. My steadfast position remains to table this resolution, keep communications open among the library board, city council, my office, work through concessions and proposed changes to the draft agreement, and then come back when the budget process for the new fiscal year begins. That's what I would like. Um, it is in y'all's arena. I will ask this council not politicalize politicalize this arm of our city. This is a lot different than so many of our community initiatives. This um entity, our library uh was formed by the county and the city and um so it is our baby.

Uh would like to as I move on just like to say pardon our robo mo mower that's right out front. If you happen to see a robotic mower docked at city hall, rest assured it is part of our ongoing efforts to improve operational efficiency. We plan to add four additional units this year and will continue evaluating other suitable locations for their use. These mowers are intended to enhance efficiency and productivity. Their implementation will not result in any staff reductions. Instead, it is a force multiplier for our workforce. Councilors would like to also bring everyone's attention that a Taga County pals is hosting a free communitywide drive through shred event on Saturday, March 7th, 2026 from 8:00 am to 11:30 a.m. the Tall County Commission parking lot. That's 135 North Court Street. Please take advantage of this event. you know, through this uh shredding event is actually one way to help save some trees because those all that will get recycled. And I use that as a segue into our Arbor Day. Our Arbor Day, I believe, was a very much a success this year. Um there was a lot of great turnout early that morning. There was a little bit of liquid sunshine midm morning that uh still even brought people out, but they gave away a lot a lot of trees from different species that um I think will be beneficial to this community for many decades to come. With that said, I'd like to also report that uh during this event, for this event, um and other reasons as well, uh staff has planted 30 trees, some in around Pratt Park and other areas around town. They have 30 already in the ground with 20 more to go in the very next several weeks or so. So, I hope people will uh get out and about as we get into uh

springtime and everything so that way we can um u plant a garden, get out in the fresh air and [snorts] enjoy some of God's love. Uh let's see. counselors. Also, if anyone is interested in a maintenance or or manufacturing career path, please attend CAC Central Alabama Community College Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education or FAME. It's a spring showcase on Monday, March the 9th from 400 pm to 7 pm at CAC uh Pattlesh campus, 1320 Oidge Road, where you can network with program instructors and learn more about this innovative earn while you learn program. Also, another U public service announcement, daylight savings time starts Sunday, so don't forget to spring for it.

Council President, if I might, I'd like to ask for a personal point of privilege. Yes sir.

Thank you. Um this time two weeks ago as I was standing here and actually prior to that um I was having I thought was some indigestion. Um come to find out it was not indigestion. It's actually one way that the good Lord was letting me know who was in charge. And um later on that evening I had to um reach out to our red team, our fire department. and uh they gave me a little little ride to Montgomery. And I tell you, we're so so blessed to have so many of the the technology, the personnel, the the workforce, just the the networking um of [snorts] our first responders and our um medical teams in this area. And I know around the state there's several areas that um are not as fortunate as we are. And it probably had not been for that, I might not be standing here today. And um there's some that I say I do have a heart. And uh in the hospital, they were able to uh to prove that. And but I just want to say thank you to the council for reaching out and everyone else who's reached out to me through text messages, prayers, and well wishes. Um, I'm just blessed, so blessed to, um, live in a community that care so much. But, Council President, that's the end of my report.

Thank you, sir. Are there any questions from the council for the mayor? U, Bill, we're so glad to see you here tonight and we're thankful that everything worked out for you. My question is, um, when we went to the library and we looked at some additional parking, has that been done yet? Is there a a time frame if it has not? I saw them clearing what I thought was prepping for that. Uh, it has not been done. Um, I will be glad to get back with you on a a date when that should be. Okay, that's fine. I just I knew that the prepping was going on and I haven't been by there, so I just wanted to check. And again, we're glad we're glad you're here. We're glad you're healthy.

Thank you. Thank you. No other questions. We'll move into reports uh from council on special committees. Councelor Newman, I have no report. Okay. Councelor Jackson, no. Councelor Chambers, no. Councelor Merrick, no, sir. Councelor Langley, no. And I have none. [cough] [clears throat]

Tonight, we have the opportunity to create a consent agenda. There are 11 items to consider on this agenda and they are [snorts] number one, a resolution to authorize a city attorney to fix the cost for the removal of garbage and rubbish at 215 Holly Court. Number two is a resolution to authorize the city attorney to affix the cost for the removal of garbage and rubbish at 249 Murphy Drive. Number three is a resolution to authorize the city attorney to fix the cost for the removal of garbage and rubbish at 330 332 County Row 4 East. Item number four is a resolution authorize the city attorney to affix the cost for the removal of garbage and rubbish at 516 East Main Street. Item number five is a resolution to declare the garbage and rubbish at 1388 Serenity Drive a public nuisance and authorize the mayor to abate and charge any incurred expenses pursuant to chapter 46 city of Pratville code of ordinances. Item number six is a resolution to declare the garbage and rubbish at 1386 Serenity Drive a public nuisance and authorize the mayor to abate and charge any incurred expenses pursuant to chapter 46 city of Pratville code of ordinances. Item number seven is a resolution to declare the garbage and rubbish at 1388 vivid place a public nuisance and authorize the mayor to abate and charge any incurred expenses pursuant to chapter 46 city of Prattville code of ordinances. Item number eight is a resolution to declare the garbage and rubbish at 324 Marlet Drive a public nuisance and authorize the mayor to abate and charge any incurred expenses pursuant to chapter 46 city of Prattville code of ordinances.

[snorts] Item number nine is a resolution to surplus personal property from wastewater. Item number 10 is a resolution to surplus various items of personal property from urban management. And item number 11 is a resolution to declare the garbage and rubbish at 1642 Dodgers Drive a public nuisance and authorize the mayor to abate and charge any incurred expenses pursuant to chapter 46, City of Prattville Code of Ordinances. Do I hear a motion to create a consent agenda? So move. Uh, we'll go with move by councelor Merritt. Can I have a second? Second.

Second by councelor Jackson. All in favor of creating a consent agenda, please signify by raising your right hand. And this consent agenda has been created unanimously. Um, [clears throat] now the consent agenda is before us. Do I hear a motion to adopt the consent agenda? So move. Moved by councelor Chambers. Is there a second? Second.

Second by councelor Jackson. Is there any discussion on the consent agenda? All right, not hearing any. Um, all in favor of adopting the consent agenda, please signify by raising your right hand. And the consent agenda is adopted unanimously. We'll now [clears throat] move into our regular agenda where item number one is a resolution [snorts] uh to authorize the mayor to sign a contract for services with the Itaka Prab public library for funding as allocated in the 2025 2026 budget. This was held from 217 uh 26 and is properly before us. Is there any discussion?

Uh yes sir. My understanding is there's some more revisions that have been sent to the uh library board. Is that correct, sir?

Yes. So, um we did receive some communication back from the library board that was disseminated to the council. Uh it was also sent to the city attorney uh where some opinions were made on several of the items um that the city's position was in agreeance with and then a few items that the city uh attorney's position was not necessarily in agreeance with. Um, so the items where we were in agreeance were changed in the draft of the contract and it was uh sent by the city attorney to myself today and then resent back to um the library board. So I received a call from the library board prior to this meeting. Um he has disseminated that to the board members and the library's attorney. Um, and they are reviewing those changes now.

Well, considering that, I think that it's prudent for us to allow them to review that um, and give us more feedback or or or maybe even say they they like what they see. Um, so I'd like to make that motion to hold until they have a chance to to review it. Uh, personally, I would love to see this held till the 2nd of April simply because I will not be able to attend the next council meeting and I definitely would like to uh be there when we do vote on this. That would be April. 7th, I think it's the second 7th. 7th, I'm sorry.

All right. So, we do have a motion to hold till April the 7th. Um, by councelor Chambers. Do I hear a second? Second. Second by councelor Merritt. Uh, [snorts] all in favor of a motion to hold until April the 7th. Is there any discussion on the motion to hold?

Yeah, I just want to [clears throat] Sorry. I just want to make a comment that um [laughter] this is taking a little bit more time than I thought it was going to take to get done and I don't want to keep kicking the can down the road while we're paying. So, I would just ask that we think about at some point if we're continuing to kick this can for 12 months, we've been paying while we don't have a contract. And I don't like that from a fiduciary responsibilities standpoint. So we need to really look at some sort of backs stop on monies until we work this out because normally in the corporate world work doesn't start till a contract's agreed on. So we've been operating in a like forlike manner for the time being under the opice that we were going to be uh given a contract in a reasonable amount of time. So, I'm not saying we need to shut things down now, but and I don't have a problem kicking the can one more time, but my patience is wearing thin. So, I think we need to be able to get this. This is a simple process for a contract. We should be able to get between all of us a basic contract, get something agree with the library, and let's move on. So, I'm just I'm expressing that frustration in the discussion portion. I've already talked to the city attorney about it um a little bit this morning. So, I wanted to make my feelings on that known. I'm in favor of this, but I'm I'm I want to make it known that I I think our time is running short. My patience is running short.

Okay. [snorts] Any other discussion on the motion to hold?

Yeah. Um I guess I'm kind of in agreeance with Wade. [clears throat] Uh I think we thought that this may have been a matter that would be resolved by now. And I guess if we're going to continue to delay, delay, delay, we may have to as a council look at possibly uh holding funding. And I'm not saying shut them down, but I think we are aware now, it came out that they did have um a couple hundred,000 in reserve. So, I think if we were to hold off on funding until we got the contract resolved, then that would not put them in a tough situation where they would be shut down. Considering that information that we found out, I don't know, maybe a month ago that they still had uh I don't know, two 200 over $200,000 in reserve that's rolled over. But um it's just our responsibility as a council to make sure that we have these mechanisms in place to make sure everything is doing being done uh right. Not saying that they've done anything wrong, but we're just trying to do our due diligence considering uh based on resolutions from and I keep going back based on resolutions from 1984, 1982 that uh it was our responsibility. Those already have been written they've been in written in stone for years via resolution. So what we're doing now, you know, is just doing our responsibility as a council, but that's it.

Well, just just to add to it, I'm not in any way upset with the library services or what they're doing, none of that. I have no issue with the library itself. I just want to resolve this issue. And I think the only way that we can incentivize this to move quicker, I think, is to let them know that we do have a a point at which we're going to become overly frustrated with this. So, so Paul, let me ask you a quick question. Is there any other county, city, um, entities that does does not have a contract services already in place? Do you know?

I don't believe we have a contract for the airport at this point. um not drafted either, but um and then I believe the health department does not have a contract this year that's been executed either. All right. There's one there for the health department, but it has not been executed. Okay. Well, I think we need to keep that same mindset when we're talking about uh keeping across the board and and and I agree. I'd like to get all of them done,

right? I absolutely agree 100%. Is there any other discussion on the motion to hold until April the 7th? All right, not hearing any. Uh, all in favor of holding till April the 7th, signify by raising your right hand. And any oppose like sign [snorts] [snorts] item, excuse me, [clears throat] item number two is a resolution to grant a restaurant, retail, liquor license to Logan's Roadhouse Enterprises LLC doing business as Logan's Roadhouse 472. [snorts] Councelor Chambers, will you introduce this resolution? Yes, sir. Whereas Logan's Roadhouse Enterprises LLC doing business as Logan's Roadhouse 472 has applied for a restaurant, retail, liquor license for a business located at 2775 Legends Parkway, Prattville, Alabama 36066. And whereas a public hearing was set by resolution book 2026 page 29 on February 3rd, 2026 and held March 3rd, 2026 at 6 p.m. that at such time and place all persons who desired had an opportunity to be heard in favor of or in opposition to such resolution. Now therefore, be it resolved that the city council of the city appraal hereby approves the issuance of a restaurant, retail, liquor license to Logan's Roadhouse Enterprises LLC, doing business as Logan's Roadhouse 472 for the business located at 2775 Legends Parkway, Praville, Alabama 36066. So move.

We have a [clears throat] motion. Is there a second? Second. Second by councelor Jackson. Is there any discussion on this item? Okay, not hearing any. Uh, all in favor of uh this resolution signify by raising your right hand. And this resolution does pass unanimously. [cough and clears throat]

Item number three uh is an ordinance to exempt certain covered items from the mis municipal sales and use tax during the third full weekend of July 2026 as authorized by state code 40-23210 through 40-23213 code of Alabama 1975 as amended generally referred to as back to school sales tax holiday legislation. Councelor Chambers, will you introduce this ordinance?

Yes, sir. Be it ordained by the city council of the city of Prattville as follows. Section one and conformity with the provisions of section 402310 through 402313 code of Alabama 1975 as amended providing for a state sales tax holiday. The city of Praville, Alabama exempts covered items from municipal sales and use tax during the same period beginning at 12:01 a.m. on the 3rd Friday in July, which is the 17th uh 2026, and ending at 12 midnight the following Sunday, July 19th, 2026. Uh section two is this ordinance shall be subject to all terms, conditions, definitions, time periods, and rules as provided by section 4023-210 through section 402313 code of Alabama 1975 as amended except that the time period shall only be as specified in section one above and not for all years thereafter. Section three. The city clerk is hereby authorized and directed to certify a copy of this ordinance under the seal of the city of Prattville, Alabama and to forward said certified copy to the Alabama Department of Revenue to be recorded and posted on the department website. Section four. This ordinance shall become effective upon its passage and publication as required by law. So move.

All right, we have a motion. Do we have a second? Second. Second by councelor Newman. as a port of port of point of order. This ordinance will be held until our 31726 meeting. Item number four is a resolution to authorize a purchase of one 2026 Ford Transit camera van through HGAC purchasing cooperative contract number SC06-24 from Elk Elk doing business as Q's incorporated for wastewater at a cost not to exceed $287,543.72. Councelor Newman, will you introduce this resolution?

Yes, sir. Whereas Wastewater has identified a need to purchase one 2026 Ford Transit camera van with related equipment. And whereas that camera van is available through the HGAC purchasing cooperative contract number SC06-24 from Alexi Q's Incorporated at a cost not to exceed $287,543.72. And whereas this is a budgeted expense in the wastewater enterprise fund. Now therefore be it resolved that the city council of the city of travel that funds an account to exceed $287,543.72 cents are hereby authorized and approved to be paid to Alexi Q's Incorporated for said camera van and said funds are hereby approved and appropriated from the fiscal year 2026 budget line item wastewater capital outlay. So moved.

All right, we [snorts] have a motion. Is there a second? Second. Second by councelor Langley. Is there any discussion on this item? Not hearing any. All in favor of this item, please signify by raising your right hand. And this resolution has passed unanimously. Item number five is a resolution to amend the FY 2026 budget and authorize an additional [snorts] personnel position in the planning department at a cost not to exceed $76,200.86. Councelor [snorts] Newman, will you introduce this resolution?

Yes, sir. Whereas the planning department has identified the need for a principal planner within the planning department to assist with succession planning for the department. Now, therefore, be it resolved by the city council of the city of Pwell that the FY2026 budget is hereby amended as followed. Increase general fund state of Alabama SSUT 76,2 and I'm sorry, 86. Increased planning salaries and wages 57,582.72 increased planning FICA $4457 increased planning RSA $7,773.66 66 increased transfer to group health $6,4166 increased planning group life $22.75 be it further resolve that the city council hereby authorizes the hiring of said additional personnel and funds are to be paid for the appropriated fiscal year 2026 budget line items salary and wages FICA retirement transfer to group health and group life for the planning department we had further resolved that the human resources department is authorized implement the hiring process. So moved. [snorts]

All right, we do have a motion. Is there a second? Second. Second by councelor Jackson. Is there any discussion on this item? I have a question. Just so that our citizens have an understanding of of what we're doing. What is this new position? Where is it going to be in terms of the uh under the department head or under uh our our city planner? Okay. Um Jonathan or Lisa, either one would like to I know the answer, but it would better come from them. So,

good evening, Mayor, Council. Um so, this position would report directly to me. Um it's a position that would have subordinates um and would oversee the planning operations along with me in our department. So the the principal planner would report to me and he and I would work together or she and I would work together. Any additional questions regarding specifics? How many people are under you in terms of planning right now, Jonathan?

Right now in the planning department, we have one planner. Um, and we have an office manager and we are currently hiring for an administrative assistant that is vacant. And we have a planning technician. So, the planning technician is um hired at this point. We have a working Okay. Yes, ma'am. What we did, we actually transferred an employee from an administrative assistant position into that role. Okay. And it's working out very very very well. Good. Okay. Thank you. Yes, ma'am. You're welcome.

All right. Are there any other questions on this resolution? All right. Not hearing any. Thank you. Uh all in favor of this resolution signify by raising your right hand. And this resolution does pass unanimously. [snorts] [cough] Item number six is a resolution to authorize a release of funds for walking trail improvements at Miller Park to Construction Services LLC for parks and recreation at a cost not to exceed $65,870. Councelor Merrick, will you introduce this resolution?

Yes, sir. Whereas a need has been identified for improvements to the walking trails at Miller Park and whereas Construction Services LLC has the expertise to provide said improvements at a cost not to exceed $65,870. And whereas pursuant section section 39-2-1 code of Alabama 1975 as amended said project is a public works project. And whereas section 39-2-2 code of Alabama 1975 as amended allows contracts for public works projects under $100,000 to be let without bidding. And whereas this is a budgeted expense in parks and reg recreation. Now, therefore, be it resolved by the city council of the city of Praval that funds in amount not to exceed $65,870 are hereby authorized and approved to be paid to construction services LLC for said walking trail improvements and funds are approved and appropriated from fiscal year 2026 budget line items park and recreation/c capital outlay. Be it further resolved that the mayor is hereby authorized to execute any and all documents necessary to carry out the intent of this resolution. So move, sir.

All right, we have a motion. Is there a second? Second. Second by councelor Chambers. Is there any discussion on this resolution?

I did want to bring [clears throat] up a point. I went out to Miller Park uh uh just the other day and um to get eyes on it before the vote and um [cough] the um there was a mother out there with a couple of kids in a stroller and I asked her what she thought about the park and how she liked it. She said she loved it. It was a little hard with the gravel surface to push the stroller. She was, you know, in favor of a uh of a asphalt. And then there was an elderly lady that was doing some walking that afternoon and she said the same thing. She was coming to this park to walk, but she really enjoyed the park closer to her house. It was an asphalt. I think it's a great addition. Um, and just the few questions I asked for the people I was out there. One thing I did notice, and I know Kelly gave us a lot of good information. Um, but I did notice the uh the bridge that's out there. It's probably due for a refresh probably fairly soon, but

we're we're we're gonna get rid of that bridge.

Okay. That's that's probably a better refresh. Okay. So, but yeah, it's a great park. I I hadn't been to it. I hadn't been hadn't been out there to it. So, I went to get eyes on it and I think a lot of good feedback on the asphalt piece on it. So, all right. Thank you. Is there any other discussion on this resolution? All right. Not hearing any. All in favor of this resolution, please signify by raising your right hand. And this resolution does pass unanimously. [cough] [clears throat] Excuse me. Item number seven is uh also a resolution to amend the FY2026 budget and authorize a release of funds for the purchase of one DJI Matrix drone from [snorts] Unmanned Vehicle Technologies LLC for the police department at a cost not to exceed $15,15712. Councelor Chambers, will you introduce this resolution?

Uh yes, sir. Whereas the police department has identified a need for one DJ DJI um Matrix 30T combo drone and whereas said drone is available from Unmanned Vehicle Techn Technologies LLC at a cost not to exceed $15,15712. Now therefore be it resolved by the city council of the city of Praville that the fiscal year 2026 budget is hereby amended as follows. decrease the drug proceeds reserves by $15,15712 and increase the police capital outlay by $15,15712. Be it further resolved that funds in an amount not to exceed $15,15712 for the purchase of said drone are hereby authorized and approved to be paid to unmanned vehicle technologies LLC and said funds are approved and appropriated from fiscal year 2026 budget line item police capital outlay. So move.

All right, we have a motion. Is there a second?

Second by councelor Jackson. Is there any discussion on this item? Not hearing any. All in favor, please signify by raising your right hand. And this resolution has passed unanimously. All right. Item number eight is a resolution to authorize the mayor to enter into an agreement with Alabama Bash Trail to host an Alabama Bash Trail Tournament Series Divisional on June 13, 2026 at a cost not to exceed $9,500. Councelor Merritt, will you introduce this resolution? Yes, sir. Where is Alabama Bass Trail desires to conduct a and promote an Alabama Bass Trail tournament series divisional with a tournament date of June 13, 2026. And whereas the city of Prattville shall serve as a host for set event. And whereas the host fee for set event shall be $9,500. And whereas this is a budgeted expense of the parks and recreation department. Now therefore, be it resolved by the city council of the city of Praville that the mayor is hereby authorized to enter an agreement the Alabama Bass Trail to host said tournament on June 13, 2026. Be it further resolved that funds in the amount not to exceed $9,500 are hereby authorized and approved to be paid to Alabama Bass Trail for said tournament and said funds are approved and appropriated from fiscal year 2026 budget line items parks and recreation department/operating supplies. So move, Mr. Mr. President, thank you. We do have a motion. Is there a second?

Second. Second by councelor Chambers. Is there any discussion on this resolution? Not hearing any. All in favor of this resolution, please signify by raising your right hand. And this resolution is adopted unanimously. This concludes our regular agenda. The council welcomes comments from persons present. We'll have anyone who wishes to speak line up in the middle aisle. You'll be called to print your name and address and you'll have up to five minutes to address the council. You will please uh state your name and address and then you may begin to speak.

I brought a pencil. I thought I had a pen in my hand but I have a pencil but I printed on the form. First of all, I would like to say good um evening to all of you. [snorts] My name is Jack William Warren Jones. You may remember my having been here before a little while back. I want to first greet the mayor, Mayor Gizby, and we're so very happy that you're feeling better and God has blessed you to return to the job and continue your work for the people. To the chairman, [clears throat] Mr.

[snorts]

and also the rest of you, all the constituents. I don't feel my very best tonight, but I'm here to represent my sisters as well. I just wanted you, even though we're not on the agenda, I wanted to give you an update. We have been communicating with uh the office and we had a tarp. Well, I've gotten ahead of myself and please forgive me. But this is in reference to [clears throat] [snorts] it's in reference to uh ID reference number 19 [snorts] 03 05400 911 trip0 [snorts] uh 1037 Street Prattville Alabama and I'm Really, [clears throat] [snorts] I don't want to get up here with my personal concerns, but my oxygen level is low because right now I'm battling this little immune disorder. I have a problem sometimes when the weather change and etc. But please bear with me because I'm going to get through with this with the help of the Lord. But anyway, I wanted to update you on uh the property that I have referenced on Seventh Street. [snorts] We did cover the roof with a tarp, but because of servicing winds, that tarp, even though they had mounted it down, it had blown back. So, we're

going to have to get somebody to go up there again and reposition the tarp, but that was done. And also, we uh we were able to get a licensed structural engineer go to the property and give us an assessment of it. that assessment analysis was made and uh we've been communicating with the offices and hopefully many of you have gotten uh copies of what was communicated. But I'm just very thankful and I pray that you will continue to consider our request to continue work on the property. That was a very big job and it continues to be and we have done work everything that was required of us to do on the back. We did that and that was quite a job. So now it leaves the principal dwelling in the front. the one that was tarped. And as I was saying, excuse [clears throat] me, we got a structural um engineer to go up. He's licensed and he did give his analysis of what needs to be done. And I'm hoping that we won't need a second opinion, but we could get someone else also and just see how things, you know, match up. We were trying to prevent dismantling the entire

structure if possible and proceed with restoration, but I know you guys have timelines and I know what you're trying to do for the city and you're working with the communities on a lot of things, but I am requesting from the depth, from the deep, that you continue, if you will, to work with us on this matter and we're not just dragging our feet. And that is the truth. I also while I'm I'm up here, I would like to um thank um Mr. Jackson from district two in working so diligently to carry out his promises to the people. I would like to thank each of you and what you're doing, starting with the mayor and the rest of you and working very diligently to do your job and satisfy the community what you were elected to do. I know that you're doing that. But if it's any way possible that you can continue, you know, to work with us, I promise you we [snorts] won't let you down. I'd like to thank uh the chairman and [snorts] all of you. I remember having been here before and I remember each of you and uh I know you're working to try to do all that you can to assist

us. I think I met Miss Langley for the first time when I came before and I would like to thank her as well for uh being a mindful sustainer and working with the council and and people in the community as well to try to keep harmony and try to help uh carry out what the people in the community really expect for each of you uh to do. Okay. I would I would like to also You have five minutes, right?

Yes, ma'am. I would like to also thank um

I would like to I forgot about that. Excuse me. I would like to thank uh Reverend Lucas who is operating in the faith community to to try to help uh keep us on the cheer us up and try to help keep us on the right path spiritually. I would also like to thank our neighbors, those on each side of us, and also um the Robinsons in front. And pardon me for going over time. Yes,

I I have forgotten, but like I said, this immune disorder, it can affect I understand your thinking. Does anyone have to hear me on that? Oh, you're fine. Does anybody on the council have questions for Mr. Yes, Miss Jones. How long has this house uh been in your family? I'm sure over a hundred years. Over 100 years. Well over a hundred years.

And you and your sisters, I will assume that you guys are all retired and kind of up in age, but I know um that you guys have been working. You guys have spent money. It's not like you guys have just sat sat idly by with this project. So, I appreciate you. Um I know you and I talked and you guys have had some health concerns, but you're still doing your part. So, I appreciate that. Um this is being live streamed and I'm hoping hoping that someone listening live may be willing to come and help. Uh I see Mr. Rubin out there. I don't know if he may be able to come in and offer some assistance, but I know that you guys did get a a tarp on your house. And like I told you, you know, as a representative for district two in this community, I think it's my uh responsibility to help you guys. And I think that you guys are doing what you can considering your age, your health, and what you're doing. is not like you. You know, we have several residents that have situations like this that never come forth and try to put forth any effort. But I appreciate what you guys are doing. You know, I hope we'll get to the point one day we as a municipality see someone such as you um you all that are trying to restore your home. You know, maybe we can find some money because I know there's money out there. I look across the country, Birmingham, different places where they are coming in. So, um I just pray, you know, that we'll be able to work with you guys considering your situation and considering you guys are not sitting sitting idly by as elders in our community and wanting to because I know you guys have already paid money to remove those structures. I think three or four structures. So,

and the structure engineer, uh, you said that we may have that information. [clears throat] Uh, did you email it or send it?

Well, if you if you did not get it, uh, we can email it again because for a time the mayor has been out ill, but thankfully he has uh, returned. And I just have to say this before I sit down. I I didn't recognize him when I came initially, but I learned that Mr. Why used to be one of our students and one of my students at Marbury High School and um now he's all grown up and he's in a position where I'm saying sir to him.

No ma'am, not necessary. [laughter] But no, I'm just I'm just saying how blessed we are to have our young people rise up and do positive things. And prayerfully each of you will continue to work for the betterment of the community and also the people and I thank you very much. I don't take it for granted. Thank you, Mr.

Is there anyone else who would like to address the council? Jackie Nicks 706 Running Brook Circle. First of all, very good to see you, mayor. I'm so glad that you heeded the warning and and took care of that. So, um I think that is that all of us should pay attention to your bodies. Um especially some of us who are of a certain age. Um stuff sneaks up on you. But um I don't have prepared remarks, but I do want to address the the contract for services with the library. And um Councelor Newman, I very much appreciate your your comments about the the um the need for fiscal uh responsibility and pursuing that. Uh I do want to remind everyone and then also for those who are watching live stream, libraries, public libraries are not designed to have a um excess to to have funds o over $220,000 sitting in a bank account in excess. They are designed to be net zero budgeted entities. Money in equals money out. And I I trust that you are pursuing this as you are going back and forth with the with the um board of the library. But we the citizens with our

tax money, we deserve that when we give the money to the library that it's going to be spent on what was presented to the city as the budget. that X amount of dollars is going to be spent on books and Y amount of dollars is going to be spent on services and Z amount of dollars going to be spent on um on uh the salaries and so so on and so forth. When this library board did chose not to spend money that was budgeted and allocated, that that's not their duty. That that is fiscal irresponsibility on their part. And I'm trusting you. The people of Prattville are trusting you to make sure that this doesn't happen in the future. The money that is allocated should be spent in the way that it's supposed to be allocated, the way they budget it. If it isn't, then there should be a process. There should be a paper trail. It shouldn't be that somebody just decides, "Oh, we're not buying books. We're not doing this. We're not doing that." So, I I applaud you that we are doing a contract for services. I applaud you that we are carefully going back and forth. Um, and I do um agree with councelor Newman that this should not be a an endless kick the can situation, but our tax dollars, everybody's tightening their their um belts with the current economics. Library board should not be allowed to just willy-nilly spend the money that they're given. uh it should be for services, for books, for resources that are going to benefit our community. Thank you very much.

Thank you. [snorts] [clears throat] Is there anyone else who wishes to address the council? Yes, ma'am. Mr. Robson. [snorts]

[snorts]

Deborah Lane Taylor Robinson, 118 Cosby Court here in the city of Preville. I'm here tonight to speak on behalf of the Warren and Joneses. These are my neighbors. We they have been my neighbors for 71 and a half years. Even though neither one of us still reside on Seventh Street, we have a longl lasting legacy for Seventh Street. Their history for Seventh Street is just as deep as mine. They come from a long line of their mother and their father were great mentors for the city of Prattville. If you don't know, read your history books. I won't go into any of the details, but they are very well known in this city, not just for being a great educators, but pastors, preachers, songsters, psalmists, etc. So, I'm asking on behalf of this council this evening to grant them some grace because they are very deserving of it. Thank you so very much.

Thank you, Mr. Robinson. Is there anyone else who wishes to address the council? All right, we'll now move into our closing comments. Mr. Mayor, Council Newman,

I [clears throat] just want to say the uh the um Black History uh program that was done attended that uh was very well done. I I went to it last year as well and it is even better this time and I really um enjoyed it. Also, this uh today I went to the um mental health symposium that the probate office uh Judge Kervin put on, which uh was very well attended throughout the state by a lot of law enforcement uh personnel, particularly uh sheriff's departments uh as far out as Blunt County, Sinclair, and maybe even further. Um and she went over a lot of the things the probate office has to do as far as how they deal with mental health issues and some of the supporting agencies that support them. And I just thought it was a very good um uh I hope that she does that again maybe next year or or or in that time period. But it was very well ran, very well attended. Uh a lot of good knowledge out of it. The municipal uh group participated as well in that uh judge calling those guys were there and gave their their feedback. Very interesting, very good information. I encourage um everybody to attend if she does another one and um I was very impressed by it. All right, councelor Jackson.

Yes, sir.

Yeah, the uh program Friday night black history program u we ended it on a high note and we had a good time. I know Miss Latricia Gardner said that Friday night is her last one. But I told someone sitting next to me, I said, "I really don't think that's [snorts] true." I said she's probably like some of these rappers that retire four and five times. She'll probably be back next year. She may sit she may sit out next year, but uh she'll be back like I say like some of these rappers and boxers. But anyway, she did an uh marvelous job. It was very well attended. Um Dawson Center was packed from wall to wall. So I think that was maybe my first time seeing that many people there. But uh kudos to her and her team and uh Kelly and Maya and all of them. Um to my peers, I want to clarify one issue regarding the retaining wall at North Highland Park. And I have to bring this up considering we just celebrated Black History Month. um reading and studying, looking through the various lawsuits, looking back at Miss Sally May Had and Dan Hower and and and uh all these individuals that fought so hard for this community. They fought and built that park and so many other things for us to have those rights. So it just won't [snorts] I just can't sit back and sit idly by and not address these issues especially [snorts] that these people put their lives on the line and fought and fought to make sure that our parks and everything were equal and up to par just like everyone else's. So,

I want to clarify one issue regarding the retaining wall at North Highland Park. Based on written responses from staff, including the city engineer, it appears that no stamp structure engineer assessment exists for the green section of the retaining wall. That's section that I've talked about for years now. Uh we did one half, but that that other half, the green wall, uh it still remains. Specifically, the former city engineer stated in writing that he is not aware of a stamp structural assessment for that section and that the only documentation was an early preliminary letter. That distinction matters. A visual opinion letter [snorts] differs from a stamped structural evaluation which includes load calculations, drainage evaluation, and structural stability analysis. Given that the wall retains supporting public basketball courts. There are visible vertical cracks through multiple blocks block courses in the green wall that wasn't addressed. Soil migration and red clay leeching have been documented through the new section that was just constructed a couple years ago and the wall is part of an active public facility. My concern is simply that the council should have a complete structural record before making a long-term decision to retain that wall. This is not about questions anyone in anyone's integrity or professionalism. This is it's about documentation and due diligence. So my question tonight is straightforward. Does the city have a stamp structural engineering report evaluating the structural stability of the existing green retaining wall? If such a report exists, I respectfully

request that it be provided to the council. It if it does not exist, then I believe it would be prudent for the city to consider obtaining one before treating the existing wall as a long-term structural element of this project. Thank you. [snorts] Uh, Council Chambers. [laughter]

Well, I'd also like to uh uh just compliment I was I was able to attend the Black History program on Friday night and had a blast. Um, just Wanda Battle did a great job as the guest speaker. I was able to sit at the table with her and uh man, she was full of life and and I tell you those kids, man, they did an awesome job with the singing and uh it was just a good time. So, I was u felt blessed to be there and I look forward to going again next year and um mayor I just want to say glad you're feeling better and uh continue prayers to you for a full recovery and uh I uh would def definitely say thank you to the red team and the blue team for all they do. So, thank you. Thank you, Councelor Merrick.

Oh, you're welcome. Oh, you're asking me? Yeah. Do you have Do you have I thought he was thanking me and I was like, "Oh, you're welcome." [laughter]

Oh, sorry about that. Uh yes, sir. So, um um I did get a chance to attend the uh 25th annual Blacks History program briefly. I um I had to leave early, but I did have an opportunity to speak with u Mrs. is Wanda Brattle and she's a wonderful um lively lady and uh would have loved to hear her speak. Um the choir was great. I remember some of them that when they performed at the uh senior citizens day la last year and uh wonderful talent, song leaders um great. They're they're uh I'm a fan of course a fan of the arts and a graduate of Huntington College and uh being a speech and drama grad I'm kind of rolling into uh talking about proud cultural arts. I had reason why I had to skip out is um I attended the way off Broadway theater Neil Simon's Rumors and uh I'll tell you what um those folks that do the shows that do this the run it the costumes stage preparations um this was a fantastic program. Uh if you had an opportunity to see it was awesome. if you didn't there. We've got talent in Bravo mention [clears throat] North Island. We've got talent. Uh I am tempted to uh maybe I don't if they had a wee small part in a program down the road, I think I would uh come out of retirement after 37 [snorts] years there doing my last show at Huntington. Uh but uh it's fantastic. Um, please go see it uh any time down the road. Uh, any of their programs. Uh, Mr. Mayor, [sighs] man, I'm glad. I'm glad you're all

right. We were we were there having dinner and um you weren't feeling good. We we thought it was just something that gas or something swallowing and uh chuckled about you as you after you left and and God bless America. You know, I got a call from um good friend uh mayor next door, Al Kelly, wanted to know what I heard about you. I sent you a text just to check on you the the ne the following day to see how you were. And u it hit home, brother. Um your family, your family to this community, family to us don't know what we do. Thank God you're here. God has God's not ready to take you yet. So, thank God you're back. And u that's all I got to say. Thank you, Councelor Langley.

Um I just want to kind of double down on what Marcus stated about the wall at North Highlands. And um I was sitting here pondering that whenever Pratt Park was redone a couple of years ago. Um the entire thing was redone, it was redone beautifully. Um absolutely up to par. And I would like to see North Highlands done to that degree as well. I think that [clears throat] um we we owe it to the entire community for each and every park to be just as beautiful as as the next. and not not cut corners. Um, the other thing that I just would like to make a comment about, I don't, you know, I've not been doing this very long and I I don't [snorts] know how we get to where we are without having contracts for services in each and every um venue, entity. Um, I don't understand how how we get there. Um, I would like Paula, if you don't mind, for it to email us the health department um contract for services, the old one, I guess. And um I I wonder has the airport ever had one? And um I can do a records request for that, but that's absolutely something that we need to do as a council. Um to my knowledge, the the manager at venue still does not have a contract for services and um that's our responsibility to ensure that these things take place. Um so guys, I think we've got some work to do uh in a in a work session to to start asking questions and and working on these contracts. Um, this is a fidiciary responsibility that we have to our constituents to not only know where the

money is going, but to know what each entity um brings to the game so that we can have the correct expectations and we can have accountability um when we need that. So, thank you.

All right. Thank you. And for myself, um, I mentioned last meeting that we were going to have a process to [snorts] collect public input for [clears throat] naming the venue at 124 West Main Street. [snorts] Um, a public input form will be posted on city website with notification posted on city social media. The form will be open to the public um, residents of the city of Pratville. It will open at 8:00 a.m. on March 5th, 2026 and close at 5:00 pm on March 9th, 2026. This is not um an opportunity to vote for a name, but rather, as the ordinance stated, it's an opportunity for public input.

[snorts]

The council will receive the input uh forms that that are sent in uh validate those against what is in the ordinance and invalidate that they are submitted uh by a resident of the city of Prowl. Uh the council will then hold a work session um to discuss the potential names. Um and then in that uh in that hopefully at the end of that work session we will leave there with a resolution uh to bring before the council for a permanent name for the venue. Uh on another note I was not able to attend [snorts] this year's black history program. Um I can guarantee you I missed it. Uh, I went to watch my son play in his uh one of his first high school varsity baseball games as a ninth grader. Um, and we got our eyes beat out, so it it might have been a little better to to be at home and and not have to witness that, but I was there to watch him play anyway. So, that's what it's about. [snorts] Um, all right. The next regularly scheduled council meeting is Tuesday, March 17th, 2026 at 6 PM. [snorts] At this time, the council has a need to go into executive session to discuss matters related to preliminary ne negotiations regarding economic development matters of trade or commerce. We have a letter of approval from the city attorney for this meeting. The council will be in executive session for up to 30 minutes and then once reconvened the council will uh adjourn and there will be no other business following the executive session. [snorts] Um for this executive session will be the council city attorney u the mayor and um Amy

Amy will present the information to us. Do I hear a motion to enter into executive session? So move moved by councelor Merrick. Is there a second? Second by councelor Langley. Uh madame clerk, will you please conduct a roll call vote? Councelor Newman here. Councelor Jackson. Yes. Councelor Chambers. Councelor Merrick. Yes. Councelor Why? Yes. Councelor Langley. Yes. All right. And the time is 7:14. Quit being so trigger happy over there, Barney. [cough] [clears throat]

May I stay a minute, please? That's what I asked. Yes, ma'am. [clears throat]

How y'all doing? Absolutely.

I I think it's this room. Yeah, I think it's

okay. That sounds great. again. Don't lose that.

I write Did Jamie help me with that? Did Jamie put that? We'll get in a conversation.

Give me a call one day this week. I was little girl. Wow. Hello.

Have a good night. What is it?

Wow. Sorry.

I don't blame you, man. Tell you throw you want to throw you want to throw your check on. Hey, [cough] I know you make All right, we return from executive session and call this meeting to order at 7:49. Do I hear a motion to adjurnn? So moved. Council, is there a second? Second. Second by council Jackson. All in favor say yes. Here. And we do stand a journ.