City Council - Regular Meeting

All right, good evening, ladies and gentlemen, and welcome to the business meetings for the City of Prattville. Tonight we have three public hearings, and then we will move into our regular council agenda. Madam Clerk, will you please call the roll?

Councillor Newman?

Here.

Councillor Jackson? Here. Councillor Chambers?

Here.

Councillor Merritt? Here. Councillor Whaley?

Here.

Councillor Stritchett? Here. Councillor Langley? Here.

I have a quorum present. I call this public hearing to order. Item number one on public hearing tonight is an ordinance. It is to rezone property located inside the corporate limits along Highway 82 bypass east Doster Cut-Off and Doster Road from T1 Manufactured Housing or Home Subdivision and FAR, Forest Agriculture Recreational District, to a PUD or Planned Unit Development. Is there anyone here who wishes to speak in favor of this item?

Blake Rice, BSI. I am the petitioner for this item. And while this item did receive a positive recommendation from Planning Commission, further conversations with some of the surrounding community and city staff has resulted in what I believe are some suggestions that could improve on this project. Due to that, I would like to respectfully request that this public hearing be continued to the second August council meeting to give us time to properly make changes to this project, to bring back before you what I believe would be an improved project, including modification of the phasing of the traffic study and infrastructure improvements, some other off-site infrastructure improvements that, after further discussion, we believe is necessary in the area, as well as removal of the multifamily portion of this project and replacement with detached single-family residential homes. Thank you.

All right. Andrew, just for clarification, as far as the, if there are changes, will those need to go back? I know they'll go back through the planning department itself. Will they go back to planning commission? No.

So not necessarily, but if, and I understand what Mr. Rice has requested, there would be an opportunity for those public comments at the dispositional pace where it's going to be voted on. Of course, it's within the purview of the council. You can choose to continue this public hearing, but it will have to be re-advertised in accordance with the law.

All right. Are there any comments from counselors as related to a continuance of the public hearing or?

I believe he requested the second meeting. Is that correct? In August? Okay. I'm sorry. What was that? Right, second. The second council meeting. Yes, and so if you need a motion for that, I'm happy to do so.

Right, right, to hold it. We would actually vote on that when it is properly before us.

Okay, understood.

All right, so is there anyone else who wishes to speak in favor of this ordinance that we're having this public hearing on? All right, not seeing anybody. Is there anyone who wishes to speak in opposition of this item? All right, hearing none. So, Andrew, just for clarification, the public hearing will close. There will be an opportunity for the public to speak during the regular comment period?

Okay. That's correct. Yes, if the measure itself is moved to the next meeting, then of course that will be an item on the agenda where the public can present a comment on that matter. Okay.

All right, so with that being, and there being no further discussion, then this public hearing is closed. Item number two for public hearing is an ordinance to rezone property located inside the corporate limits at 123 Pickett Street from R3 Single Family Residential District to T1 Manufactured Home Subdivision District. Is there anyone here who wishes to speak in favor of this item? All right, not seeing any. Is there anyone here who wishes to speak in opposition of this item? All right, not seeing anyone, this public hearing is closed. Item number three is a public hearing for an ordinance to rezone property located inside the corporate limits at 925 Pigler Street from R3 Single Family Residential District to T1 Manufactured Home Subdivision District. Is there anyone here who wishes to speak in favor of this item? Not seeing anyone, is there anyone who wishes to speak in opposition of this item? And not seeing anyone again, the public hearing from this item is closed. All right, you are now invited to join us for the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag, followed by an invocation that will be given by myself.

I pledge allegiance 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.

Bow with me, please. Heavenly Father, God, we come before you as humbly as we know how today. But, Father, just thanking you for the blessings. God, thanking you for the continued reign that we've had. And, Father, thanking you just for refreshment that it brings us. God, just thanking you for the blessings that you continue to bestow upon us in our lives. Father, we just ask that as we go into this business meeting now, Lord, that you guide our conversations. Lord, that you keep your hand over our hearts, and God, that you help us to discuss the business of this city and to do so in a nature that would bring honor and be pleasing to you. God, we just pray that if there are those who can't be here for reasons of sickness or other reasons, God, we pray that, Lord, we just lift them up to you, God, and lift those who are in need of you. God, we just thank you for, again, for blessing us, and we pray all this in the name of Christ. Amen. All right, Madam Clerk, will you please call the roll?

Councilor Merritt. Excuse me. Here. Councilor Newman.

Here.

Councilor Jackson.

Here.

Councilor Chambers. Here. Councilor Merritt. Here. Councilor Whaley.

Here.

Councilor Stritchett. Here. Councilor Langley. Here.

All right. Having a quorum present, I do call the meeting to order. The character trait of this month is cooperation, understanding others so I can effectively work with them. All right, this time we will go into approval of our minutes. You should have received those prior to this meeting. They are for the public hearing and city council meeting both dated June 16th, 2026, as well as our work session that occurred on June 22nd, 2026. At this time, the chair will entertain a motion to approve these minutes. Moved by Councilor Jackson. Do we have a second?

Second.

Second by Councilor Chambers. All in favor of approving the minutes, please signify by raising your right hand. And these minutes have been approved unanimously. All right. At this point, Mr. Mayor, you have a... Yes, sir.

As he comes up, as I think we all know, Mr. Gardner has been serving on the Planning Commission for many, many years. I believe the story he tells me is my father actually was able and enticed him to get on there, and I believe I was, was it 89 or so when you first got on? He was, did I say 89? Might have been Odin. He was 89. 1989, I don't know. And for the record, he did give me, notice of uh him resigning and we immediately started trying to order a gavel to represent him in his service to the to uh to the city to the planning commission and um well supply chains do get in the way we had a gavel plan with some documentation on it and tonight i stand here without a gavel but i am very much proud to hand him a coin from the city and hopefully you would accept that and we want to recognize you for all your dedication to this community. And we know behind every good man is a great woman. So I'm glad you brought your wife here because you have made Prattville better one project at a time, working with the various planning directors, planning commission members, especially the ones that are elected, like the mayor and like the council. So you've seen a lot, done a lot, and we most certainly appreciate that. And I know that you have a new chapter in your life that you get ready to open up and uh... wish you godspeed on that but again thank you for your service to the city of powell uh... thank you mister mayor but uh... i'd like to leave something with you if it's all right

It has been a true honor and privilege to serve the city of Prattville in the Prattville Planning Commission for the combined 37 years, including my time as vice chairman and chairman. I am sincerely grateful to the mayor's office for the opportunity to trust and support throughout my years of service. Thank you for allowing me to contribute to the growth and development of our community, I would always cherish the relationship, experience, and accomplishment we achieved together in service to the citizens of Prattville. And thank you all. Thank you very much. Then we, I guess we're gonna do it right? I don't have no friends, I think.

No, stand, stand, stand.

Hey, let's move back over here. They're moving over here. We're gonna move going back.

We're going to start a new city called Reuben City with all my friends.

That's right. All right.

Ready? One, two, three.

Thank you.

How you doing? It's good to know that volunteerism and dedication to your community is still alive and well here in Praval. And Mr. President, if I might continue that special point of privilege and ask Councilman Chambers to come down and also some of our high schoolers, if they will come up at this time. What we have here before us tonight is the Prattville High School media program and an accommodation to Mr. Legge and the students who participated in the skilled USA Nationals. Mr. Chambers?

Well, first of all, I'd like to congratulate you guys. They won, what, sectionals, the state, and took us all the way to nationals. So if we could get a nice round of applause. Thank you. That's what we call Prattville pride. So thank you, guys. I know you've got some cool news to share, maybe, if you would like to, after I read this commendation for you. But real quickly, it says, whereas Prattville High School is home to an exceptional media broadcast and film program led by Mr. Braden Legg, whose leadership and commitment to student success have fostered a culture of excellence, creativity, and professionalism. And whereas the Preble High School Media Program includes a career tech student organization affiliated with SkillsUSA, a nationally recognized organization that prepares students to become skilled professionals, effective leaders, and responsible members of the workforce through career and technical education, And whereas during the 25-26 school year, students in the Prattville High School Media Program demonstrated extraordinary talent, dedication, and perseverance by earning top honors at the district and state levels, qualifying them to advance to the 2026 SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference in Atlanta, Georgia. whereas these outstanding students represented praville high school the city of praville and the state of alabama with distinction on the national stage exemplifying excellence in career and technical education and serving as admirable ambassadors for their school and community now therefore He, Bill Gillespie, Jr., mayor of the city of Praval, do hereby commend the students in the Praval High School Media Program in Praval, Alabama, for their hard work and determination that led to their remarkable accomplishments. Another round of applause, please. All right, if I may present this to you.

Do you have any words you'd like to share?

Maybe some recent accomplishments? Anybody like to say? Sure.

I just want to say thank you to everyone who has supported us in this program. We definitely would have not been able to make it to nationals without everyone and their support. This program has been such a positive light in my life. I've made so many good friends. And you can really tell how much Mr. Legg appreciates his students. He cherishes every person, every student that walks into his classroom. And you can tell he wants to see them succeed not only on an educational level, but on a personal level, because He's amazing. Thank you.

Sorry, I'm going to say something, too. My friend just stole all my words, pretty much. But I really want to just piggyback off of what she said. I have been in this program for about three years now. I just graduated, and so did she. And I was the former president. And I have never seen someone have so much drive to teach everyone. It doesn't matter what rank you are and how you feel like you rank yourself. It doesn't matter. Mr. Legg was always there to help people and to always encourage them to take the initiative and always do something. And it's such a blessing to even make it to districts. And by gosh, I was over the moon when we made it to state. And here I am now talking to a room full of people. commemorating our move to nationals. And it is just such an amazing honor to be recognized at Atlanta on those beautiful days. And it was just such an amazing journey, no matter the outcome. It was really amazing.

Thank you for those kind words, trying to hold back tears. You know, they know I'm a crier, all right? So I want to share some very recent news. At least three of you guys were part of this project, but many have heard of the Letsey Foundation. Well, they had a scholarship program, and we won first place and got $4,300 for our class. So thank you, students, very much.

Well, I must say that does not make you hometown proud.

I don't know what does. So, again, thank you.

Can I just say one other thing? My buddy over here for many years, Stacy Mills, is one proud man, and I can tell. So I just want to acknowledge him and all that he has done as well for Prattville and this program. Thank you, buddy.

All right, thank you. At this time, we will welcome any comments from persons present regarding items that are on tonight's agenda. Well, if anyone who wishes to speak on items on tonight's agenda, please line up here in the middle aisle. We will ask you to sign in with the clerk, and then you will be given an opportunity to speak. Is there anyone who would like to speak on items on tonight's agenda? Not seeing any, Mr. Mayor, do you have a report?

Mr. President, due to the significance of the business before us tonight, particularly the consideration of the class and compensation study, I will not be presenting a mayor's report at this time.

Okay. Are there any counselors who have any questions for the mayor?

I have a few. Just a follow-up that I wanted to ask about. Hold on. I wanted to, we talked a lot about four months ago about the library contract, and I wanted to see if that has been signed yet.

It has not been brought back before me signed.

Okay. Do you know what we're waiting on with that?

The library has the contract, so I have not been in communication with them about it.

Okay. What about a contract for the Lyric manager? Do we have a contract for that signed yet?

There is no contract.

And one has not been created at this point?

I haven't seen one. There might be one, but there's been a little changing of the guard when one staffer has moved to another position in government. But I am monitoring that very, very closely and we are looking at that.

So is it, Is it customary, I know that whenever the budget is presented, that these contracts are typically presented with the budget. So is it customary that, and I'm asking all of you guys too, because I don't know, is it customary that we get these contracts signed prior to the fiscal year starting October 1? Because now we're in July, and there are There's two that's not signed yet. So I'm just curious, what is the protocol for something like that to ensure that we have these contracts and we get them signed?

Well, there's multitude of contracts. So I need to be very specific. I guess the ones you're talking about are like community initiatives. And if I'm missing, if I'm off base, please let me know. But community initiatives are one type of contracts. And then, like I mentioned to you in one email with Hope Hicks, our H.R., attorney. There is no contract for her. I wish you would find time to be able to meet with her because she is a wealth of knowledge and has been very good to the city and how she's been able to inform and troubleshoot and help the issues that she's brought in to work on. She's been a very good professional in that area. So you have a multitude of contracts.

I'm sorry, I'm referring more to...

When it comes to bond issues, then that's a whole different scenario.

I guess I'm referring more to the entities that we give money to on a yearly basis and we vote on the budget for the new fiscal year, the contracts that accompany those.

Community initiatives. Now, with the library, there never has been one, just like with the airport. There's never been one because they are basically an arm of the city. Now, there are some other ones.

But we do have one now, though. It just hasn't been signed with the library yet. We've created one as a council.

And I believe the way I remember the resolution, y'all approved for him to craft one, but then y'all will come back before y'all to approve that contract.

I'm sorry, I don't remember it that way. I remember that we approved it to be turned over to you to then have it signed by you with the library.

The way it was written was that y'all approved the city attorney to craft one, and then y'all will then have to approve that because it says to be approved by the council. And so for the council to approve it, you have to be in session.

Andrew do you have that specific wording.

While he looks that up let me ask you this. We talked a lot about five weeks ago or so about code enforcement and you and I had talked about, you had invited me to a meeting that I was unable to attend. I wanted to see if there was an update on some changes that you guys had talked about potentially making with our code enforcement policies and what was going on with that.

We have made some changes. I'll be glad to gather all that information and sit down with you.

Okay. The last thing that I had a question about, and this might be, Wade, something that you can weigh in on. In regards to the sanitation discussion tonight, when we met down at the Cooters Pond area yesterday, and had our sanitation meeting, we talked at length about creating a marketing campaign of sorts to educate our citizens so that they were aware of why we were asking to do this to raise their fees for sanitation if you were in that meeting then obviously you understand that the prices have increased and everything has increased over the last few years but we talked as a group of it being extremely important to pass that information along to our citizens through some type of campaign and Dawn you and I kind of talked about that while we were sitting there So I didn't know if we were still planning on doing that. I know that there's a lot of talk and a lot of questions, and I think that would be extremely beneficial to our citizens if we helped make them aware of why we are making this motion and this agenda item in order to do that. i don't know if you were involved in that deal uh... i can't remember i can say uh... soon

That has been put together by the city webmaster and Dawn has worked on that as well. That information is ready to go out. They were waiting on basically us to tell them to put it out. We had that conversation today. So what we're doing tonight is we're, so the first time really the public saw the ordinance proposal was when the agenda was posted. And then, so following our normal protocol, I had no intention tonight to ask for suspension of the rules. Therefore, we would have an entire two-week period after tonight for that campaign of information to go out to the public and then for the public to see that as well as the ordinance that is introduced formally. and then there will be a discussion period at the next council meeting before the ordinance is properly before us and considered.

Great. I love that. Thank you.

Yeah, Mike, I believe it's my understanding that that may go out as early as tomorrow.

yet it's it's ready they were just kind of week we we had had a discussion about it uh... without we could have put it out but without uh... in in my opinion without us having put this ordinance officially out We wanted to follow the correct steps, put it out or introduce it tonight, and then put all the information out to the public, give them an opportunity to see that along with the ordinance as it was introduced, and then a comment portion before next meeting when we would actually have this properly before us so that we could discuss it and vote on it at that time.

I did want to chime in just one little thing. If we even step back further, I mean, there was a rate study that was commissioned by the council months ago for us to do a study for a potential rate increase that was done here in the chambers. And then we had a sanitation meeting, which we looked at there. rate uh... study that they completed and that was done at the sanitation committee meeting so that was two public meetings that it was discussed in and then there was the finance committee where the rate study was then put in front of the finance committee for them to make a decision on and now it's here so there's been many steps in the open that haven't been you know that people have been following we've been you know discussing this for quite a while now but right as soon as the ordinance was read in i assume we would be marketing, the change, the change happened.

Correct. All right. Andrew, did you find the wording on that contract?

I did, uh, Mr. President and here's the wording. Whereas funding for the Otago Prattville public library is budgeted annually by the city of Prattville. And whereas the library serves the public good and is desirable for the health safety and welfare of the citizens of Prattville. and whereas a contract for services has been requested to administer and support the allocation of funds, and whereas the city attorney will draft a contract for approval by the city council to satisfy said request. Now, therefore, be it resolved the city council of the city of Prattville that the mayor is hereby authorized to sign a contract for services with the Ataka Prattville Public Library as allocated in the FY 2025-2026 budget.

Okay. So for clarification purposes on that as well, you did draft a contract.

Yes, that's correct. And as you all know, It's been back and forth with several drafts and revisions, and I agree with the mayor, the last that I've heard, it's been transmitted to the library for feedback. Correct. I haven't received it back yet.

Yes, it was sent to the library. So we need to request the contract back from the library or request any, and then we would need to bring it back before us to approve the contract because of the way that's written?

That's the way I interpret it, because at this time this was passed, I had not drafted the contract. It says the city attorney will draft a contract for approval by the city council.

Right.

So can I chime in on this, too?

Sure. Because I was under the impression that we had arrived at our contract that we were satisfied with, and we had sent that to the library, and the library board was satisfied with that. with that as well and we're signing it and getting it back to us that's my impression from speaking with the library board chairman and i'll call him tomorrow to confirm that as well but i'm surprised we don't have that back and signed to be honest with you so so we just need to do some follow-up on that okay all right we can follow up on that all right at this time we'll move into reports from council on special committees counselor newman i have nothing

Councilor Jackson? No, sir. Councilor Chambers? No, sir. Councilor Merritt? No, sir. Councilor Stritchick? No. Councilor Langley? No.

We did have a street committee meeting. It was on the 13th. We started at 4.30. I don't know exactly when we ended, but it was a very informative meeting. Paxton joined us, and we got an update on several different projects going on within the city, and our goal is to have another meeting prior to the presentation of the budget.

Okay. And then I do not have any All right, at this time, we will receive a report on the status of the city finances from our finance director, Daniel Oakley. Yes, sir.

So for the general fund revenue, month of June, we received $47,260,698 for the fiscal year to date. And this represents a 3.02% increase over the same period in the prior year. Next page is the tax breakdown comparison, and on the tax side, we were up 4.07% compared to the previous June. The next three pages show the general fund expenses broken down by department, and with three-fourths of the fiscal year complete, we have spent 77.65% of the budgeted expenditures in the general fund. Next page is the wastewater enterprise fund income statement. And the wastewater fund generated an income from operations of $164,778 for June. Operating expenses are coming in around 66%. And overall expenses are at 70% with both being under budget. The next page is the Sanitation Enterprise Fund Income Statement, and the Sanitation Fund generated a net income of $43,339 for the month, and overall expenses remain under budget at roughly 69% for this fund. Next page is the judicial special revenue fund income statements. The judicial fund generated in that income of $44,476 for June, and expenses continue to come in while under budget at 58%. Next page is the gas tax special revenue fund income statement, and this fund is presented quarterly to you guys, so there's three months of data on here. Even with the increases in gas prices, the revenue coming in from gas tax revenue remains pretty strong. In May, you'll see I did move funds budgeted. They were budgeted in fiscal year 25 to cover the local paving project phase two portion. The expenses this quarter relate to the 4th Street and Sheila Boulevard MPO paving projects, as well as the College Heights CDBG paving project. Next page is the capital projects fund income statement. It shows that we spent roughly $10.1 million on projects and related debt service through the first three-fourths of the year. Primary projects this quarter were the engineering building addition, the downtown ADA project, which was sidewalks, Court Street parking and sidewalks, and the Vista Point park improvements. Next page is the group health fund income statement. And this fund has an accumulated net loss of $1,258,748 for the year. Cash balance at the end of June was roughly $493,000 However, the general fund has had to supplement the group health fund to the tune of $1,650,000 for this fiscal year to date. They're probably going to finish out the year having to supplement it some more. And as part of the budget process, we're looking at changes that will help fund this, our group health account, next year a little bit better. It's hard to predict. how many large instances or issues that you have. And we had a handful of large ones so far this year. So we're gonna factor that into the budget process too. Next page is the Parks and Recreation Income Report. And it shows we've collected 76.3% of our budgeted Parks and Rec income as of the end of the month. And this totals to $645,878. Next page is the bank balances report and the total of all bank balances citywide at the end of June was $47,649,244. last page of your packets the AP and debt balance report and the total outstanding AP and debt balance citywide at the end of the month was $64,707,045 while the city's non-enterprise fund debt was $34,931,295. All right. Thank you. Are there any questions for Mr. Klee? Thank you. Thank you.

All right, tonight we have the opportunity to create a consent agenda. There are three items that we might consider on this agenda, and they are, number one is a resolution to set a public hearing to declare the abundance of overgrown grass and weeds at 105 New Moon Court, 413 Parkwood Drive, 126 Carver Street, and 819 Wilberforce Avenue to be unsafe and a public nuisance and order its abatement pursuant to Chapter 46, City of Prattville Code of Ordinances. Item number two is a resolution to authorize the city attorney to affix the cost for the removal of garbage and rubbish at 309 Angela Drive. And item number three is a resolution to authorize the city attorney to file weed liens on certain properties. Do I hear a motion to create a consent agenda? Move by Councilor Jackson, is there a second?

Second.

Second by Councilor Merrick. All in favor of creating a consent agenda, please signify by raising your right hand. Okay, and this consent agenda is created. The consent agenda is now before us. Do I hear a motion to adopt the consent agenda? So moved. Move by Councilor Jackson, is there a second?

Second.

Second by Councilor Chambers. Is there any discussion on the consent agenda? Not hearing any. All in favor of adopting the consent agenda, please signify by raising your right hand. And the consent agenda has been adopted unanimously. All right, at this time we'll move into our regular agenda. Item number one on our agenda tonight is an ordinance to rezone property located inside the corporate limits along Highway 82, Bypass East, Doster Cutoff, and Doster Road from T1, Manufactured Home Subdivision District, and FAR, Forest Agriculture Recreational District, to a PUD, Planned Unit Development. This ordinance was introduced and held at the 6-16-26 meeting and is now properly before us. Is there any discussion on this item? yes sir i'd like to make a motion to uh... hold this to the eight eighteen meeting as requested all right we do have a motion uh... to hold this until eighteen is there a second second second by a counselor jackson uh... all in favor of the motion to All in favor of the motion to hold this until 8-18, please signify by raising your right hand. All right. And the motion to hold is adopted unanimously. So, Andrew, just for clarification purposes, will we need to set...

another public hearing on that date now we won't because what this has done is taken the measure itself and postponed it to that meeting of course there will be opportunity for public comment on that measure as it will still be on the agenda uh... so individuals from the public can comment have discussion with the council on that day and and my next question was if there is

Changes to the master plan, would that need to go back to the planning commission?

It's my understanding that the council can make some changes and requirements before voting on that, but that would be in the purview of the council before that measure is approved.

Okay. Mr. Adams, do you mind? Yeah. I just want to make sure, I realize that there can be minor changes made to the plan, but I just want to make sure that if there are significant changes to be made, and you've had discussions with the petitioner, so if there are significant changes that are made to it, would it need to then go back to the planning commission before coming back to us?

The master plan, yes, if there are significant changes.

Okay. But minor changes could be made and then they could be discussed by the council before it's heard. Okay. Yes. Okay. Just wanted to make sure. Thank you.

I do have another question. What, what deems minor versus not minor when you, when we're talking about this, just.

Well, what was mentioned was they may no longer be including the multifamily. To me that is potentially a major change because that is going to change obviously your density and potentially your traffic. So to me that may be a major change if it's things like infrastructure and street layout and things like that, that may not be so much of a major change. But anything that actually affected the density, the number of units, the traffic, I would say potentially could be a major change, even if they're for the better or the improvement of the plan.

Okay. So once you've had those meetings and the scope of the changes that are requested, you would report that back to us with opinions on whether it should go back to planning or if it would be something that would be available to be changed before we were to hear it.

Yes.

Okay. Okay. All right. Thank you.

Any other questions about that?

Okay. All right. Second item on the, um, agenda is an ordinance to rezone property located inside the corporate limits at one, two, three picket street from our three single family residential district to T one manufactured home subdivision. Uh, this ordinance was introduced and held at the six 1626 meeting and is now properly before us. Is there any discussion on this item?

Yes, sir. If Mr. Adams would please join me. I just want to make sure everybody understands.

If you could tell everybody about why there was a disapproval, the reasoning behind that, and how important that is.

The main reason for the disapproval was, this is an example of spot zoning. Spot zoning is technically not illegal, but it can be legally challenged. And what spot zoning is, it refers to singling out a small parcel of land for a use that's different from the uses in the surrounding area. So in this particular case, they wanted to rezone one lot to T1 to put a mobile home onto it, which would then be completely different from the surrounding uses. One of the reasons we obviously don't do that is because that then opens the door for anyone to come in and choose any particular piece of property in the city and request a rezoning. Now that doesn't mean that spot zoning can't be done, however, It must be in line with the comprehensive plan. Generally, there has to be a public benefit associated with it. So in other words, if you rezone land for a hospital or even if you rezone land for new construction in a blighted area, but it must comply with the comprehensive plan. And what we found was this request was not consistent with the comprehensive plan. The benefit would be purely for the owner. and this was something that the Planning Commission recommended denial on. Okay, thank you.

And just, I guess, for the record, the next item is also in the same?

Yes, it's just around the corner from this one. It's the same request.

Okay, is there any further discussion or questions?

I did just want to point out again I asked the council to look over the video for the Planning Commission when these two came up. We've had several of these come up in the Planning Commission in the last couple of Planning Commission meetings and I want to make sure that everybody was aware of the spot zoning issues that could come up. It basically would undermine our zoning process if we were allowed to spot zoning and open us up for potential litigation if we weren't consistent with it which would be very difficult to do so. I just wanted to reiterate what Councilor Chambers brought out. All right.

Is there any further discussion on this item? Not hearing any, all in favor of this ordinance, please signify by raising your right hand. Any opposed, like sign? All right. And any abstentions? None. All right, item number three on tonight's agenda is an ordinance to rezone property located inside the corporate limits at 925 Pigler Street from R3, single-family residential district, 2T1, manufactured home subdivision district. This ordinance was introduced and held from the 6-16-26 meeting and is now properly before us. Is there any discussion on this item?

This falls under the same spot zone requirement like was pointed out previously.

Okay. Is there any further discussion? All right, not hearing any, all in favor of this ordinance, please signify by raising your right hand. Any opposed, like sign. And any abstention. And this ordinance does fail. All right, item number four is an ordinance to amend the City of Prattville Code of Ordinances, Chapter 66, Utilities, Article 4, Solid Waste Division 1, 2, 3, and 4. Councilor Newman, will you introduce this ordinance by title only, please?

Yes, sir. The ordinance to amend the City of Prattville Code of Ordinances, Chapter 66, Utilities, Article 4, Solid Waste Divisions 1, 2, 3, and 4.

Thank you. So moved.

So moved.

We have a motion. Is there a second? Second. Second by Councilor Jackson. As a point of order, this ordinance will be held until our August the 4th, 2026 meeting. Item number five is an ordinance to amend the City of Prattville Code of Ordinances, Chapter 66, Utilities, Article 3, Sewers and Sewers Disposal, Division 10, Charges and Fees. Councilor Strzicek, will you introduce this ordinance by title only?

To amend the City of Prattville Code of Ordinances.

To amend the City Appropriate Code and Ordinances, Chapter 66, Utilities, Article 3, Sewers and Sewage Disposal, Division 10, Chargers and Fees. So moved.

All right. We have a motion. Is there a second? Second. Second by Councilor Merrick. As a point of order, this ordinance will be held until our August 4, 2026 meeting. Item number six is a resolution to adopt an updated position classification and compensation plan for employees of the city of Prattville. Councillor Chambers, will you introduce this resolution, please?

Yes, sir. Whereas the last comprehensive review of the city of Prattville classification and compensation plan for employees was conducted in 2018 and was amended in 2023. And whereas in resolution book, 2026, page 57 on February 17th, 2026, the city council of the city of Prattville authorized the mayor to enter into a contract with Condor and associates. incorporated to conduct an updated comprehensive classification and compensation study. And whereas the goal of this study was to update the city's pay plan to continue to provide a highly competitive pay structure to attract and retain top talent to deliver high quality services to the community. Whereas using data gathered by Condre and Associates incorporated, all job descriptions have been revised and the revisions have been reviewed by the city's human resources director and department heads. And whereas using data gathered by Condre and Associates Incorporated, including responses from other public sector employers, a market rate for city positions has been identified. And whereas Condre and Associates Incorporated presented three separate implementation options for the city council to consider. and whereas the city council has chosen to implement option b with a current market value of 102 and two and one half percent and an expected market rate of 100 percent at the time of implementation whereas the new proposal plan reflects positioning the city to continue to be a competitive employer within the market which will support the continued delivery of high quality services to the community Now, therefore, be it resolved that the City Council of the City of Prattville hereby adopt said position classification and composition plan option B with an implementation date of October 4th, 2026. So moved, Mr. President.

Thank you. We have a motion. Is there a second? Second. Second by Councilor Langley. Is there any discussion on this item?

Alright, before I vote, I'd like to make a brief statement. First, I want to be clear that I support all of our employees. I have consistently stated on the record that our police officers, firefighters should be compensated at the highest level our city can reasonably afford. They put their lives on the line every day to protect our community, and they deserve competitive pay. My questions were never about whether our police officers and firefighters deserve competitive pay. They absolutely do. My concern has always been fairness and equity across the entire workforce every employee deserves to know that the compensation plan adopted by this council was evaluated with the same level of care whether they wear a badge respond to a fire More our parks, repair our streets, maintain our sewer system, collect our trash, clean our public buildings, maintain our facilities, answer the phone, process permits, or work behind the scenes serving the citizens of Prattville. Every one of those employees plays an important role in making the city successful. That is why I requested additional information showing how this plan would impact each classification across the organization. I want to understand not only the overall cost of the plan, but also how the benefits will be distributed across the workforce so that the council could determine whether every employee was receiving fair consideration. When Council President Whaley asked members to submit questions before the vote, I submitted mine on July the 8th. and follow the process established by the council president. I am grateful that responses were provided. I appreciate Human Resources and Conjury Associates and Associates for taking the time to respond and for the work they have invested in this study. Many of my questions were answered and I'm grateful. for those responses. As elected officials, our responsibility is not simply to approve compensation plans. Our responsibility is to exercise oversight, ask thoughtful questions, and make informed decisions on behalf of both our employees and the taxpayers we represent. My vote tonight is not a reflection on how much I value any one department over another. It reflects my commitment to ensuring fairness, transparency, and equity across the entire workforce. Every employee matters, every employee contributes, and every employee deserves to know that this council carefully considered how this plan would affect them. For those reasons, I believe it is important that the remaining information be provided to the full council before implementation begins on October 4th so we can continue to ensure fairness, transparency, and equity across the entire workforce.

All right. Is there any further discussion?

All right. I can say a couple things. I just want to say I appreciate my colleagues asking thoughtful questions, asking questions in secret clarity as part of good governments, and I really appreciate that. I ask a lot of questions myself, and I don't want to discourage that. But we also have to be careful not to create scope creep for ourselves as a council. It's not our job to delve into the administrative depth that may be being sought here. We aren't the Human Resources Department, and we should be trying to manage HR details from the bench. Our scope as elected officials is high-level governance. Our job is to ensure a competitive pay plan is selected and to verify that it's fully funded. We know the scale is competitive. The finance committee has verified the numbers. The funds are budgeted. HR has already established an administrative process to handle individual placement reviews and fine tuning. And if an issue ever arises to our level through that official channel, we will address it at that time. We had a dedicated work session on this. Staff has done their due diligence. Our workforce is waiting on our decision. So I don't want to hold a citywide pay plan up. Let's fulfill our legislative role. approve the option tonight, fund it, and let our professional HR staff handle the administrative execution.

Thank you. Is there any further discussion?

All right.

Not hearing any, all in favor of this resolution, please signify by raising your right hand. Any opposed, like sign? And any abstention? This resolution is adopted unanimously. Item number seven is resolution to amend the FY2026 budget and award bid number 026-006 to Stivers Ford Lincoln Incorporated for the purchase of a 2026 or newer police utility SUVs with installation and purchase installation of fleet emergency equipment for the police department at a total cost not to exceed $717,049. Counselor Langley, will you introduce this resolution, please?

Yes, sir. whereas the police department has identified a need for the purchase and upfitting of nine patrol vehicles, one investigator vehicle, and two school resource vehicles, and whereas specifications were drafted for said vehicles, equipment, and the installation of said equipment, whereas three sealed bids were received, opened, and read aloud on July 14, 2026, at 10 a.m. in council chambers at City Hall, whereas the lowest monetary bidder was Ford of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, with a bid of $715,374, with the bid being valid for four months. and whereas section forty one sixteen fifty seven b of the code of alabama nineteen seventy five as amended states that awarding authorities in the purchase of or contract for goods or services shall give preference provided there is no sacrifice or loss in price or quality to commodities produced in alabama or sold by alabama persons firms or corporations And whereas Stivers Ford Lincoln Incorporated, an Alabama corporation, was the lowest responsible bidder located within the state of Alabama with a total bid of $717,049. And whereas the police department desires to amend the budget to purchase five patrol vehicles and two school resource vehicles from the FY 2026 budget. And whereas the remaining vehicles will be budgeted in the FY 2027 police capital outlay budget. Now, therefore, be it resolved by the City Council of the City of Prattville that the FY2026 budget is hereby amended as follows. Decrease police salaries and wages $418,802. Increase police capital outlay $418,802. Be it further resolved that the City Council hereby awards bid number zero to, sorry, to Styrofs Ford Lincoln in a total amount not to exceed $717,049. Be it further resolved that funds in an amount not to exceed $418,802 are hereby approved and appropriated from FY 2026 budget line item police slash capital outlay. So moved, Mr. President.

Thank you. We have a motion. Is there a second? Second. Second by Councilor Chambers. Is there any discussion on this item? All right. Hearing none, all in favor of this resolution, please signify by raising your right hand. And this resolution has been adopted unanimously. Item number eight is a resolution to accept improvements and maintenance of Hedgefield Subdivision Plat 1, Plat 2, Plat 3, and Plat 4. Councillor Chambers, will you introduce this resolution, please?

Yes, sir. Whereas the final subdivision plats for Hedgefield Subdivision Plat 1 and Plat 2 were recorded on August 2, 2019... whereas the final subdivision plat for hedgefield subdivision plat 3 was recorded on november 12 2020 and whereas the final subdivision plat for hedgefield subdivision platform was recorded on february 19th of 2021 and whereas the developers of subdivisions must maintain the public utilities right-to-ways and easements in the subdivision until accepted by the city council of the city of pratford And whereas the owners of said subdivision have maintained the public utilities and public improvements in the subdivision for the minimum period required by the Preble subdivision regulations and has corrected all efficiencies represented or presented, excuse me, by the city of Preble engineering department. And whereas all public utilities and public improvements in said subdivision were inspected and approved by the city of Preble engineering planning and development. and public works departments. Now therefore, be it resolved by the City Council of the City of Prattville that all public utilities and public improvements in Hedgefield Subdivision Plat 1, Plat 2, Plat 3, and Plat 4 are hereby accepted by the City of Prattville for permanent maintenance. So moved, Mr. President.

Thank you. We have a motion. Is there a second? Second. Second by Councilor Langley. Is there any discussion on this item? not hearing any all in favor of this resolution please signify by raising your right hand and this resolution has been adopted unanimously Item number nine is a resolution to award bid number 026-004 to Alexander Seal Coating and Striping Incorporated for the College Heights Area Roadway and Sewer Improvements CDBG project number LR-CM-PF-2 at a total cost not to exceed $501,485. Counselor Strzic, will you introduce this resolution, please?

Whereas the City of Prattville has identified a need to improve the city's sewer and road infrastructure in the College Heights area, whereas in Resolution Book 2025-A, page 194, on July 1, 2025, the City Council of the City of Prattville authorized the city to submit an application to the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs, ADECA. For program year 2025, CDBG funds are committed to $204,235 in matching funds as said project was awarded. Whereas the city was awarded said grant funds in the resolution book 2026, page 088 on March 17th, 2026, the city accepted CDBG funds from ADECA under grant number LRCMPF25002 to fund sewer and street improvements in the College Heights area. Whereas specifications were drafted for said improvements and let forbid, and whereas four sealed bids were received, open and read aloud, July 14th, 2026 at 9 a.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, whereas Alexander Seal Coating and Striping Incorporated was the lowest responsible bidder with a total bid of $501,485 for said project, whereas this is a budget expense in the gas tax fund. Now, therefore, be resolved that the City Council of the City of Pratt will hereby award bid number 026-006 to Alexander Seal Coating and Striping Incorporated. and a total amount not to exceed $501,485. Net cost to the city, $240,235 for said improvement project, and said funds are approved and appropriated for fiscal 2026 budget line item, gas tax fund, college heights paving, CDBG. 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 moved.

Thank you. We have a motion. Do we have a second? Second. say what counselor jackson is there any discussion on the side not hearing any all in favor of this resolution please signify by raising your right hand and this resolution has been adopted items item number ten resolution to me in the f what twenty twenty six budget and release funds for the purchase of one new 2023 Ford F450 4x4 cab chassis and remount of the Type 1 ambulance box through the HGAC by Purchasing Cooperative, contract number AM10-23, from AllSource Enterprises, LLC, doing business as Safe Industries at a cost not to exceed $122,900. Councilor Chambers, will you introduce this resolution, please?

Yes, sir. Uh, whereas the city of Preble fire department is down an ambulance due to a traffic accident that could adversely affect response times to call for emergencies, illnesses, or accidents. And whereas the insurance company has advised that the cab of the ambulance unit is not repairable. and whereas the lead time for new ambulances could be in excess of two years, and whereas after reviewing the paperwork, receiving estimates and lead times for replacements, it has been determined that the most financially feasible decision is to remount the ambulance box portion onto a new chassis. And whereas said chassis and remount are available through the HGAC by purchasing co-op contract number AM 10 dash 23 from all source enterprises, LLC doing business as safe industries. And it costs not to exceed $122,900. And whereas insurance proceeds of $50,642 87 cents. will be applied to the purchase of the remounted unit upon finalization of the claim. Now therefore, be it resolved by the City Council of the City of Prattville that the fiscal year 2026 budget is hereby amended as follows. Decreased fire salaries and wages by 50,000, decreased fire communications by 15,000, decreased fire equipment maintenance by 30,000, decreased fire training and development by 10,000, decreased fire grounds maintenance by 10,000, decreased fire operating EMS by $7,900, and increased fire capital outlay to $122,900. Be it further resolved that funds in an amount not to exceed $122,900 for the purchase of said chassis and remount are hereby authorized and approved to be paid to AllSource Enterprises LLC, doing business as Safe Industries, and said funds are approved and appropriated from fiscal year 2026 budget line item fire capital outlay. So moved, Mr. President.

All right. Thank you. We have a motion. Do we have a second? Second. Second by Councillor Jackson. Is there any discussion on this item? Not hearing any. All in favor of this resolution, please signify by raising your right hand. And this resolution has been adopted unanimously. Thank you. Item number 11 is a resolution to authorize the release of funds for drainage and grading improvements at the public works lot located at 530 Doster Road to David Bulger Incorporated for public works at a cost not to exceed $75,392.50. Councilor Merritt, will you introduce this resolution, please?

yes sir president has been identified for drainage and grading improvements at the public works lot located at five thirty duster road and whereas david bolger incorporated has the expertise to provide said work at a cost not to exceed seventy five thousand three hundred ninety two dollars and fifty cents whereas pursuant to Section 39-2-1 of the Code of Alabama 1975 as amended, said project is a public works project, and whereas Section 39-2-2 of the 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 budget expense in public works, Now, therefore, be it resolved by the city council, the city of Prattville, that funds in the amount not to exceed $75,392.50 are hereby authorized and approved to be paid to David Bulger Incorporated for said improvements. And said funds are hereby approved and appropriated from the fiscal year 2026 budget line item public works slash capital outlay. So moved.

We have a motion. Is there a second?

Second.

Second by Councilor Chambers. Is there any discussion on this item? Not hearing any. I did have just one question. Mr. Mayor, maybe you might be able to answer that. I know that Mr. Bulger has quite a few projects going on in the city at this time. Is there a time frame for when he'll be able to complete this project?

I don't have that in front of me, but I'll be glad to get it to you tomorrow. I do know that there were several quotes on this one, and he was the lowest of the quotes.

Right, but it's not something that needs to be done immediately, this project. We're just awarding the amount for it.

Right, and if you're referring maybe to North Highland Park, because I know he's involved with that as well, and most certainly that particular project is definitely before this one. But again, he's already gotten started because he's waiting on, my understanding, on some subcontractors to get back with him. But most certainly if they haven't started this one, then they will definitely be back out in HP.

All right, thank you. Is there any other discussion on this item? Not hearing any, all in favor of this resolution, please signify by raising your right hand. All right, and this resolution has been adopted unanimously. Item number 12 is a resolution to approve a one-time lump sum payment, city of Prattville retirees and beneficiaries of deceased retirees under the provisions of Section 2 of Act 2026-608 at a cost not to exceed $54,925. Counselor Stritchick, will you introduce this resolution, please? Yes, sir.

whereas the Alabama legislator passed act twenty twenty six dash six zero eight which provides the opportunity to grant a one-time lump sum payment to retired members and beneficiaries of deceased retirees retired prior to October first twenty twenty five and are entitled to receive monthly retirement benefits from the employees retirement system as of September 30th, 2026. And whereas the city council of the city of Prattville desires to grant eligible city of Prattville retirees this one-time lump sum payment approved by the legislator in 2026 to show appreciation for their dedication service to the city, and whereas the authorization of the one-time lump sum payment are due no later than August 31st, 2026 to pay the retirees in October of 2026. Now, therefore, it will be resolved by the City Council of the City of Prattville that the fiscal budget is hereby amended as follows. Increased general fund business license revenue, $54,925. Increased human resource retirement retiree lump sum $54,925. Be it further resolved that the city elects to come under the provisions of Section 2 of Act 608 of the regular session of the 2026 legislature and agrees to provide all funds necessary to the employees. The retirement system to cover the cost of the one-time lump sum payment is provided for by said act and those eligible retirees, beneficiaries of the deceased retirees of the city. Be it further resolved that the City agree to provide all funds necessary to the employee's retirement system to cover the cost of the one-time lump sum payments as provided by the said Act for those eligible. be it further resolved that the funds in the amount estimated $54,925 for a one-time lump sum payment is hereby authorized and approved to be paid to the employees' retirement system of Alabama and said funds are approved and appropriate from fiscal 2026 budget line item, human resource retirement lump sum. So moved.

All right, thank you. We have a motion. Do we have a second? Second. Second by Councilor Merritt. Is there any discussion on this item?

I do have a question. Daniel, if I can put you on the spot, how many retirees do we have that will be involved in this? I'd have to look.

We actually disclosed that in our financial statements, so I'd have to look, and I don't have a copy in front of me. Do you have any idea offhand? 176. 176, okay.

To be exact, yes.

Thank you. Is there any further discussion on this item?

I like how Lisa pulled him out there, so thank you, Lisa.

I would like, just for clarification, to state that I will abstain from voting on this item as I am a retiree of the city and a member of the Retirement Systems of Alabama and will receive personal benefit from this if passed. Just didn't want to give any indication of any wrongdoing. All right, all in favor of this resolution, please signify by raising your right hand. Any opposed, like sign, and any abstention. And this resolution has been adopted. Thank you. Item number 13. is a resolution to authorize the release of funds for window renovation project at City Hall to Tri-County Glass and Home Repairs LLC at a cost not to exceed $34,000. Councillor Jackson, will you introduce this resolution, please?

Whereas a need has been identified to replace the windows at City Hall, and whereas Tri-County Glass and Home Repairs LLC has the expertise to provide said renovations at a cost not to exceed $34,000, and whereas pursuant to Section 39.2.1 of the Code of Alabama 1975 as amended, said renovations are a public works project, and whereas Section Thirty-nine two dash two of the code of Alabama nineteen seventy-five is amended allows contract for public works projects under one hundred thousand dollars to be let without bidding and whereas this is a budget expense and facilities maintenance. Now therefore be it resolved by the city council of the city of Prattville that the funds in amount not to exceed thirty-four thousand dollars are hereby authorized and approved to be paid to Tri-County Glass and Home Repairs, LLC, for said renovations and said funds are approved and appropriated from the fiscal year 2026 budget line item, facilities maintenance capital outlay, be it further resolved that the mayors hereby authorize and execute any and all documents necessary to carry out the intent of this resolution. So moved.

Thank you for your motion. Do we have a second? Second. Second by Councilor Langley. Is there any discussion on this item? is tri-county i was looking it up uh... yes thank you that's what i was looking for perfect good deals are any further discussion on this item all right now here in the all-in favors resolution please signify by raising your right hand and this resolution has been adopted unanimously item number fourteen his resolution to authorize the city attorney to fix the cost for the removal of garbage and rubbish at 225 Stewart Street. Councilor Chambers, will you introduce this resolution, please?

Yes, sir. Whereas Section 65-122, Code of Alabama 1975, as amended, permits the City Council of the City of Prattville to declare a public nuisance and have the violation resolved. And whereas in Resolution Book 2025B, page 330, on November 18, 2025, the City Council declared the garbage and rubbish at 225, steward street continued to be a public nuisance and whereas the otago county tax records list the property owners as herring lori elna and herring richard g with an address of 225 stewart street prattville alabama 36067 to parcel number 1904 21005024.000 and whereas compliance with section 4631 city of prattville code of ordinances the code enforcement officer gave written notice to the owners of said property on october 14 2025 to correct remedy or remove the conditions of garbage and rubbish within 10 days and whereas The owners of said property failed and or refused to correct remedy or removes said nuisance conditions by the expiration of said notice and res section 46 dash 32 of the city of travel code of ordinances authorizes the city to do such work to make sure, uh, make such improvements that are necessary to correct remedy or remove such condition pay therefore and charge the expenses incurred to the owners of such property to the fullest extent authorized by law. Now, therefore, be it resolved by the City Council of the City of Prattville that the total amount of $760.24, including legal expenses for the removal of garbage and rubbish at 225 Stewart Street is accurate and shall be established as a lien against the property. Be it further resolved that the City Attorney is authorized to file any actions necessary to recover cost said removed. So moved.

All right. We have a motion. Is there a second? Second. Second by Councilor Jackson. Is there any discussion on this item?

I would just like to quickly say that in talking with the homeowner, I know that there is some question. The city has taken a photo of where the city has taped a notification onto their front door. and we do have documentation of that. The homeowner has shared with me that she did not get such documentation and so that was part of what I was trying to talk about with the code enforcement. My understanding in talking previously is that It's being tossed around that no matter if it is a dilapidated home or a weeded lot of some sort, at least, that there may be a certified mail situation where our citizens have to sign for that. And so I'm very interested in that due to this is in my district and this citizen does dispute that she received that. So I just wanted to throw that out there that that is one reason I'm very interested in the changes that our code enforcement is looking to make.

Okay. Any further discussion on this item?

I just want to echo, I think I want to have a little bit, maybe we should put a work session or something together and talk about code enforcement stuff because I do have a few questions sometimes in and around mail delivery like Councilor Lally brought up or sometimes some of the areas that the photos are taken. So I just want to make sure we're all on the same sheet of music. So maybe if we can think about getting a work session together and we can have code enforcement come and talk with us and we can kind of work some of this out so we're all on the same page. Most of these are straight out. I mean, the backup documents show major issues, but there are some that I want to make sure we're wired tight on and I'd like to... Make sure we're straight. So I kind of echo what Councilor Lange is saying.

Okay. Any further discussion? All right. Not hearing any. All in favor of this resolution, please signify by raising your right hand. Any opposed, like sign. And any abstain. All right. This resolution has been adopted. All right, this concludes our regular agenda. The council will welcome at this time. Any comments from persons present? We'll have anyone who wishes to speak line up in the middle aisle. You'll be called to come over to the clerk to print your name and address, and you'll have up to five minutes to address the council. Is there anyone who wishes to address the council on any item? Chief Thompson?

Mark Thompson, Chief of Police, 201 Genshop Hill Road. As far as code enforcement, y'all wanted the city cleaned up. That's what we've been doing. We, and it sounds like we're picking on certain people where if you looked at your packets, one of the ones we enforced lately was a police officer. His car was parked in the driveway. The picture was taken and forwarded to y'all. He has paid for that dearly. So I just want to make sure that we're enforcing the codes equally across the city. Thank y'all. Y'all got anything else?

Any questions for Chief?

Thank you, Chief.

I noticed that in the packet, and I appreciate you coming and saying that. I don't feel that there's any targeting at all. In my comment, I was just mentioning that my constituent says that she did not receive the letter.

Yeah, there's a lot of that going around. As long as I'm chief, there'll be no targeting. Thank you all. Thank you, Chief.

All right. Is there anybody else who would like to address the council on any issue? Not seeing one at this time, we'll move into closing comments. Mr. Mayor?

Yes, sir. Thank you, and thank you for your hard work tonight. I know the employees appreciate that, and staff will now be able to move forward pulling the final information we need to provide the upcoming proposed budget to this body, and look forward to working with you all on that. And again, I'll ask that y'all reach out as chairs to your department head, whichever chair you chair, and get any additional information, set up committee meetings, whatever it might happen to be. But I guess as a PSA, we do have some asphalt that has been laid on Fairview Avenue and on McQueen Smith at J Street. There's some temporary striping that is down on that asphalt, so I still ask everyone to be very cautious in that area, but there is progress in Praval. Thank you.

Thank you. Councillor Newman?

Sure. I'd like to say a couple of things. Firstly, I don't believe there's any targeting by Praval Police Department whatsoever, so I want to make sure I clarify that. My comments are more around some of the things that we have to sometimes mitigate or adjudicate a decision, and If there is a dispute from a resident around whether or not they got a letter, I don't know if there's another way we can send these things a second time. These are just questions that I have. I wanna make sure I'm on the same page with, so when we're making decisions, I can make them accurately, that's all. I absolutely do not have a problem with code enforcement or what they're doing. I just wanna make sure when I look at the pictures and the backup documents that I understand what I'm seeing versus what they're saying. So I'd like to just have a work session so we can talk it over a little bit and be on the same page. That's the first thing the second thing is the EDAA conference that we went to I enjoyed it very much I thought it was a very good conference. We learned a lot of things there I was very impressed to have our own economic developer give a presentation around one of our projects. I thought it was a great Opportunity for us to meet and see other cities and how they do things and there was a lot of things that I I learned there being a freshman and My first time, you know, I wanted to go in and see what I could see about it And it was a good cop a good conference I'm glad it went I also want to say to my colleagues here, I couldn't ask for a better group of people to work with. I know we don't always agree on things, and we definitely have different personalities around things, but there's definitely one thing I want to make sure I say about each one of you is I know you love this city and you're working really hard to do the best you can with it, and I appreciate that. It's tougher than what you think to be up here doing this, and I've learned that in my first year. So I really have a lot of respect for Marcus and Robert and even Tommy for being up here a couple iterations now. So I just want to make sure I put that out publicly. John as well. the sanitation committee I have sent an email out to everybody late this afternoon with some specifics around it to show some rate increases if you'd look at that if you got any questions about it let me know if there's any constituents in district one that have any questions if there's anything that you have a question about at any time please reach out to me and call me my cell phone number is public my email is out there I've got three or four you can call me anytime you want to you can text me I will answer your question You can call me on a Saturday. You can call me on a Sunday. I don't care when you call me. I signed up to do the job. I would rather give you the information for me personally than you pick it up from a source that may not be reputable or may not necessarily have all the facts. So if you've got a question, just give me a call. Just give me a call. That's what I'm here for. I've got information that I'd be more than happy to share. And that's all I have.

All right. Counselor Jackson.

Lisa Thrash, I just want to say thank you for putting my mind at ease and answering my questions at 518 today. I appreciate it. I called her right before, as I was getting dressed to come down here, and we had a 20-minute conversation. I think you might have heard me brush my teeth and do my hair, but I appreciate the phone call. I appreciate you taking my phone call and answering those questions, so thank you.

doesn't change think it took you that long to be here but ok But just thank you, Lisa, and everybody else who had a hand in this plan. Really appreciate it. Glad we got it across the finish line. And just also would like to thank Chief Thompson for coming up here. We really appreciate what you do. And thank you for taking care of us in this city. And I see our fire chief also. I'd like to say thank you for what you do as well.

Thank you. Counselor Merrick. Yes. I want to thank, uh, first of all, just, uh, again, our police department, fire department that are here, uh, always, whether it's to keep a watchful eye on things that happen here, but also our community. So thank you very much for that. Um, I want to, uh, in case you didn't know, and hopefully you do know where we're, where we live, that, uh, On Monday, I want to... I had an opportunity to join the Taga County Heritage Association. Mr. John, Ms. Ann, thank you for being there. We were up at the Prattogin Museum. Thank you, Jeremy Day and, of course, Jordan Scott. And my mother's calling me right now. But, yeah. and the members of Daniel Pratt's family for a flower-laying ceremony honoring our founder, Daniel Pratt. I'm going to read off a little bit from our city page. This cherished tradition serves as a reminder of the vision, leadership, and legacy that helped shape the city of Prattville. We're grateful to the descendants of Daniel Pratt for continuing this meaningful tribute and helping preserve the history and heritage of our community. And as we honor our past, we do have a celebration. Prattville's history during Founders Week will be July 27 through the 31st. And I want you to join the City of Prattville and the Pratt-Toggin Museum for this week-long celebration that will feature scavenger hunts, exhibits, guest speakers, prizes, and more, concluding with a special concert to Lyric of Esther's featuring Prattville's own Jesse Lynn, America's Singing Cowgirl. So, again, Dawn, you were there. Thank you. And Michaela. And, again, Ms. Ann, Mr. John, I love you guys. Really, really, we really have a good thing in our community, and I'm glad to be a part of it. And I was very honored to say a few words in honor of Dana Pratt.

Thank you. Councillor Stritchick? No, thank you. Councillor Langley?

I just want to say the EDAA conference was great. Amy did a phenomenal job. She helped Prattville to shine on that stage in front of everybody, and you did great, Amy. Thank you. Mayor, I enjoyed dining with you twice over the week. It was really nice to be able to have conversations with you, Daniel, and

and of course all of the council members.

It was a good time to learn about site selection and everything that goes into EDAA and what the state offers for municipalities. Uh, we missed Merrick and we missed Whaley and, um, I am glad chambers that you have made it what three terms. I don't know that you got appreciated from Wade two terms. Okay. I think he left you out. So I wanted to appreciate you. Yes. Yeah. While we're up here. Um, but thank you guys. It was a, it was a good week and, um, I enjoyed it. So that's it.

May I add one little thing? Sure.

Today's my wife's birthday, and I'm here at a council meeting. So, honey, if you're watching, happy birthday, and I love you.

Happy birthday, Lorna.

She already clicked off the camera because you didn't wish her happy birthday on your original comment.

Save the best for last, buddy.

All right, so I just had a couple things real quick. To our employees, thank you for what you do. I know that there were a number of them here tonight. I would just like to say that having been an employee, I know the importance of what you do for our city. uh... we would not be able to provide the services that we provide that the citizens uh... desire to have without our employees we could sit up here and allocate funds until we ran out of every single penny but if we didn't have employees to provide those services uh... then then we would not be where we are as a city today so thank you to our employees Just know that we do support you, and I hope that the rate study and the increases that you'll receive prove that. To Mr. Rubin, who is not here any further, I would just like to say I think I was on the Board of Zoning Adjustments for 13 years. I couldn't imagine being on it since 1989. So that is an incredible tenure as a volunteer member of our community. So what he was able to accomplish in that many years is definitely a testament to his love for the city of Prattville. all right uh... the last thing is that there will be a town hall meeting uh... tuesday july twenty eighth here in the council chambers at six p m that is to receive public input from residents of the city of problem on the future of education in the city due to the expected attendance residents of the city of problem will be limited to speaking one time for maximum of three minutes uh... i was told today that all of the uh... responses from our survey uh... have finally this afternoon been uh... put into a uh... excel spreadsheet format and the council will receive the responses from the survey tomorrow And then we will have that so that we can share some of that information with the public as well. And then listen to the public's voice next Tuesday at 6 p.m. here in the council chambers. Our next regularly scheduled council meeting will be Tuesday, August 4th, 2026 at 6 p.m. Do I hear a motion to adjourn? Motion by Councilor Jackson. Is there a second? You made the motion. Is there a second? Second by Councilor Langley. All in favor say yes. All right. Any opposed say no. We are adjourned. Not too bad. Yeah, I mean, yeah. 7.30, I'm actually kind of... No, I'm finally finding it. I've never been in it. Yes, sir.

Yes, sir. Absolutely.

So that's it.

Thank you.

Thank you.