Piedmont, AL – During the recent Piedmont City Council meeting, Mayor Baker and council members delved into a discussion focused on crucial financial matters, proposing cost-cutting measures and addressing significant issues affecting the city’s budget.
Councilman Jubal Feazell took center stage, presenting a comprehensive proposal aimed at preventing future financial crises. The lengthy proposal, discussed at length, aims to bring stability to Piedmont’s economic future. However, some council members expressed the need for additional time to thoroughly review the intricate details.
A notable development from the meeting was the decision to halt any new hires. This measure aligns with the broader objective of scrutinizing the city’s finances and ensuring a responsible approach to expenditure.
The Council also received a quote of $91,327.56 for a pump station at the 5th Avenue Lift Station. City Clerk and Mayor Baker indicated that rescue funds would be utilized for this project, with a timeline expected 7-9 months from now.
In a procedural adjustment, Council Member Terry Kiser successfully motioned to move the December 19th meeting to December 12th, providing logistical flexibility for the Council.
Police Chief Nathan Johnson shared law enforcement statistics, reporting a total of 51 arrests on 58 misdemeanor charges and 7 felony charges. Chief Johnson also highlighted 16 abatement cases that the Police Department addressed.
Interim Fire Chief Cale Donaldson provided an overview of the Fire Department’s activities, reporting 115 calls in October and detailing various training sessions conducted during the month.
Mayor Baker, in his comments, expressed gratitude for the community’s engagement and voiced his commitment to the well-being of Piedmont. He extended Thanksgiving wishes to all residents and announced the upcoming Christmas Parade on December 4th at 6 pm.
In a separate but equally crucial development, Piedmont City Council addressed recent concerns about a sudden rate hike affecting utility customers. The rate increase of 30 percent, attributed to rising fuel charges from Alabama Power, drew substantial public dissatisfaction. Corey Horton, head of the city’s electrical department, clarified the necessity of the increase due to outstanding bills owed to Alabama Municipal Electric Authority.
Acknowledging the communication lapse, Horton apologized for the abruptness of the rate adjustment and pledged to address the issue promptly. Councilman Jubal Feazell proposed a multifaceted plan, involving a partial rollback of the rate increase and implementing cost-saving measures. The proposal, adopted by a 4-2 vote, seeks to strike a balance between financial stability and community satisfaction.
The rate hike reversal comes as a relief to utility customers who were taken aback by unexpected retroactive bills. The Council’s commitment to a rate study and transparent communication demonstrates an earnest effort to rectify past missteps and ensure responsible financial management for the city of Piedmont. The next Piedmont City Council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, December 5th, continuing the ongoing discussions about the city’s financial well-being.
