Anniston, AL – The city of Anniston held the regular scheduled work session and city council meeting on October 15th, 2024.
Work Session
- Presentation
- Update from United Way representatives concerning Martha’s Hope Homelessness Initiative
- During the meeting, representatives from United Way, Shannon Jenkins and Kyle Bryant, provided an update on the Martha’s Hope Homelessness Initiative. They expressed excitement about recent developments, particularly regarding the potential acquisition of the Bridge property from the Anniston First United Methodist Church, which currently serves as a warming station.The lowest bid for the original facility’s construction came in at $2.9 million, prompting a discussion on cost-effective alternatives. The proposed pivot to the Bridge property offers significant advantages, including a commercial kitchen and existing showers, which were not part of the original design. This new direction is expected to save approximately $1.1 million and provide greater capacity for serving clients, with more square footage and additional office space for case managers and mental health initiatives.Kyle Bryant presented the revised plans for the facility, emphasizing the layout changes that would accommodate emergency housing and common areas for clients while ensuring safety and accessibility. Pastor Tammy Jackson from Anniston First United Methodist Church highlighted the vision of the Bridge as a connection between the church and the community, viewing this collaboration as a win-win situation that benefits both the church and the initiative. The meeting concluded with positive remarks about the partnership and its potential to address homelessness in the community effectively.
- Update from United Way representatives concerning Martha’s Hope Homelessness Initiative
- Collection Charges
- Resolution Authorizing the Finance Director to Write-Off Account Receivables for Certain Household Refuse Collection Charges
- The discussion focused on a resolution to authorize the Finance Director to write off a total of $720,000 in account receivables related to household refuse collection charges. The discussion highlighted the challenges faced in collecting overdue payments, with many accounts being over 90 days past due.Speakers addressed the difficulties encountered with collection efforts, including attempts to involve a collections agency and issues with missing information on some accounts. The conversation revealed that a significant portion of the debt dates back several years, with some accounts being inactive for so long that they involve deceased individuals.Despite the write-off, council members expressed optimism about improved processes being put in place to prevent future accumulation of bad debt. They noted that, since implementing a new system, the city has seen a decrease in overdue accounts and is now more proactive in managing collections. Overall, the focus was on ensuring that the city can recover costs while also considering the needs of residents who are genuinely struggling to pay their bills.
- Resolution Authorizing the Finance Director to Write-Off Account Receivables for Certain Household Refuse Collection Charges
- Bingo Application
- Bingo permit application for the Elk’s Lodge BPOE #189 located inside the corporate limits of Anniston 1019 South Noble Street
- The discussions addressed a bingo permit application for the Elk’s Lodge BPOE #189, located at 1019 South Noble Street within the corporate limits of Anniston. The lodge currently holds an existing permit, and the application aims to renew or continue their operations.The discussion highlighted past community issues related to bingo operations, indicating a routine evaluation of the lodge’s compliance and contributions to the community. Members expressed support for the application while ensuring that all necessary regulations and standards are met to maintain community standards and address any previous concerns. Overall, the focus was on the lodge’s role in the community and the importance of following proper procedures for the permit.
- Bingo permit application for the Elk’s Lodge BPOE #189 located inside the corporate limits of Anniston 1019 South Noble Street
- New City Hall
- Change order for New City Hall regarding flooring for the foyer entrance totaling $7,159.50
- The discussion centered on a change order for the New City Hall project, specifically concerning flooring for the foyer entrance, amounting to $7,159.50. The need for this change arose after the movement of walls revealed that some marble flooring was missing, necessitating its replacement to ensure a consistent appearance.One council member noted that while there was also a pending change order for the chiller estimated between $7,000 and $8,000, further evaluation is needed before proceeding. The current flooring change was deemed urgent due to safety concerns and had already received initial approval from the Historic Preservation Committee as part of the original plans. This change is considered essential to complete the foyer’s design appropriately.
- Change order for New City Hall regarding flooring for the foyer entrance totaling $7,159.50
- Election
- Discussion on changing the polling location in Ward 2 from Refuge II Church to the Anniston Regional Training Center; and making the Senior Rehabilitation Center a permanent location for Ward 1
- The discussion focused on changing the polling location for Ward 2 from Refuge II Church to the Anniston Regional Fire Training Center, while also establishing the Senior Rehabilitation Center as a permanent polling location for Ward 1.Concerns were raised about ensuring that residents are informed of these changes, particularly those who may be affected by the transition between wards. Once the council approves the changes, a communication blitz will be initiated to notify the public of their designated polling places.It was noted that the Senior Rehabilitation Center had already been used as a polling location in the last election, making it a familiar choice. However, due to HIPAA regulations, returning to the health department as a polling site is not an option.The council plans to conduct a public hearing on the changes to gather community feedback on the proposed new location and intends to hold a vote on the matter in December.
- Discussion on the possibility of changing the council salary for incoming council members
- The discussion centered on the potential change to the council salary for incoming members. One participant emphasized the need to explore what constitutes a reasonable city council salary, suggesting that staff conduct further research on this topic. They proposed addressing the issue in an upcoming meeting on the 19th, noting that it wasn’t included in the agenda for the previous meeting on the 30th.
- Discussion on changing the polling location in Ward 2 from Refuge II Church to the Anniston Regional Training Center; and making the Senior Rehabilitation Center a permanent location for Ward 1
- City Manager Updates
- City Manager Steven Folks provided several updates during the discussion. He mentioned that Richard Thompson, associated with the old vegan model at 115 Moore, is interested in donating the building to the city for potential release. Folks asked for input from the council on this matter before he initiates discussions with Mr. Rehan from Old Chicago, noting that they have been considering this opportunity for some time.Additionally, he introduced , Michelle Ellison, who will be stepping into her role and noted that she will soon meet with representativesas part of her new responsibilities.
City Council
- Roll Call
- Mayor Jack Draper – Present
- Ward 1 Councilman Jay Jenkins – Present
- Ward 2 Councilman Demetric D. Roberts – Present
- Ward 3 Councilwoman Ciara Smith – Present
- Ward 4 Councilwoman Millie Harris – Present
- Reading and Approval of Minutes – Unanimously Approved (Smith Abstained)
- Adoption to Agenda – Unanimously Approved Unanimously Approved
- Proclamation
- Recognizing Respiratory Care Week- Anniston RMC
- During the city council meeting, a proclamation was presented recognizing Respiratory Care Week from October 20th to 26th, 2024, in honor of the work done by the Regional Medical Center (RMC). The proclamation highlighted the essential role of the RMC Respiratory Therapy Department in patient care, emphasizing their dedication to improving lung function and treating respiratory conditions across all age groups.Christopher Carlton, Director of Rescue Board Services at RMC, along with his team, expressed gratitude for the recognition and thanked the city of Anniston for the opportunity. Council members acknowledged the hard work of the respiratory care staff, reinforcing the importance of their contributions to the community’s health and well-being.
- Recognizing Respiratory Care Week- Anniston RMC
- Public Hearing
- To receive public comments on a bingo permit application for the Elks Lodge BPOE #189 located inside the corporate limits of Anniston 1019 South Noble Street – No Comments
- Unfinished Business
- No specific items were reported under unfinished business.
- Consent Agenda – Unanimously Approved
- Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to execute a grant application for federal assistance for Fiscal Year 2025 with the United States Department of Transportation Federal Aviation Administration Through The State of Alabama Department of Transportation
- Motion to approve the bingo permit application for the Elks Lodge BPOE #189 located inside the corporate limits of Anniston 1019 South Noble Street
- Motion to approve the change order regarding the flooring in the foyer entrance of New City Hall totaling $7,159.50.
- Motion to award the bid for the grass-cutting and clean-up of thirty-five (34) lots to Wendy Thornton should be awarded the bid for the properties: 2826 Walnut Ave, 313 Walnut Ave, 2930 Noble Street, 312 Chestnut Ave, 1307 E 11th Street, 2604 Wilmer Ave, 2406 Walnut Ave, 724 Blue Ridge Dr., 2126 Moore Ave, 2705 McClellan Blvd, 2705 McClellan Blvd, 0 McClellan Blvd, 3034 Moore Ave totaling $2,400.00; Mr. Clips should be awarded the bid for the property: 223 North Ave totaling $400.00; Word & Deed Ventures should be awarded the bid for the property: 419 Lapsley Ave totaling $200.00; Belle It Out should be awarded the bid for the properties: 1415 E 11th Street, 2113 Walnut Ave, 2313 McCoy Ave, 2510 Gurnee Ave, 2522 Walnut Ave, 1101 W 18th Street totaling $2,750.00; JamTop Services should be awarded the bid for the property, 801 E 22nd Street totaling $550.00; One Man One Mower should be awarded the bid for the property,14 Adams Street totaling $350.00; A Simple Lawn Service should be awarded the bid for the properties, 1216 Crescent Ave, 200 E 27th Street totaling $1,400.00; David’s Lawn Maintenance should be awarded the bid for the properties: 917 Claxton, 2005 Gurnee Ave, 2836 Gurnee Ave totaling: $790.00; MPM Enterprise should be awarded the bid for the property, 1308 E 11th Street totaling $125.00; T&D Stump Grinding should be awarded the bid for the property, 626 Sidney Circle totaling $650.00; His Grass Guys should be awarded the bid for the properties: 2701 Old Quintard Ave, 0 S Leighton totaling $1,450.00
- Resolutions – Unanimously Approved
- Resolution Authorizing the Finance Director to Write-off Account Receivables for Certain Household Refuse Collection Charges
- Additional Matters that Come Before the Council – None
- Public Comments – None
- Council Comments
- Councilwoman Harris
- Councilwoman Harris expressed her hope for a happy and festive Halloween for everyone. She encouraged the community to join in the celebrations, highlighting the expected turnout of children and families. Harris emphasized the joyful spirit of the occasion and thanked everyone for their participation.
- Councilwoman Smith had no comments other than to wish that all have a great day.
- Councilman Roberts expressed his appreciation for community members attending the meeting, emphasizing that their presence shows they care and are engaged in the growth of Anniston. He thanked the city staff for their efforts, stating that their work makes it easier for the council to make decisions. Additionally, he expressed gratitude to Dr. Mitchell and encouraged everyone to check with family and friends about upcoming initiatives, highlighting the importance of community involvement.
- Councilman Jenkins
- Councilman Jenkins delivered an emotional and reflective statement, expressing deep gratitude for his tenure as a public servant. He began by thanking everyone present and acknowledged the honor it has been to serve the citizens of Anniston since January 2010. Jenkins highlighted that he cherished the opportunity to work on behalf of the community, and he expressed his appreciation for the trust the citizens had placed in him over the years.He directed special thanks to both past and present members of the Anniston city staff, commending their dedication to addressing community concerns and finding solutions to improve the city. Jenkins emphasized that the hard work of the staff played a critical role in making elected officials look good, reinforcing the importance of teamwork and collaboration between the council and the city’s administration.Jenkins also extended his appreciation to his fellow council members, recognizing the value of their open dialogue, differing viewpoints, and shared efforts in shaping a unified vision for Anniston’s future. He spoke passionately about his love for the city, expressing optimism about its trajectory and excitement for the opportunities that lie ahead. Jenkins affirmed that the city is progressing in the right direction, and he remains confident in the collective efforts being made to ensure a better future.Despite his enthusiasm for Anniston’s future, Jenkins shared that he had reached a turning point in his personal life. Over the past several months, it had become clear that he needed to make changes for both his business and his health. This realization led him to the difficult decision to resign from his position as Council Member of Ward 1. He explained that stepping down was necessary to focus on other areas of his life.In closing, Jenkins formally announced his resignation, effective immediately, and offered his best wishes for the city’s continued growth and success. He left the council with words of encouragement, urging civic leaders to continue asking tough questions and making the hard decisions that will drive equality and economic growth in Anniston for years to come.
- Councilman Jenkins delivered an emotional and reflective statement, expressing deep gratitude for his tenure as a public servant. He began by thanking everyone present and acknowledged the honor it has been to serve the citizens of Anniston since January 2010. Jenkins highlighted that he cherished the opportunity to work on behalf of the community, and he expressed his appreciation for the trust the citizens had placed in him over the years.He directed special thanks to both past and present members of the Anniston city staff, commending their dedication to addressing community concerns and finding solutions to improve the city. Jenkins emphasized that the hard work of the staff played a critical role in making elected officials look good, reinforcing the importance of teamwork and collaboration between the council and the city’s administration.Jenkins also extended his appreciation to his fellow council members, recognizing the value of their open dialogue, differing viewpoints, and shared efforts in shaping a unified vision for Anniston’s future. He spoke passionately about his love for the city, expressing optimism about its trajectory and excitement for the opportunities that lie ahead. Jenkins affirmed that the city is progressing in the right direction, and he remains confident in the collective efforts being made to ensure a better future.Despite his enthusiasm for Anniston’s future, Jenkins shared that he had reached a turning point in his personal life. Over the past several months, it had become clear that he needed to make changes for both his business and his health. This realization led him to the difficult decision to resign from his position as Council Member of Ward 1. He explained that stepping down was necessary to focus on other areas of his life.In closing, Jenkins formally announced his resignation, effective immediately, and offered his best wishes for the city’s continued growth and success. He left the council with words of encouragement, urging civic leaders to continue asking tough questions and making the hard decisions that will drive equality and economic growth in Anniston for years to come.
- Councilwoman Harris
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- Mayor Draper began his comments by addressing Councilman Jenkins, expressing gratitude for his nearly 15 years of service to the City of Anniston. Draper acknowledged Jenkins’ dedication to his constituents and praised the great work he had done during his tenure. He mentioned that Jenkins’ resignation came as a surprise but emphasized that he understood Jenkins’ decision and wished him continued success in the future. Draper also noted that they would all speak with Jenkins individually after the meeting.Additionally, Mayor Draper highlighted that this meeting marked Myra’s last city council meeting before her retirement at the end of the month. He recognized her nearly 20 years of service to the city, during which she worked honorably in the executive office, supporting both the city manager and the city council, as well as the citizens of Anniston. Draper expressed his appreciation for Myra’s work, stating that she would be greatly missed and looked forward to celebrating her service later in the month. He closed by congratulating her on her retirement.
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- Adjournment – Unanimously Approved
For those interested in filling the vacant Ward 1 postion: the City of Anniston is currently accepting resumes for the position of City Council Member for Ward 1, following the resignation of Councilman Jay Jenkins. Applicants interested in filling this position must meet five key qualifications as outlined by the City Manager Act of 1953, Alabama Code § 45-8A-23.053 and § 45-8A-23.050. These requirements include:
- Age Requirement: Candidates must be at least 21 years old.
- Residency: Applicants must reside in Ward 1 and continue residing there throughout their term. Residence must be permanent, not temporary, with a physical presence in the ward and an intention to stay there.
- Voter Registration: Candidates must be registered voters.
- No Conflicting Positions: Applicants cannot hold another elected or paid public office, except for positions within the national guard or military reserves.
- Criminal Record: Candidates must not have been convicted of any crime involving moral turpitude.
Resumes can be submitted in person at the City Manager’s Office at City Hall, 4309 McClellan Boulevard, or via email at [email protected]. The deadline for submission is 9:00 a.m. CST on Thursday, October 31, 2024.
For more information or to verify eligibility, applicants can contact the City Manager’s Office at 256-236-3422 or visit the provided ward maps and boundary descriptions.
This vacancy comes at a pivotal time for the Ward 1 community, as the appointed council member will represent the ward for the remainder of the current term.
