JACKSONVILLE, AL — The Jacksonville City Council convened Monday evening for their November 24 meeting, tackling issues ranging from a winter homeless assistance program to rising insurance costs and community economic development.
Matthew 25 Project Seeks Funding for Homeless Relief
Donna Etheredge presented an update on the Matthew 25 Project, a collaborative effort with The Right Place nonprofit organization aimed at providing shelter for Jacksonville’s homeless population during extreme winter weather. The program focuses on hotel voucher assistance rather than operating a traditional warming station.
Etheredge reported the initiative currently has approximately four to five known homeless individuals in Jacksonville who may need assistance. Based on National Weather Service data, the region experiences roughly 50 days with freezing temperatures during winter months, primarily in January.
The project has raised $1,230 to date, including $500 from the city’s previous budget year and contributions from local churches and individuals. Etheredge requested an additional $5,000 from the city to support the program through winter, noting that sheltering one individual for all 50 nights would cost approximately $5,720 at current hotel rates of $100 per night.
The Right Place will administer the program, providing quarterly reports on fund utilization and working to connect participants with long-term housing solutions and social services. Organizers are scheduled to meet with Red Roof Inn ownership to negotiate discounted room rates and plan to apply for additional grant funding.
Council President Terry Wilson indicated the council would revisit the funding request at their next meeting.
Internet Sales Tax Revenue Protection
Calhoun County Administrator Jonathan Gaddy addressed the council regarding an ongoing lawsuit that could affect the Simplified Sellers Use Tax program. The SSUT system currently allows online retailers to collect a flat 8% sales tax, with revenues distributed to state and local governments based on population formulas.
Jacksonville has seen significant growth in SSUT revenue, increasing from approximately $682,000 in fiscal year 2021 to $1.3 million through September of the current fiscal year, according to figures shared during the meeting.
Gaddy explained that larger municipalities are challenging the system, seeking to require online sellers to collect local sales tax rates instead. He cautioned that such a change could result in revenue loss for smaller cities and counties due to legal complexities and safe harbor thresholds for small businesses.
The Calhoun County Commission has passed a resolution joining the defense of the current system and invited Jacksonville to do the same. Gaddy indicated the Association of County Commissions needs resolutions by December 3.
Insurance Costs and Departmental Authority
The council reviewed health insurance options, with costs discussed but no immediate action taken. The decision deadline is December 16.
In an effort to streamline operations, the council agreed to increase departmental spending authority from $500 to $2,000. Wilson noted the $500 threshold had remained unchanged for approximately 25 years and no longer reflected current costs for routine purchases such as vehicle tires.
Mayor Mark Jones emphasized that department heads would remain accountable for budget management despite the increased authority.
Additional Business
The council approved several routine items, including:
- A contract amendment for inspection services at the new Fire Station No. 2 site
- A pole barn for the Parks and Recreation Department maintenance shop
- The 2026 council meeting schedule
- Additional holidays for December 26, 2025, and January 2, 2026
Jacksonville State University reported record attendance of 24,166 at their final home football game, the largest sellout in school history. The university will host Western Kentucky at 1 p.m. Saturday, with a win securing the Conference USA championship game.
Community member Jonathan Woodrow pledged $1,000 toward improving the city’s Christmas tree display on the square and advocated for establishing a business development position focused on job growth and attracting manufacturing operations.
The Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity offered to provide volunteer photography services for Santa pictures at the Ladiga Holiday Trail event and expressed interest in additional community service opportunities.
Mayor Jones, in his first month in office, thanked the council and city employees for their support during his transition and reminded residents to focus on gratitude during Thanksgiving.
The council adjourned into executive session to discuss personnel matters, real property considerations, and economic development.
