Jacksonville, AL – The Jacksonville City Council held its regular meeting on Monday, January 26, approving several significant items, including final authorization for the Eastwood Community Safe Room project, a debated right-of-way relocation request, and amendments to the city’s short-term rental ordinance.
Eastwood Storm Shelter Receives Final Approval
The council unanimously approved Amendment No. 1 to the Eastwood Community Safe Room project (JPWP #24-123), a project more than a decade in the making following the tornado that impacted the Eastwood area.
City Engineer Josh Barkley presented updated cost figures, noting that the city’s portion of the project increased from $98,420.16 to $231,472.46, with an additional $1,700 attributed to recent steel price increases. The federal government will contribute $295,260.49, representing 75 percent of the original project budget.
Council President Terry Wilson reflected on the long timeline of the project, highlighting the collaboration and support that helped secure federal funding. The council also approved Resolution No. R-2288-26, awarding the construction bid to Bradshaw & Pitts.
Wilson emphasized that the storm shelter is part of a broader vision for the Eastwood School site, which is being developed into a community hub that includes ball fields, a disc golf course, and playground facilities.
Council Approves Right-of-Way Relocation Despite Opposition
The council unanimously approved Resolution No. R-2287-26, vacating and relocating an unimproved right-of-way between 1612 and 1702 7th Avenue Northeast. The action moves the right-of-way from the west side to the east side of property owned by Steve Sewak.
Sewak told the council that a city-installed storm drain created a permanent obstruction in the existing right-of-way, preventing its intended use. He noted that the Planning Commission had approved the relocation twice.
Neighboring property owner Jimmy Harrell opposed the request, stating that he relied on city planning documents when constructing his home at 1701 7th Avenue Northeast. Harrell expressed concern that the relocated right-of-way would direct traffic toward his master bedroom and primary driveway access.
Another nearby resident, Jay Dill, questioned whether the relocated right-of-way would be public or private, citing concerns about future development and increased traffic.
Samos Nichols, speaking on behalf of the property owner, urged approval, describing the relocation as a zero-cost solution compared to altering existing storm drain infrastructure. Barkley confirmed that the relocation would have no direct financial impact on the city.
Short-Term Rental Ordinance Receives Final Approval
The council approved Ordinance No. O-676-26 on second and final reading, amending the city’s short-term rental regulations. The ordinance establishes separate definitions for residential and non-residential short-term rentals.
Under the new rules, all short-term rental operators must obtain a business license, carry specialized insurance, and provide emergency contact information to neighboring properties. Residential short-term rentals are limited to lodging use only, while non-residential properties may host events such as weddings or parties.
The ordinance also sets occupancy limits, parking requirements, and enforcement procedures through the Code Enforcement Division. Existing and future operators have 30 days from the ordinance’s effective date to obtain the required licenses.
Fire Station Amendment Approved
The council approved Amendment No. 3 to JPWP #24-128 for the new Fire Station No. 2 project. No additional details were discussed during the public portion of the meeting.
Police Vehicle Equipment Purchases Authorized
The council approved equipment purchases for two police department vehicles through Buster Miles Upfitters. City Clerk Brenda Long explained that the city revised its bidding process this year to lock in pricing for an entire year rather than bidding on each vehicle individually.
Personnel Actions
The council accepted multiple personnel actions, including the resignation of Tametrius Long, a part-time laborer at the Community Center, effective January 23, 2026.
One agenda item generated public comment regarding the listing of a voluntary demotion for Police Sergeant Michael Damoni Pinto. His wife, Veronica Damoni-Pinto, told the council that her husband had voluntarily resigned rather than accepted a demotion, stating the two actions should not be characterized the same.
The council also approved the hiring of Jay Wright Wilson as Recreation and Athletics Coordinator, filling the position vacated by Ed Cannadey’s retirement.
Other Business
The council authorized Mayor Mark Jones to sign several agreements, including a finder’s fee agreement with Retail Specialists LLC, a scheduled service agreement with TRANE Technologies for the Public Safety Complex, and a memorandum of understanding with East Alabama Emergency Medical Services for communications equipment.
Public Comments on Road Construction
During general public comments, a resident raised safety concerns regarding ongoing road construction between Jacksonville and Anniston, citing issues with temporary paint markings and loose gravel. Police Chief Marcus Wood explained that the Alabama Department of Transportation is waiting for warmer temperatures to complete paving and plans to conduct all striping in one operation once the project area is fully paved.
JSU ROTC Achievement Recognized
A student representing Jacksonville State University ROTC updated the council on the program’s performance at the Ranger Challenge competition at Fort Benning, Georgia. The team placed 14th out of 43 teams, competing against larger universities including Florida State, Alabama, Auburn, and Georgia Southern. The team also earned the Brigade Spirit Stick, awarded for exemplifying the warrior ethos.
Council Member Remarks
Council members highlighted upcoming events and community matters. Councilmember Marques Green noted the Jacksonville Christian Outreach Center’s annual community meeting, where the organization showcased its outreach efforts, including blessing boxes and service programs. Green was also announced as chairman of the annual Black History Program, scheduled for February 22 at 3 p.m. at the Community Center. Councilmember Newell asked the community to remember the Suddeth family following a recent death.
