Jacksonville, AL –The Jacksonville City Council held a regularly scheduled work session and city council meeting on November 12th, 2024.
City Council Meeting and Regular Work Session
- Call to order.
- Invocation: Pastor Thelma Thomas
- Jesus People on the Move Christian Church
- Pledge of Allegiance.
- Roll call.
- Councilman Andy Green – Present
- Councilman Terry Wilson – Present
- Councilman Tony Taylor – Present
- Councilwoman Sherry Laster – Present
- Councilman Coty Galloway – Present
- Proclamation:
- Alabama Farm-City Week – November 22-28, 2024.
- Work Session:
- Acceptance of Minutes. – No comments
- Election Polling Locations – Brenda Long.
- Public Square Pedestrian Safety Project.
- The Public Square Pedestrian Safety Project, discussed in a recent meeting, focuses on improving safety around the square through state-funded pedestrian-friendly modifications, with ALDOT as the primary designer. Concerns were raised about funding adequacy, but engineers assured that available funds, plus potential supplementary funding, should cover the project.The project design aims to prioritize pedestrian safety while minimizing impact on adjacent businesses and properties. Key proposed changes include designated crosswalks with beacon lights for pedestrian visibility and possible adjustments to parking to enhance traffic flow and safety. The council discussed potential project flexibility, noting that while minor adjustments might be feasible, significant design changes could require additional city funding or state approval.The project also presents an opportunity for local businesses to benefit from the enhanced area through open-air events if the proposed fenced-in concrete area is utilized.
- Electric Scooter Program Agreement – Marcus Wood.
- Chief Marcus Wood presented an electric scooter program agreement involving the university’s plan to launch scooters on campus and within the city limits. A scooter company representative recently proposed that the city sign an agreement to allow scooter operations in designated areas, some of which fall within city boundaries through geofencing.The current agreement is being reviewed by the university’s attorney, Sam Monk, who suggested the possibility of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the city and university rather than a direct city-company agreement. The MOU could streamline responsibilities and coordination between the city and university, allowing the university to manage scooter-related issues while the city remains informed.
- Automated External Defibrillators – Marcus Wood.
- Chief Marcus Wood proposed an initiative to equip all city buildings with Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) to ensure swift response during medical emergencies. Using available funds from an opioid grant, the city plans to place AED units in various locations, including City Hall, the library, community center, senior center, and other municipal facilities, totaling ten units.Bob Yoder from Cardiac Solution explained that the AEDs could be bundled with Narcan to address both cardiac and overdose emergencies. He highlighted that AEDs are user-friendly for untrained individuals, with built-in safety features to guide users. Local fire and EMS services would be registered to monitor AEDs, ensuring they remain functional and updated through regular checks. The city also discussed potential placement specifics and maintenance support options, aiming to maximize accessibility across key locations.
- Water Works, Gas and Sewer Board Job Description Amendments – Michael Rinker.
- The Mayor summarized the amendments to the Water Works, Gas, and Sewer Board job descriptions, noting that the changes are primarily focused on physical requirements for employees to perform their duties. For example, the weight a worker must be able to lift was increased from 15 pounds to 25 pounds. These changes apply to various job descriptions but do not affect the pay range. The purpose of the amendments is to ensure employees can physically handle the demands of their roles. Since the adjustments are simple and straightforward, the Council decided to move forward without needing further input from Michael Rinker, who was not present.
- Christmas Parade.
- The discussion about the Christmas Parade mainly focused on logistics and preparation. Rick Edwards provided a sheet outlining the rules and regulations for the parade. One key point emphasized was the need for participants to carefully manage how they travel in the parade. The group discussed vehicle arrangements, with plans for one vehicle and a trailer. Jason mentioned the idea of purchasing their own trailer, with the Chief agreeing to store it and ensure it is regularly exercised. There was also some light-hearted discussion about hauling a latrine in the trailer, but the main concern was confirming the number of vehicles. The final details about the trailer would be addressed closer to the event.
- Bus Barn Discussion.
- The Mayor discussed the possibility of leasing the bus barn building to the Forestry Service, which has shown strong interest and would like to move in quickly. They have offered $1,200 per month for a one-year lease. The building contains some items that will need to be removed, but the Mayor believes this can be done swiftly. The Mayor recommended moving forward with the lease, as it would be beneficial for both the Forestry Service and the city to have someone occupy the building. There was also a brief discussion about maintaining the property, with plans to mow the grass and keep the exterior presentable, though no major cleaning or upkeep would be necessary. The Forestry Service will park some equipment, including trucks and a dozer, but they have requested not to clutter the space. The lease would be for one year, giving the city flexibility.
- Any other business.
- Chief Wood explained that the city has been awarded $125,000 through the COPS grant, which will help fund a new position for the police department over three years. In the first year, the grant will cover 52% of the position’s cost, with the city responsible for the remaining amount. This support decreases over time, with the grant covering 32% in the second year and 16% in the third, leaving the city responsible for a larger portion each year. After the third year, the goal is for the city to fully fund the position and retain the officer on a permanent basis.
- The Mayor provided an update on the contract with Gadsden regarding housing prisoners in Jacksonville’s jail. The contract has been mutually agreed to be terminated, and all prisoners have been moved to another location. Both parties have agreed to end the contract legally. There was a request for more details on the matter, but the Mayor emphasized the significance of the decision, stating it was an important change. The discussion included noting that a statement in the minutes would suffice for formal record-keeping regarding the contract’s conclusion.
- Adoption of minutes. – Unanimously Approved
- Adoption of agenda. – Unanimously Approved (with noted changes)
- Add: Proclamation: Alabama Farm-City Week – November 22-28, 2024.
- Add: – Consideration of Resolution No. R-2226-25 regarding Changes to CDBG LR-CM-PF-22-003, JPWP#23-114 CDBG Sewer Project Along Church Avenue, SE, Hatcher Avenue, SE and Green Avenue, SE Areas.
- Public comments concerning agenda. – None
- Consideration of Ordinance No. O-661-25 Amending Chapter 24-Zoning, Article XII-Planning Commission, Division 2-Zoning Amendments, Section 24-771-Procedures, of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Jacksonville. (Received First Reading October 28, 2024) – Unanimously Approved
- The discussion focused on a change in the voting requirements for zoning regulations. In the past, six votes were needed for approval under the old zoning rules. However, this was a voluntary vote, and it was acknowledged that not everyone may be present for the vote. The change aligns with Robert’s Rules of Order, which simplifies the process when a majority is present, rather than requiring the full six votes. The clarification was made to ensure everyone understood the adjustment to the ordinance.
- Consideration of Ordinance No. O-662-25 Amending Section 2-23 of the City Code Setting the Compensation of the Mayor, Council President, and Council Members. (First Reading) – No Action Required
- Consideration of Ordinance No. O-663-25 to Establish the Official Location of Absentee Box. (First Reading) – No Action Required
- Consideration of Ordinance No. O-664-25 to Establish the Official Voting Location of Beat 01, Box 04. (First Reading) – No Action Required
- Consideration of Resolution No. R-2223-25 regarding Agreement with the State of Alabama Preliminary Engineering and Construction Agreement for Project No. TAPSU-TA25(912), CPMS Ref. #100079552 Pedestrian Safety Improvements along SR-21 at the Public Square E and Public Square W from Dyer Street to Drayton Street. – Unanimously Approved
- Consideration of Resolution No. R-2226-25 regarding Changes to CDBG LR-CM-PF-22-003, JPWP#23-114 CDBG Sewer Project Along Church Avenue, SE, Hatcher Avenue, SE and Green Avenue, SE Areas. – Unanimously Approved
- Resolution R-2226-25 involves changes to the CDBG sewer project (JPWP number 23-114) along Church Avenue SE, Hatcher Avenue SE, and Green Avenue SE in Jacksonville. The project, initially budgeted at $603,160 with a local match of $103,160, faced cost overruns. After a public hearing on October 28, 2024, the Jacksonville City Council approved an amendment to the project budget, increasing the total cost to $786,882.05, with a local match of $286,882.05. This amendment was officially adopted on November 12, 2024.
- Consider action to authorize the Mayor to sign the Best Management Practices Plan for the Jacksonville Piedmont Landfill as prepared by TTL, Inc. – Unanimously Approved
- Consider action to authorize the Mayor to sign the Master Contract for Public Safety Services with Alabama Power Company. – Unanimously Approved
- Consider action to approve the amendments of the following job descriptions and place the current employees in the amended job descriptions: – Unanimously Approved
- Wastewater Operator III/Water Operator II, Range 15: Chuck Simmons & Bobby Hunt.
- Wastewater Operator III/Water Operator II – Trainee, Range 10: Matthew Bramblett & Eric Edgeworth.
- Lead Utility Equipment Operator, Range 15: Josh Palmer.
- Utility Equipment Operator, Range 13: Aaron Bergquist, Charles Campbell, Jesse McKnight & Thomas Thompson.
- Utility Office Field Technician, Range 11: Seth Mashburn-Goodwin & Jason Prater.
- Utility Maintenance Assistant, Range 10: Joseph Hunt & Hunter Sparks.
- The Mayor clarified that the job descriptions discussed earlier are for employees who are already in their current positions. The only change made was to rename the positions due to new requirements, such as physical capabilities necessary for the job. There were no changes to the pay or job ranges, and the employees will continue in their existing roles.
- Consider action to approve the employment of the following: – Unanimously Approved
- Shela Rena Nelson, Police Officer, Range 18, effective upon compliance with Ordinance No. 273. (new position)
- Taryn McClellan Ervin, Police Officer, Range 18, effective upon compliance with Ordinance No. 273. (new position)
- Kimberly Ann Copland, Full-Time Corrections Officer, Range 9, effective upon compliance with Ordinance No. 273, due to the transfer of Andrew Tinker to Police Officer.
- Daniel James Price, Full-Time Corrections Officer, Range 9, effective upon compliance with Ordinance No. 273, due the resignation of Joshua Goodwin.
- Consider action to approve the transfer of the following: – Unanimously Approved
- Andrew David Tinker, Police Officer, Range 18, effective November 13, 2024, due to the resignation of Dalton Crider. Mr. Tinker is currently a Corrections Officer.
- Consider action to acknowledge the retirement notification of the following: – Unanimously Approved
- Chris Patterson, Water, Gas and Sewer Manager, effective December 1, 2024.
- The council members expressed a desire to acknowledge Chris’s contributions, even though Chris was not present. They noted that Chris’s work has been phenomenal, and while it’s difficult to address the absence, the minutes will reflect the deep appreciation for everything Chris has done and how much they will be missed.
- Chris Patterson, Water, Gas and Sewer Manager, effective December 1, 2024.
- Consent Agenda – Unanimously Approved
- Purchases Over $7,500.00.
- Disposition of Surplus Property.
- Requests to Attend Conference/Training Session with Costs Exceeding $1,000.00.
- Public comments for general items.
- Luke Jackson III introduced himself as a resident of 1717 Louise Drive, Southeast, since 2009, with three children in Jacksonville City Schools and one son who graduated from JSU. He expressed his vested interest in Jacksonville and mentioned receiving a letter about a proposed rezoning of property on Louise Drive from R1 to R2. He opposed the rezoning and planned to present his concerns at the Planning Commission meeting on the 21st. Jackson noted that there are existing duplexes on Louise Drive that were originally built in the 1980s and rezoned from R1 to R2. He highlighted a previous understanding that if these duplexes were ever destroyed, they could only be rebuilt or rezoned as R1. He also mentioned that Brownwood Estates, a well-established single-family neighborhood, is near the proposed rezoning and expressed a preference for the two lots in question to remain R1. He plans to elaborate on his reasons at the Planning Commission meeting.
- Mary Connor, a resident of 1604 Louise Drive Southeast for nearly five years, spoke at the council meeting regarding the proposed rezoning of property on Louise Drive. She expressed concern about the potential impact of the rezoning on her neighborhood, particularly due to the existing issue of speeding on the road. She also noted that the street is primarily made up of single-family homes with children, which raises her concerns further. Although she didn’t prepare extensively, she wanted to share her concerns as a resident, stating that other members of the community are also worried about the proposed rezoning.
- Bob Crossley, a resident of Brown Bridge Subdivision at 1511 Louise Drive since 1997, voiced strong opposition to the proposed construction of another duplex across from existing ones on his street. He expressed concerns about the lack of space for additional duplexes, citing parking issues with the current apartments and potential traffic congestion. He emphasized that adding another duplex would exacerbate these problems and that the street simply doesn’t have room for more.
- Kenny Burrell, a resident of 1710 Louise Drive, expressed opposition to the proposed rezoning and construction of additional duplexes on his street. He shared concerns about parking problems and the dangerous situation caused by cars being parked on the street due to some properties being rented as R2. Burrell also reflected on the past, noting that a similar proposal for apartments on the property his father-in-law bought was successfully blocked by the city, which allowed for the development of homes instead. He urged the council to consider how they would feel if this development were happening in their own neighborhood. Additionally, Burrell suggested that the city consider stopping the tradition of throwing candy during the Christmas parade, citing safety concerns for children and unpredictable behavior from ATVs and four-wheelers in the parade. He noted that other cities, like Atlanta, avoid throwing items to maintain order and safety. Despite these concerns, his primary message was clear: the residents of Louise Drive do not want the R2 rezoning.
- David Duhon, a resident of Louise Drive for over 20 years, shared his concerns about the proposed rezoning. He described his neighborhood as having seen positive changes, including the development of two nice homes on previously empty lots. David mentioned that he owns land previously belonging to his father-in-law, Mr. Patterson, and highlighted his proximity to Patterson’s Lake. He spoke about the history of the area, noting that the apartments built near his property were sold with conditions, and he appreciated the addition of a church nearby. David also expressed concerns about the current apartments, referencing potential legal issues with moving ditches or creeks to facilitate construction. He emphasized his belief that the area should remain zoned R1, stating that maintaining this zoning would preserve the character of the neighborhood. Despite not feeling well, David chose to attend the meeting to voice his opinion.
- Council Member Remarks.
- Tony Taylor provided an update on the proposed trail construction along George Douthit. He mentioned that red and pink markings have been placed along the route, and construction is expected to begin soon, weather permitting. Although work was planned to start this week, rain delays may push the start date. Two crews will be working from opposite ends of the trail, meeting in the middle. He also noted the importance of having a contact person available to address any questions or concerns related to the project, particularly regarding access to school property.
- Mayor’s report.
- The Mayor’s Report highlighted several upcoming events and important dates. On November 16th, there will be a Fall Fest, which is free to attend. The Christmas Village event is scheduled for November 23rd from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the community center. The city will be closed for Thanksgiving on November 28th and 29th. The Christmas lighting ceremony on the square will take place on December 2nd at 6 p.m., with music starting 30 minutes prior. Additionally, Toys for Tots donations are being collected at a box out front to help make Christmas better for local children.
- Any Other Business. – None
- Consider action to adjourn into an Executive Session under the provisions of the Code of Alabama, Section 36-25A-7(a)(6) to discuss the consideration the governmental body is willing to offer or accept for the purchase, sale, exchange, lease or market value of real property. – Unanimously Approved
