Jacksonville City Council Discusses Pedestrian Safety Improvements, Farmers Market, and Outdoor Fitness Center in October Meeting

City Council Meeting and Regular Work Session

• CDBG Presentation
  • Matt Halls, a CDBG engineer, presented updates on pedestrian safety improvements along State Route 21. Following a 2022 pedestrian fatality, ALDOT commissioned a study that identified key safety enhancements, especially near Jacksonville State University and the public square, which will be implemented in phases. Key recommendations included:
    1. Pedestrian Warning Systems: Installation of rapid flashing beacons at existing crosswalks on the public square’s north and south sides to enhance visibility and improve motorist yielding rates.
    2. Lighting and Visibility Enhancements: Additional lighting will be installed at crosswalks to increase pedestrian visibility.
    3. Median Buffers: New medians will help separate parking areas from travel lanes, reducing pedestrian crosswalk distances and improving safety.
    4. Sidewalk Expansion: Expanding sidewalk space will improve visibility for both pedestrians and drivers, especially at crossing points.

    The city has received $800,000 in TAP funding, with a $200,000 city match. The project will undergo cost checks at various design stages, allowing for adjustments to stay within budget. Flexibility will be incorporated with options to prioritize critical elements in a base bid and use additive alternates for lower-priority features, helping maintain budgetary control while maximizing safety upgrades.

• Call to order.
• Invocation. – Rev. Robert Fowler St. Lukes’ Episcopal Church
• Pledge of Allegiance.
• Roll call.
  • Tony Taylor – Present
  • Sherry Laster – Present
  • Coty Galloway – Present
  • Andy Green – Present
  • Terry Wilson – Present
• Proclamation: None
• Work Session:
  • Acceptance of Minutes.
  • Farmers Market Budget – Jennifer Thrash.
    • Jennifer Thrash, organizer of the Jacksonville Farmers Market, addressed the Jacksonville City Council to discuss the need for a permanent location for the market, which she believes would greatly benefit the community and contribute to the market’s growth and success. Thrash outlined her vision for the market, explaining that a dedicated site would allow them to apply for state grants aimed at infrastructure and signage, essential for establishing the market as a recognized community fixture and drawing in new visitors.In her presentation, Thrash shared that the Jacksonville Farmers Market, despite its lack of a permanent location, has already garnered notable achievements, ranking second among Alabama’s top farmers markets. This success, she argued, could be further amplified with a stable site that would enable the market to plan long-term improvements, better support local vendors, and contribute to local economic development.Thrash detailed how the market currently operates with a model that reinvests vendor fees into market necessities. These fees, rather than being allocated to city expenses, are used directly for promotional materials like signs, banners, and t-shirts, which help in raising awareness and attracting both vendors and shoppers. This reinvestment strategy has allowed the market to maintain a steady presence, but she explained that securing a permanent site would allow them to elevate their reach and services even more effectively.

      Thrash presented the council with three potential locations she had identified as suitable for the market: however, all three were eventually determined to be unavailable. She explained that these locations could have met the market’s space, accessibility, and visibility needs, essential elements for an effective farmers market location. Given these setbacks, she asked city officials to work with her to identify any city-owned property that might accommodate the market’s operational needs.

      In addition to her appeal for a permanent location, Thrash stressed the cultural and economic value the farmers market brings to Jacksonville. She spoke about how the market fosters community connections, provides a platform for local artisans and farmers, and stimulates foot traffic that benefits other local businesses. She noted that a designated market space would allow them to further engage the community through additional events, educational programming, and more diverse offerings, ultimately creating a ripple effect that enhances the quality of life and economic stability in the area.

      Thrash’s presentation underscored her dedication to ensuring that the Jacksonville Farmers Market not only remains a beloved feature of the city but becomes a well-established institution. Her appeal to the council emphasized the market’s potential for continued growth, calling on city leaders to support its success by investing in a location that will allow the market to thrive long-term.

    • Following Jennifer Thrash’s presentation, several other speakers voiced their support for the Jacksonville Farmers Market and shared their perspectives on the benefits a permanent location could bring to the community.Local vendor Mary Ann Robinson, who sells handmade crafts at the market, emphasized the role the market plays in promoting small businesses like hers. She explained that the Jacksonville Farmers Market provides an invaluable platform for local artisans, allowing them to reach customers who are passionate about supporting local products. Robinson shared her hope that a permanent location would not only boost vendor sales but also enable them to build relationships with regular customers, creating a more stable income stream for small business owners in the area.Dr. Robert Kelley, a retired educator and frequent market attendee, highlighted the market’s impact on community health and wellness. He explained that the market offers residents access to fresh, locally grown produce, which is essential for promoting healthy lifestyles in the community. Dr. Kelley argued that a permanent, accessible market site would make it easier for people to incorporate fresh food into their diets, particularly for elderly residents who may struggle to access grocery stores. He noted that beyond its health benefits, the market brings people together and fosters a sense of community that he believes is vital to Jacksonville’s social fabric.

      Community leader Angela Reed, who volunteers with several local organizations, spoke about the market’s potential to serve as an educational resource. Reed explained that a permanent location could allow the market to expand its programming to include workshops on sustainable gardening, cooking demonstrations, and nutrition education. She shared her vision of the market becoming a “hub for learning,” where residents of all ages could come together to gain skills and knowledge that would benefit them individually and collectively. Reed urged the council to consider the long-term educational and social value of investing in a dedicated space for the market.

      Lastly, small farm owner Jacob Hayes shared his experiences as a vendor and emphasized the economic opportunities that the market provides for local farmers. Hayes spoke about the market’s supportive environment, where vendors and customers engage directly, building trust in the quality and origins of their products. He believes a permanent location could help farmers grow their customer base, leading to increased sales and more consistent revenue. Hayes noted that many small-scale farmers struggle to compete with larger grocery chains and that a dedicated market space would help level the playing field by giving them reliable access to local consumers who prioritize fresh, locally sourced food.

      Overall, the speakers underscored the Jacksonville Farmers Market’s role in enhancing the city’s economic, social, and health landscape, aligning with Jennifer Thrash’s appeal for a permanent site. Their shared experiences highlighted a united community interest in transforming the market into a stable, long-term fixture that would benefit Jacksonville on multiple levels.

  • Mill Property Discussion.
    • During the Mill Property Discussion, the council addressed the existing contract with Kevin, which had been previously reviewed. Richard prepared a new contract that incorporates the relevant points from the earlier agreement with Kevin, effectively combining both into a single document. One council member mentioned having briefly glanced at the new contract but not having had enough time to thoroughly review it before the meeting.There was a consensus that it would be prudent to postpone the vote until the next meeting, allowing both Kevin and the council members ample time to examine the contract in detail. The speaker expressed concern about the potential impact of further delays on Kevin’s willingness to engage, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that everything needed for the contract is in order. The council agreed to this approach, aiming to move forward thoughtfully while maintaining good relations with Kevin. They also confirmed the intention to reconvene and finalize the decision in the following meeting.
  • Mayor and Council Members Pay and Benefits.
    • During the discussion about Mayor and Council Members’ pay and benefits, there was a clear consensus that the current salaries need to be increased. The council noted that the last raise for regular council members was in 1999, for the council president in 2016, and for the mayor in 2012. Proposed adjustments included increasing the council members’ monthly pay to $800 and the council president’s to $1,000, with a suggestion to raise the mayor’s salary from $2,500 to $3,000, possibly even $3,500, reflecting the responsibilities involved in the role.One member highlighted that the increase was necessary considering inflation and the current cost of living, referencing the Consumer Price Index (CPI) comparison between 1999 and 2024. The conversation included the idea of offering full benefits to council members, with some discussions on how benefits would work, including options for those opting out. Concerns were raised about whether these benefits would be taxable, but it was indicated that they would likely be pre-tax.The council agreed that any adjustments would not take effect until after the next election cycle, which is set for November 2025. This stipulation allows the current council to finalize the proposed changes in a resolution and ensure that all members have the opportunity to review the details before voting.
  • Outdoor Fitness Center – Patricia Daigle.
    • Patricia Daigle provided an update on the National Fitness Campaign related to the proposed Outdoor Fitness Center during a city council meeting. Here are the key details she discussed:
      1. Funding Overview:
         • The city has received a $50,000 grant from the National Fitness Campaign, but additional funding is needed to cover the total costs of $110,000 for equipment and $47,000 for concrete and construction.
         • Daigle has applied for $150,000 in grants from various sources but has yet to receive responses regarding these applications.
      2. Funding Deadline:
         • The National Fitness Campaign has set a deadline of November 13 for the city to confirm funding for the outstanding $110,000 needed to proceed with the project.
      3. Options for the City Council:
         • Daigle presented two options for the city council:
           • Proceed with securing the funding now, which would involve finding immediate financial solutions.
           • Defer the project to 2025, allowing more time to seek additional funding sources, including local businesses, healthcare entities, and potential sponsorships.
      4. Community Interest:
         • She emphasized the positive feedback from the community, noting that many residents are interested in the fitness center. Daigle believes that moving forward with the project would benefit the community and that they have a vested interest in its success.
      5. Sponsorship Opportunities:
         • If the project is deferred, Daigle mentioned that the National Fitness Campaign offers a sponsorship campaign that could assist in crafting outreach materials. This would include letters to local physical therapy clinics, medical offices, and other potential sponsors, encouraging them to support the project.
         • As of the meeting, there is already a $10,000 commitment from a Jacksonville resident who wishes to contribute to the fitness center.
      6. Next Steps:
         • Daigle indicated that she needs to communicate the city council’s decision regarding the funding confirmation soon, ideally within the next two weeks.
         • If the council opts to defer the project, it does not mean they are definitively committing to funding the full amount in the future. They can still choose to withdraw from the project later if necessary.
      7. Collaboration with County:
         • During the discussion, Daigle also touched on potential collaboration with county representatives who might be interested in contributing funding. She plans to discuss this further with a contact named Aubrey, who was exploring county interest in the project.

      Overall, Daigle expressed excitement about the potential for the Outdoor Fitness Center and the community’s positive reception. She urged the city council to consider deferring the project to allow for better funding opportunities while ensuring they remain engaged with the National Fitness Campaign.

  • Any other business. – None
• Adoption of minutes. – Unanimously Approved
• Adoption of agenda. – Unanimously Approved with changes 
  • Amend: Considernation of Ordiance 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 (first reading)
  • Add: Consideration of Resolution No. R-2225-25 regarding the Extension of tempary closure of Church Ave, NE between Bennett lvd, NE and 6th St, NE and Roebuck Waters Street, NE up to College Apartments
  • Add: Consent Agenda Decstruction of Records – Finance FY2020
• Public comments concerning agenda. – None
• Public Hearing regarding CDBG Amendment to Project Number LR-CM-PF-22-003 involving improvements to sanitary sewer system. –
  • Jillian Farmer, the project coordinator for the East Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission, addressed the need for a formal amendment regarding a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) project. The project, related to sewage rehabilitation, had originally been budgeted at $603,160 but has increased to $786,882.05 due to higher-than-expected construction bids.Farmer explained that the CDBG funding is capped at $500,000, so the additional $286,882.05 will come from a local match already committed by the Water Board. She emphasized that the funding must benefit low to moderate-income communities in Jacksonville.

    She provided details on the remaining project balances, including:

    • $32,242 for administration
    • $19,950 for engineering
    • $41,350 spent on engineering so far
    • $13,818 spent on administration
    • $485,276.90 already spent on construction

    Farmer concluded her presentation by mentioning the need for signatures on documents to send to the state and invited any questions or comments from the attendees. There were no further comments, and the public hearing was then closed.

• Considernation of Ordiance No. O-661-25 amendeding Chapter 24 – Zoning, Article XII Planning COmmision, Division 2 – Zoning Amendments, Section 24-771 – Proceduures of the Code of Ordaniacies of the City of Jacksonville (first reading) – No Action
• Consideration of Resolution No. R-2224-25 to award Bid No. #24-12, JPWP #23-116 Hospital Lift Station and Sewer Line Repairs to Video Industrial Services, Inc. – Unanimously Approved
• Condideration of Resolution No. R-2225-25 regarding the Extension of temporary closure of Church Ave, NE between Bennett Blvd, NE and 6th St, NE and Roebuck Waters Street, NE up to College Apartments – Unanimously Approved
• Consider action to approve JPWP No. 25-132, Filter Tanks Media Replacement at Big Springs. – Unanimously Approved
• Consider action to authorize the Mayor to sign the agreement with K & D Adventures, LLC. – Unanimously Approved
• Consider action to authorize the Mayor to sign the Clearview AI Agreement. – Unanimously Approved
• Consider action to authorize the Mayor to sign the Agreement with East Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission for FY2025 ADA Paratransit Services. – Unanimously Approved
• Consider action to authorize the Mayor to sign the Service Agreement with Easton Parker. – Unanimously Approved
• Consider action to authorize the Mayor to sign the Service Agreement with Ray Hawthorne. – Unanimously Approved
• Consider action to authorize the Mayor, on behalf of the Water Works, Gas and Sewer Board, to sign the Service Agreement with Mark Ford. – Unanimously Approved
• Consider action to approve the employment of the following: – Unanimously Approved
  • Jason Christopher Tiedemann, Full-Time Firefighter/Paramedic, Range 11A, effective upon compliance with Ordinance No. 273. (new position)
  • Ethan Bryce Floyd, Full-Time Firefighter/EMT, Range 11, effective upon compliance with Ordinance No. 273. (new position)
  • Houston Keith Conger, Full-Time Firefighter, Range 9, effective upon compliance with Ordinance No. 273. (new position)
• Consider action to approve the transition of the following: – Unanimously Approved
  • Sydney Michael Pointer, Full-Time Firefighter/EMT, Range 11, effective October 30, 2024. (new position) (Mr. Pointer is currently a Part-Time Firefighter/EMT)
• Consider action to approve the termination of the following: – Unanimously Approved
  • Zachery Kerr, Parks and Recreation Laborer, effective immediately.
• Consent Agenda – Unanimously Approved
  • Budget Amendment Requests.
  • Purchases Over $7,500.00.
  • Disposition of Surplus Property.
  • Destruction of Records.
•  Public comments for general items.
  • Elizabeth Rae introduced herself as the new Student Government Association (SGA) community ambassador from Jacksonville State University. She encouraged attendees to reach out to her during meetings if they have anything they would like communicated to the SGA.
• Council Member Remarks.
  • Councilmember Andy Green acknowledged National First Responders Day and expressed gratitude to all first responders and their departments for their service during crises and community events, like Officer Reagan’s engagement with local youth. He mentioned upcoming community safety classes offered by the fire department and praised their life-saving initiatives.Green congratulated the Jacksonville High School cross-country teams, noting that the girls’ team was the runner-up and the boys finished fourth in the county championship. He also celebrated the football team’s consistent success, as they qualified for the High School Athletic Association playoffs for the 13th consecutive year, highlighting the positive impact on the entire school community, including the band and cheerleaders.

    He thanked Chief Barton for attending and acknowledged the recognition of the Council and Mayor during a recent event. Finally, he inquired about the upcoming football game, confirming that Jacksonville High School would play at Anniston on Friday, and the first playoff game would be on the road.

  • Councilmember Tony Taylor mentioned that Ms. Grant was absent from the meeting due to a family issue and requested that everyone keep her and her family in their thoughts and prayers.
• Mayor’s report. – The Mayor acknowledged that the announcer at the football game does a great job, and that was all he had to share.
• Any Other Business. – None
• Adjournment. – Unanimously Approved