Jacksonville, AL – The Jacksonville City Council convened for a special called worksession at 5:001 pm to interview candatite for the vacant city council seat. This worsession was followed bu t the regually schedlued work session and city coucnil meeting at 6:00 p.m. on JFebuary 10th, 2025.
Special Called Work Session
As Jacksonville residents prepare to choose a new City Council member, the interviews conducted on February 11, 2025, revealed not just the qualifications of the candidates but also their personal stories and visions for the community. This detailed overview will highlight the backgrounds, engagement strategies, and pressing issues identified by each candidate.
Marques Green
Marques Green shared his deep connection to Jacksonville, describing it as the place where he has spent half of his life. Originally from Abbeville, Alabama, he came to Jacksonville to attend JSU, fell in love with the area, and chose to plant his roots. Green is a homeowner, small business owner, and rents property in the city. He is passionate about contributing to the community, whether through coaching kids, engaging in local churches, or just being present in places like Walmart or the community center. He emphasized the importance of face-to-face communication and being a positive influence in the city.
Regarding engaging with residents, Green outlined three ways: holding public forums, going door-to-door, and having one-on-one conversations. He believes that personal, eye-to-eye interactions foster more meaningful discussions, especially when people may hesitate to speak in larger forums.
When asked about pressing issues facing Jacksonville, Green pointed to the need for more recreational activities and events, especially ones that are affordable. He suggested that the city could host more community events, similar to the popular 4th of July celebration, to bring people together and offer free, enjoyable experiences. He also acknowledged the challenges of budgeting and real estate but is hopeful that such initiatives could be possible.
Green concluded by sharing his extensive experience in sports and coaching, along with his career in federal government management. He reassured the audience that if elected, he would work hard for the people of Jacksonville, always striving to be a positive force in the community. His commitment is to shine a light on others and be the change he wants to see.
Jimmy Harrell
Candidate Harrell shared his background, discussing his return to Jacksonville after time away and his personal ties to the community. He highlighted his young family and the challenges he faced finding suitable residential housing upon his return.
“I moved away from Jacksonville and came back. A lot has changed, obviously. I’m happy to be back in town and honored to have this opportunity,” Harrell stated.
Harrell identified healthcare access and residential housing as two of the city’s most pressing issues. He noted concerns about emergency responders being delayed due to limited hospital bed availability, which strains local resources. Additionally, he emphasized the need for more residential housing options beyond rental properties, encouraging development in line with Jacksonville’s comprehensive plan.
“I think we can address that by going back to the comprehensive plan and encouraging additional residential buildings outside of just rental properties,” he said.
Harrell also stressed the importance of keeping residents informed and engaged, mentioning town hall meetings and continued use of digital platforms like YouTube to increase transparency and communication.
James Hodge
Candidate James Hodge also stepped forward to introduce himself. Originally from Kentucky, Hodge moved to Jacksonville through his military service and later joined the Jacksonville Police Department. He and his family decided to stay in Jacksonville, and his children have gone through the local school system.
“I’ve always enjoyed helping out with the city and wanted to contribute more through this opportunity,” Hodge stated.
When asked how he would engage with residents, Hodge emphasized the importance of direct community interaction.
“Just getting out and talking to people, attending city events, sports games, and gatherings at Jacksonville State University—it’s about being present and listening,” he explained.
Regarding key city issues, Hodge pointed to budget management and city beautification as two areas needing attention.
“Budgets are a challenge everywhere, but I think there are ways we can be more efficient,” he said. “And while I know the city has already done a lot, I believe there’s more we can do to enhance Jacksonville’s overall appearance.”
In his closing remarks, Hodge expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be considered.
“I’ve thought about this for a while, and I appreciate the chance to see if this is something I’m truly called to do,” he said. “I enjoy being in the community and engaging with people. That’s where my focus would be.”
Dr. Kevin Hoult
Candidate Dr. Kevin Hoult emphasized the importance of open dialogue and resident engagement in city governance. When asked to share something not included in his resume, Hoult spoke about his deep-rooted connections to Jacksonville, having moved from Hartselle, Alabama to attend college at Jacksonville State University where he would meet his wife. They have been married for 23 years have two children—one attending Jacksonville State University and another at Jacksonville High School. “Jacksonville has been our home for many years,” Hoult said. “We’ve moved away a couple of times, but we always come back because we love this community.” Hoult identified business development and community engagement as his key priorities. He stressed the importance of maintaining a vibrant downtown square, ensuring local businesses thrive, and creating more opportunities for residents to interact with city leadership.
“Engagement is about communication. You have to listen to what people need and be open to their ideas,” he said. “Whether it’s through public forums, direct conversations, or attending local events, I believe that’s the key to a stronger Jacksonville.”
James Newell
Candidate James Newell shared that he grew up in Jacksonville, attending Jacksonville Elementary, High School, and Jacksonville State University. He expressed a deep love for the city, having had lasting friendships and a fulfilling life here. James has been married for 49 years and has two sons and five grandchildren. He is actively involved in his church, serving as chairman of the deacons, while his wife is an avid quilter.
When discussing engagement with residents, James emphasized the importance of small group interactions, as they allow people to be more open and share their concerns, which helps in understanding individual needs. Regarding pressing issues for the city, James pointed to potential improvements for Jacksonville’s square, citing a museum in Natala as an inspiration. He also suggested business incubators for vacant buildings and new manufacturing opportunities in empty spaces to stimulate growth.
In his closing remarks, James reiterated his passion for Jacksonville, highlighting his desire to see the city continue improving. He emphasized the need for stronger engagement between the citizens and the city, advocating for open conversations to foster better relationships.
George Salmon
Candidate George Salmon, a 14-year resident of Jacksonville, spoke about his positive experiences in the city, particularly with the school system and local infrastructure. He emphasized the importance of fiscal responsibility and maintaining the city’s growth, noting that his family plans to remain in Jacksonville after his children graduate.
Regarding resident engagement, George mentioned that after announcing his candidacy, he received many opinions, with one common concern being the need for a stand-alone emergency facility in the city. He acknowledged the good work of local EMTs but highlighted that residents must travel 20-25 minutes for hospital care.
When discussing pressing issues, George mentioned his involvement with the Industrial Development Board, where efforts are being made to revitalize the Eastwood community and Mill Village. He reiterated the importance of building up infrastructure and establishing an emergency facility.
In his closing remarks, George expressed gratitude to others who applied for the position and pledged to donate his salary, if appointed, back to the school system for the remainder of the term.
Marita Watson
Candidate Marita Watson started her statement by thanking the council for the opportunity to participate in the interview, acknowledging the passion and commitment required to serve in this role. She also expressed her belief that using her God-given abilities to serve others is a responsibility she holds dear. Watson explained that she had been reflecting on how best to serve in this position and was eager to contribute positively to the city of Jacksonville.
Regarding engaging with residents, Watson emphasized that no single person can make decisions for the entire council. She explained that decisions should be made collaboratively, with a focus on understanding and discussing the concerns of the community. Watson stressed the importance of working as a team and seeking consensus when making decisions that affect the city.
When asked about the most pressing issues facing Jacksonville, Watson identified the lack of sidewalks as a significant challenge. She described how, currently, there are areas of the city where residents must walk along roadsides, which can be dangerous. Watson suggested that the city could start addressing this issue by seeking grants and gradually phasing in sidewalk construction. She proposed a plan where a set number of yards or miles of sidewalk could be added each year based on the city’s budget. This would help ensure that people can safely walk from their homes to key locations like schools, businesses, or simply for exercise.
Watson also made a lighthearted comment about how frequently she has raised the issue of sidewalks at council meetings, joking that she had discussed it so many times she lost count. This showed her deep commitment to this cause.
In addition to her focus on sidewalks, Watson spoke about her approach to teamwork. She explained that while she values collaboration, she does not simply agree with others for the sake of it. She is not afraid to ask questions or express her opinions, but once a decision is made by the group, she believes that all members must support it, regardless of personal views. This illustrates her understanding of the importance of unity and collective decision-making in governance.
At the conclusion of her remarks, Watson reiterated her gratitude for the opportunity to speak and for the time and consideration of the council.
City Council’s Next Step in Decision-Making
During the meeting, council members discussed the process of narrowing down the pool of candidates for a position. Acknowledging the challenges of the decision-making process, they emphasized the importance of efficiently narrowing down the choices. Council members agreed that a consensus would need to be reached on how to proceed. They proposed that the council vote on ranking the seven candidates from one to seven at the next meeting. The top two or three candidates would then be selected for further consideration.
Key Points Discussed:
- Ranking Candidates: Council members discussed a plan to rank the seven candidates for the position during the next meeting, using a scoring system to identify the top candidates.
- Narrowing the Field: The goal was to reduce the pool of candidates to the top two or three for in-depth interviews. The council also discussed the possibility of conducting a second round of scoring if needed.
- Mayor’s Role in Case of Deadlock: In the event of a tie or deadlock, the mayor would make the final decision, with the council agreeing to respect and approve the mayor’s choice.
- Deadline for Decision: The council noted that a decision needed to be made before March 29th, and they agreed to meet again on the 10th to finalize their ranking and further deliberations.
- Final Decision Process: If scoring remained close, council members were open to the idea of revisiting the rankings and conducting further rounds of voting until the top candidates were clearly identified.
This plan set the stage for a more streamlined decision-making process and a clear path forward for the next council meeting.
Regular Work Session and City Council Meeting
- Call to order.
- Invocation:
- Pledge of Allegiance.
- Roll call.
- Proclamation: Black History Month, February 2025.
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Mayor Smith of Jacksonville officially proclaimed February 2025 as Black History Month in the city, acknowledging the significant role African Americans have played in shaping the history and progress of the United States. The theme for Black History Month 2025 is “African Americans and Labor,” highlighting the contributions of African Americans in the workforce, labor movements, and the continued struggle for equal rights and justice.
In the proclamation, Mayor Smith encourages residents to take this time to reflect on and become more knowledgeable about Black heritage. The observance also serves as an opportunity to honor the many Black leaders who have made significant strides toward the nation’s advancement, particularly in the areas of civil rights, racial equality, and human dignity.
The proclamation underscores the importance of unity, recognizing that as a nation, we are stronger when we come together as one, regardless of race, ethnicity, or background. It calls on the citizens of Jacksonville to use this month to further support the principles of justice, equality, and the common goal of a unified nation under God.
Mayor Smith signed the proclamation on February 10, 2025, urging all residents of Jacksonville to participate in this important observance and continue working toward a more just and inclusive future.
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- Work Session:
- Acceptance of Minutes.
- Temporary Road Closure of 2nd Avenue, NE – Jerome Baker.
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Jerome Baker from PSC Construction addressed the need for a temporary closure of 2nd Avenue in Jacksonville to allow for stormwater conveyance upgrades and the reworking of a sanitary sewer line. The work will include installing a new stormwater system, which will involve significant excavation, with trenches up to 30 feet wide and 6 feet deep. The project is expected to affect both storm drainage and other utilities, including gas and water lines, which will be temporarily rerouted.
Baker outlined the plans to keep the disruption minimal for residents, noting that one-way traffic will be maintained where possible. However, some inconvenience will be experienced by those traveling on nearby streets, such as Seventh Avenue, which will be affected by the closure. The construction site will be marked with fencing and proper signage to ensure safety.
The work is expected to take approximately 60 days, with a focus on improving stormwater flow and drainage in the area, doubling the stormwater carrying capacity. The new system will be sized similarly to the current setup, but with upgraded infrastructure to better handle rainwater and prevent flooding upstream.
Baker also clarified that the drainage upgrades will not result in additional water being diverted into nearby areas, including properties on the east and south sides. In addition, the parking lot area will be reworked, with a new detention pond being installed to help manage rainfall and mitigate potential flooding.
The construction team will notify local residents and businesses, including the nearby church and student housing, about the closure and ongoing work. The project is seen as necessary for long-term infrastructure improvements in the area, and Baker assured that efforts will be made to minimize disruptions, especially for the residents and businesses directly impacted by the closure.
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- Confidentiality Agreement – Tim Smith.
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Tim Smith presented a Confidentiality Agreement proposal to the mayor, aiming to bolster the city’s position in three key areas: liability protection, regulatory compliance, and cybersecurity insurance requirements. The agreement would serve as a baseline template for future contracts with vendors and contractors who have access to city data, ensuring they understand their obligations to maintain confidentiality.
Smith emphasized that while the contract itself is not complex, it provides a record of the vendor’s commitment to safeguarding city data and using it solely for city operations. He also suggested reaching out to current vendors to establish similar agreements. Additionally, Smith noted that such agreements would support grant opportunities related to technology, enhancing the city’s standing in best practices.
The council expressed support for the proposal, and Smith offered to act as a liaison to initiate discussions with current vendors.
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- First Due (Locality Media) Amendment to Agreement – Keith Kadle (absent).
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Mayor Smith introduced an amendment to the agreement with the fire department, specifically regarding the software they use for fire and DMS reports. The fire department is satisfied with the software for fire reports but has encountered confusion concerning the DMS reports, which are required for state reporting. As a result, they would like to remove the DMS reporting function from the software.
There was a brief discussion about the matter, but no immediate questions or concerns were raised from the council members.
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- Fire Truck – Keith Kadle. – Skipped due to Chief Kadle not being present
- Assistant Building Inspector Job Description – Joy Seijo.
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The Assistant Building Inspector job description has undergone revisions over time, with the most recent change aimed at widening the pool of applicants. Initially, the job required one to three years of experience in building construction, electrical, or plumbing. However, due to a limited number of qualified applicants, the requirement has been adjusted to allow candidates with experience in any of the three areas, rather than all. This change aims to attract more potential applicants.
The position involves responsibilities such as identifying unlicensed construction work and conducting property inspections. The department anticipates increased construction activity when the weather improves, and having two people in a vehicle for inspections will allow for more effective monitoring.
Despite the revised requirements, the city has kept the pay scale the same as it was previously, even though they recognize that they may not be able to compete with homebuilders in terms of salary. They hope to attract younger candidates who are willing to gain experience on the job.
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- Establishment of Health Care Committee.
- Mayor Smith discussed the establishment of a Health Care Committee and the possibility of stacking health care authorities, emphasizing that it seems necessary for everyone to have access to healthcare. He mentioned that the group is looking into this and that he will need some time to retrieve relevant records and review policies before providing further details. The mayor expressed his intention to gather the necessary information and bring it back for further discussion in the future. One speaker supported this approach, mentioning that other groups have been working on similar information.
- Any other business.
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Patricia Daingle provided an update on the improvement of Jacksonville’s welcome signs. She shared that a grant was applied for last year, requesting $2,500 from Alabama Power and additional funds from JSU and the City Council. The funds would be used for refurbishing two existing signs and constructing a new one on Highway 204. The refurbishment is estimated at $2,860, while the new sign would cost $8,400. However, JSU is not providing funds due to their own signage plans.
Daingle mentioned that they received $1,800 from Alabama Power and are considering using the city’s budget to cover the remaining cost. She proposed a more affordable option for the new sign on 204, potentially with a less elaborate design. The signs would be updated with new seals, repainted, and enhanced lighting, possibly solar-powered. Additionally, the school board has committed to helping with landscaping, and PARD will assist with fixing the lighting issues.
There was a discussion about the condition of the current signs, which are 25 years old and in poor shape. Some members suggested replacing the sign on 204 quickly, as it is no longer in good condition, and it does not project the best image of the city. There was also talk about the potential for further signage improvements and collaboration with JSU and other local entities.
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- Adoption of minutes. – Unanimously Approved
- Adoption of agenda. – Unanimously Approved with changes
- Item 20 was revised to include a motion to adjourn into executive session under Alabama Code Section 36-25A-61 to discuss general matters.
- Item A was added to increase account number 10-03-6202-00-60144 by $40,044.04 for insurance purposes.
- Item 16 was updated to include purchases over $7,500.
- Item 5 was modified, but further details were not provided.
- Public comments concerning agenda items. – None
- Consideration of Resolution No. R-2239-25 regarding Temporary Closure of Second Avenue, NE between Roebuck Waters Street, NE and Eighth Street, NE. – Unanimously Approved
- Consider action to authorize the Mayor to sign the Confidentiality Agreement with Municipal Technology Services, LLC. – Unanimously Approved
- Consider action to approve Amendment No. 1 to Agreement for Services with First Due (Locality Media) to the original agreement executed on October 1, 2022. – Unanimously Approved
- Consider action to approve the employment of the following: – Unanimously Approved
- Jacob Haynes, Laborer in Utility Maintenance, Range 1, effective February 12, 2025, due to the promotion of Charles Campbell. (Mr. Haynes is currently a temporary Laborer)
- Jennifer Thrash, Recreation Park/Playground Specialist, Range 10, effective upon compliance with Ordinance No. 273. (new position)
- Philip Shaver, Laborer in PARD, effective upon compliance with Ordinance No. 273, due to the departure of Zach Kerr.
- Consider action to approve the promotion of the following: – Unanimously Approved
- Steven Scott Diggs, Recreation Park/Playground Assistant, Range 3, effective upon employment start date of Recreation Park/Playground Specialist. (Mr. Diggs is currently a Laborer in PARD) (new position)
- Consent Agenda – Unanimously Approved
- Budget Amendments.
- Purchases over $7,500.00.
- Requests to Attend Conference/Training Session with Costs Exceeding $1,000.00.
- Disposition of Surplus Property.
- Records Destruction.
- Boards/Committees.
- Public comments for general items. – None
- Council Member Remarks. – None
- Mayor’s report.
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- A dinner and dance party is scheduled for Valentine’s Day (February 14th).
- Recognition of Black History Month, with a proclamation made earlier in the meeting.
- Take Pride in Jacksonville event on April 19th, encouraging residents to clean out their homes and storage buildings. A $100 prize will be awarded to the group participating in the event.The Mayor’s report highlighted several upcoming events:
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- Any Other Business.
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City Councilmember Andy Green discussed the regional tournament taking place in Jacksonville, mentioning that both the boys’ and girls’ teams will play at 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM on Friday. He emphasized the significance of having both teams participating and praised Jacksonville City Schools for hosting the event, noting the positive impact it would have on the city with visitors coming in. Green suggested the idea of dynamic signage to welcome visitors for the tournament, enhancing the city’s hospitality.
Superintendent Barber added a note of pride in the recent county spelling bee victory, congratulating Hannah Bagwelland the other top spellers. He also highlighted the success of the bass team, specifically the junior group, which won on Saturday, celebrating the positive achievements of the school district.
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- Adjournment to Executive Session – Unanimously Approved
