OHATCHEE, AL — The Ohatchee Town Council discussed the possibility of bringing a Scouting America program to the community and approved several municipal business items during its meeting Tuesday, Aug. 11.
Representatives from Scouting America attended a work session before the regular meeting to discuss establishing a Cub Scout pack in Ohatchee. Vance Lenon, a district executive with Scouting America, told council members the organization is seeking a local organization willing to serve as the chartering organization for a new pack.
Under the proposal, the Town of Ohatchee could serve as the charter organization and provide a location for weekly meetings. Scouting America representatives and local volunteers would handle the program’s day-to-day operations. The town would have a role in approving volunteers and could appoint a representative to work with the pack.
The proposed family pack would serve boys and girls in kindergarten through fifth grade, with organizers hoping to begin the program during the current school year. Lenon said Scouting America has identified interest among youth in the area, including children who have traveled to Weaver and Jacksonville to participate in scouting activities.
Council members also discussed the possibility of eventually establishing a troop for older students if sufficient interest exists. Scouting representatives said a minimum of three youth and three adults is required to begin a troop.
According to Lenon, adult participants are required to undergo criminal background checks and complete youth safety training. He also said insurance is provided through Scouting America.
The town would be responsible for providing meeting space and would typically cover a $100 charter fee for the first year. Once established, the pack could become largely self-supporting through membership fees and fundraising activities.
No formal action was taken on the scouting proposal during the meeting. Town officials said they would review the information and consider potential meeting locations before responding to Scouting America. Council members discussed several possible locations, including using the council room initially and addressing additional storage needs if the program grows.
During the regular meeting, the council unanimously approved the town’s Rebuild Alabama Act transportation plan for 2027. Officials said the plan must be submitted by Aug. 31. The town has received $26,291 through Rebuild Alabama funding so far this year, with some of the funding previously used as a match for work on River Road.
The council also approved moving the town’s office phone service from Verizon Business to AT&T Business. Officials said the cost would remain relatively similar while providing new equipment and anticipated improvements in service and customer support. The town also plans to transition police officers to AT&T FirstNet.
Town officials additionally discussed ongoing work on the municipal budget. Mayor Todd Eubanks said he has been reviewing revenues and expenses and expects to provide council members with updated budget information around Sept. 1. He said the town remains in a strong financial position while noting that existing budget figures need to be updated to more accurately reflect current revenues and expenses.
Economic development was also discussed. Eubanks said O’Reilly Auto Parts remains committed to locating in Ohatchee, although the eventual site has not been finalized. He said the company would prefer an existing building but could ultimately construct a new location. The town is also continuing efforts to attract additional retail and restaurant development.
The council concluded the meeting after addressing additional community updates and upcoming activities.
