PIEDMONT, AL – The Piedmont City Council addressed a wide range of city business Tuesday night, including preparations to replace the city’s Parks and Recreation Director, who is resigning effective April 1.
City officials announced plans to begin advertising for a new Parks and Recreation Director. The position will be posted for 10 to 14 days in hopes of attracting qualified candidates with professional training or significant experience in parks and recreation management. Council members emphasized the importance of finding someone who understands the full scope of the department, including the sports complex, city trails, and all recreational facilities.
Economic development through ecotourism was also a major topic of discussion. Council members reported on a recent community meeting that drew strong attendance from business owners and local leaders interested in promoting Piedmont’s outdoor resources. Officials discussed the possibility of adding signage along the bike trail to help direct visitors to downtown restaurants and shops, as well as reviving a previously stalled signage project in coordination with Calhoun County.
Financial matters were also addressed during the meeting. The council approved $583,946.83 in combined regular expenses and payroll. Routine business included approval of prior meeting minutes and authorization for Mayor Kevin Farmer to serve as the city’s voting delegate at the upcoming Alabama League of Municipalities meeting in Montgomery, with Councilman Carlos Farmer serving as alternate.
Fire Chief Todd Kirkland reported that the department responded to 61 calls during the month of January and noted that call volume is expected to increase as warmer weather approaches. Kirkland also provided updates on several grants. USDA paperwork is underway for a new fire truck, though delivery is expected toward the end of the year due to production timelines. Additional equipment grants for thermal imagers and gas meters are also in progress.
The Piedmont Library reported strong activity in January, with 949 total circulations, 10 new members, nearly 100 new books added, and eight public events drawing 191 attendees.
In other business, the city announced plans to seek bids for grass-cutting services for the trail and cemetery. Officials are also awaiting a formal animal control agreement from the county. Meanwhile, a grant application is being prepared ahead of a March 31 deadline to seek funding for upgrades at the City Center park.
