At the start of the regular meeting the mayor invited Sam Bailey and community representatives to present local contributions to city recreation facilities. The Miracle League group announced a $40,000 donation to resurface the Miracle League field at West Ridge. "They're donating $40,000 towards the resurfacing of the Miracle League field," Sam said; the mayor and council thanked the group and pledged to maintain the facility.

Shortly after, Christy Smith, president of the Opelika Pickleball Club, told the council the club is donating $50,000 to upgrade lighting on the city's courts. City officials noted the city currently has 24 completed covered and lighted courts and is working on nine more; the donation will fund additional lighting upgrades.

Eagle Scout project: Nicholas Brock, an Opelika High School senior and Eagle Scout candidate, requested permission to construct a Gaga ball pit at Covington Park as his project. Brock described the project as both a learning and community service opportunity and estimated materials would cost about $1,300. City staff present said they had visited the site, identified a location at Covington Park, and found the proposal to be a positive asset to the park; no formal vote on a final permit was recorded in the transcript.

Public comment highlights: Maddie Clark urged the council to inspect and address visibly deteriorated housing and check on elderly residents; Bradley Hadden, representing Top Chef Alternatives, urged the council to clarify or remove a moratorium affecting small businesses and said uncertainty through Dec. 15 is harming business planning.

What happens next: Staff will coordinate with donors and project organizers on implementation and with the Eagle Scout candidate regarding site use and any permits required. The moratorium and housing complaints will be referred for staff follow-up per normal procedures.