Council approves Parks & Recreation staffing changes; residents express concerns and session moved to closed door

The Hartselle City Council approved two personnel actions affecting Parks & Recreation and Development and heard related public comment before adjourning to an executive session.

HR Manager Tiffany Caudill presented a new job description for a Concession Shift Leader intended to strengthen shift leadership for concession staff; Council Member Mike Swafford moved to approve and Council Member Austin Baker seconded; the motion passed by unanimous voice vote.

Ms. Caudill and Mayor Missy Evans also reviewed a draft job description for a Strategic Initiatives and External Affairs Manager within the Development Department; Mayor Evans said the new role would report to the Development Director and work closely with the Mayor. Council Member Austin Baker suggested the duties might be split into two positions in the future. The Council approved the job description but Mayor Evans noted funding for the position would be addressed during the mid‑year budget review.

During public comment, Rajane Johnson raised concerns regarding issues in Parks & Recreation and Michael Lazar spoke about Hartselle Youth Football. The Council did not take immediate action on those comments at the meeting.

City Attorney Larry Madison announced that an executive session was necessary to discuss a matter that could result in litigation; Council Member Mike Swafford moved to adjourn the regular meeting and enter executive session at 7:54 p.m. without reconvening; the motion carried unanimously.