Fort Payne City Council met Oct. 20, 2026. Council approved routine minutes and bills, authorized bid release for a sewer relocation tied to an ALDOT arrestor-bed project, appointed two DC Gas board members, approved a donated floor resurfacing contract for Bread of Life in the city auditorium, announced a water-board application window, discussed a proposed retiree insurance buyout for 25-year employees (first reading), approved a temporary street closure for 2nd Baptist Church, and entered an executive session on economic development (no action).

Discussion Points

•Application dates and interview schedule for Water Works board seat
•Clarification that the immediate project is sewer relocation for ALDOT work
•Current practice: city covers one month of single coverage per year of service for 25-year retirees
•Estimated relocation cost described as approximate by engineer
•Explanation of plurality block voting process and handling of tied votes
•Four bids received; Smith Brothers Concrete low at $16,500
•Funds provided by donor group; city must approve due to property ownership
•Need for clear paperwork to prevent later disputes
•Police confirmed feasibility of closure and traffic routing
•Proposed option: allow a buyout (described in meeting as ~"$250 per month per year service") instead of continued city coverage
•Safety concerns for children crossing in festival area
•Whether the city must pay up front and await ALDOT reimbursement

Decisions

•Approve low bid and authorize city to contract
•Council voted to release the work for bids with provision to reject unsuitable bids
•First reading only; no vote on policy change at this meeting
•Hank Cobble and Tina Potter appointed to DC Gas board
•Temporary street closure approved
•Timeline established for appointment process

Directions

•Authorize mayor to request bids; staff to verify reimbursement procedure and scope before award
•Clerk/staff to execute contracting steps and process reimbursement
•Clerk to record votes and prepare appointment paperwork
•HR to draft a resolution for council review at the first November meeting
•Police to provide barricades and direct traffic on Oct. 28
•Staff to open application Nov. 1 and schedule interviews in November and December

Sep

Fort Payne City Council 09/15/2026

Fort Payne City Council met on September 15, 2026. Council approved sewer and sanitation rate changes, adopted a new R1A zoning district on a 3–2 vote, approved tax abatements for Project VJD, passed the FY2027 budget, granted an alcohol license transfer, discussed small-cell installations with Verizon and a proposed T‑Mobile tower on city land, and agreed to draft a resolution for a civic-club sign on Highway 35.

Discussion Points

•Appropriations cut by ~8% from $722,000 to $665,000; intended to produce a general-fund surplus.
•Company proposed a 100x100 ft site and a roughly 200-foot tower behind Glenwood Cemetery; staff said it would require renderings, conditional-use approval, and a removal bond.
•Council asked about visual impact, right-of-way placement, and the permit/conditional-use process.
•Council discussed lease terms (approx. $9,600/year), length of lease and bond amounts for potential removal costs.
•Council requested a resolution draft for next meeting and to check sign‑ordinance language.
•Debate focused on whether R1A duplicates existing R1/R2 options and on buffer/periphery requirements.
•directions[]
•Directions: City staff to finalize licensing paperwork.
•Directions: Proceed with implementation and acknowledge department contributions.
•New ownership at existing location; alcohol board recommended approval.
•Presentation detailed estimated abated taxes and affirmed protections for school taxes; presenter clarified this particular investment does not create immediate new jobs at the Galt Avenue plant.
•Proposal for city‑owned Highway 35 civic-club sign funded by five civic organizations; staff to confirm ordinance compatibility.
•Representatives requested preapproval of four candidate locations to allow engineering studies to proceed.
•Staff and chair presented rationale that commercial increases were reduced to 5% while residential remains 3% to balance revenue and affordability.

Decisions

•FY2027 budget adopted unanimously
•License transfer accepted and to be processed by city clerk
•Ordinance 20 26-12 adopted (3–2 roll-call)
•Ordinance 20 26-18 adopted (voice vote)
•Resolution 20 26-25 approved by voice vote

Directions

•Staff to accept engineering studies and return formal construction drawings for council or zoning-board consideration.
•Staff to draft a resolution for the first October meeting and to review off-premise sign ordinance language.
•Staff to obtain renderings and lease details and present to the zoning board for conditional-use review.

Sep

Fort Payne City Council 09/15/2026

Fort Payne City Council on Sept. 15 approved a 2027 general fund budget, adopted two ordinances including a new R1A zoning district and reduced commercial sewer rate increases to 5%, authorized tax abatements for a $2.6 million Valley Joist & Deck equipment investment, and discussed cellphone infrastructure and a civic-club sign project.

Discussion Points

•Alcohol board approved the transfer at its meeting and staff described the change as ownership transfer at the same location.
•Council asked about visual impact, single-carrier use (these poles would serve Verizon only), and next steps.
•Council asked staff and legal counsel to verify the off-premise sign ordinance implications before authorization.
•Council clarified that the particular investment did not itself create jobs at that site though the company employs about 145 across two plants.
•Council described rationales for lowering the commercial increase to 5% and keeping residential at 3%.
•Council moved to accept the transfer and approved it by vote.
•Council thanked department heads and noted this could be the first general-fund year 'in the black' in several years.
•Dr. Johnson detailed a $2.6 million machinery investment at the Gault Avenue plant and estimated abatement amounts for sales/use and property taxes.
•Five civic clubs volunteered to pay for the sign; sign to be installed on city property outside ALDOT right-of-way.
•SmartLink said small-cell poles will improve coverage and support fixed wireless; three of four candidate sites currently lack utility poles.
•Staff quoted an approximate lease payment of $9,600/year and said renderings will be prepared for zoning review.
•Staff reported an 8% reduction in appropriations from prior proposal and that the revised general fund is $665,000.
•Supporters said R1A reduces lot-size threshold to 10,500 sq ft from 15,000 and maintains a 1,100 sq ft house minimum; opponents preferred R1 or R2 options.
•T-Mobile requested a 100-by-100 foot site behind Glenwood Cemetery; city staff noted requirement for conditional-use approval and a removal bond.

Decisions

•Council gave informal approval to proceed with renderings and zoning materials.
•Council gave non-binding pre-approval to proceed with studies.
•FY2027 budget adopted unanimously.
•License transfer approved; paperwork to be completed by staff.
•Ordinance 2026-12 adopted 3–2.
•Ordinance 2026-18 adopted; staff to implement new rates.
•Resolution 2026-25 adopted; abatement proceeds as presented.
•Resolution to be prepared; no final vote taken at Sept. 15 meeting.

Directions

•Clerk to finalize transfer paperwork and update registry.
•Finance to publish adopted budget and proceed with appropriation implementation.
•Planning staff to update maps and process applications under R1A where appropriate.
•SmartLink to perform surveys and provide construction drawings for formal permitting and future council consideration.
•Staff to accept renderings and forward conditional-use materials to the zoning board; lease negotiations to follow if zoning approval is obtained.
•Staff to draft a resolution for the first October meeting and confirm ordinance compliance.
•Staff to finalize the abatement agreement and protect educational taxes as required by Alabama law.
•Staff to update billing schedules and post ordinance on the city website.

Aug

Fort Payne City County 08/18/26 Fort Payne City County 08/18/26

The Fort Payne City Council met on August 18, 2026. Councilors heard citizen comments and Planning staff presentations on a proposed R1A residential zoning district and several zoning amendments, approved a rezoning for an ammunition manufacturer, unanimously raised the city lodging tax by $0.04 (earmarked for recreation), and took a series of other routine actions including surplusing vehicles and denying a business license application.

Discussion Points

•Applicant described site location, scale, and workforce expectations; council asked about firing range and storefront plans.
•Council noted the CDA account balance (approx. $42,000) and that the entity has been dormant for years.
•Directions included earmarking to recreation projects but preserving council discretion on future allocations.
•Draft removes broad 'electronics' permissive language, adds electronics component manufacturers and accessory data center definitions; M1 would allow accessory data centers for on‑property company use; M2 would treat data centers and energy storage as conditional uses with studies and enforceable conditions.
•Dr. Brett Johnson advocated maintaining the CDA as a tool for future development including hotel projects; other council members cited existing boards and potential litigation history tied to the CDA.
•Planning staff described R1A as 1,100 sq ft minimum house size and 10,500 sq ft lot minimum in some cases; infrastructure costs make development challenging; residents requested buffering and landscaping standards.
•Proposal keeps one-acre minimum and 200-foot separation but adds age limitation (10 years or newer) for manufactured homes entering rural farm areas; owner-occupied replacements after disasters would be permitted.
•Staff and council cited concerns related to prior issues at the Rusty Barrel address; applicant may pursue hearing procedures per ordinance.
•Staff estimated ~ $100,000 revenue per 1¢ increase; council debated 2¢–4¢ options and competitive positioning relative to nearby cities.

Decisions

•Business license application denied by unanimous vote.
•First reading held; no vote to adopt.
•First reading only; no vote to adopt.
•Motion passed unanimously to increase the city lodging tax by $0.04 and earmark proceeds toward recreation.
•Motion to dissolve failed to get a second; motion to table the item passed unanimously.
•Motion to table ordinance 2026-12 passed; no final zoning change adopted.
•Rezoning motion carried; ordinance advanced.

Directions

•Applicant to follow up with City Hall for permitting.
•City staff to notify applicant and outline ordinance steps for appeal/hearing.
•Planning staff to draft buffer/landscaping language and present in a work session or next meeting.
•Public copies at City Hall; citizen participation scheduled Sept. 1.
•Staff to prepare additional analysis of CDA functions, finances and options for reappointment vs. dissolution.
•Staff to prepare resolution that implements the 4¢ increase and specify earmarking language for recreation capital projects.

Aug

Fort Payne City County 08/18/26 Fort Payne City County 08/18/26

Fort Payne City Council met Aug. 18 to consider a new R1A zoning district (tabled), approve a rezoning of property on Wallace Avenue for light industrial use, hold first readings on data-center/battery-storage and manufactured-home ordinances, and approve a 4-cent lodging-tax increase earmarked for recreation.

Discussion Points

•Applicant was manager at prior business at same address; staff and police cited unresolved circumstances.
•Brad reviewed what a CDA can accomplish and cited examples from other municipalities.
•Conditional uses will require environmental and noise studies and allow revocation if conditions breached.
•Council debated 2–4 cents, marketing, and earmarking.
•Council emphasized different standards for business-license approval vs criminal proceedings.
•Council verified location, distance from road, and potential employees.
•Each penny estimated at ~$100,000 (Grant).
•Nick Brown outlined lot/house minimums and development constraints; developers cited high infrastructure costs.
•Opposing members cited existing city authority under Amendment 772 and concerns about adding boards or funding inactive authorities.
•Owner described 10-acre site and possible expansion; no firing range planned.
•Residents requested buffers, landscaping, and protections for existing neighborhoods.
•Staff sought to narrow 'electronics' and add accessory data-center categories.
•Support for using revenue for recreation/rec center financing.

Decisions

•Adopt 4-cent lodging-tax increase, earmarked to recreation/city capital projects.
•Business-license application denied; applicant may pursue steps outlined in ordinance.
•Complete first reading; no final vote tonight.
•Matter tabled for future discussion.
•Ordinance 2026-12 tabled for further work.
•Rezoning to M1 Light Industrial adopted.

Directions

•Owner to follow permitting at city hall; planning to review impacts as part of permit process.
•Public to review printed draft; citizen participation set for Sept. 1.
•Return ordinance to work session or next meeting for reconsideration.
•Staff to bring ordinance back for further readings after public input.
•Staff to compile CDA records, bylaws and account balances and return information for council review.
•Staff to draft buffer and landscaping language and consider applying landscaping standards more widely.
•Staff to incorporate increase into budget and provide project recommendations for recreation and capital projects.
•Staff to notify applicant and follow municipal-code procedures for appeals/hearings.

Aug

Fort Payne City Council Meeting 8/4/2026 Fort Payne City Council Meeting 8/4/2026

Fort Payne City Council met Aug. 4, 2026. The council approved bids for new pickleball courts, held first readings on two zoning ordinances, approved several special-event requests, declared sanitation vehicles surplus, and voted unanimously to revoke the business license for the Rusty Barrel Saloon and Grub after a police-related hearing; an executive session followed.

Discussion Points

•ALDOT installing lights and continuing right-of-way work for a truck arrester bed; schedule possibly November–December depending on right-of-way acquisition.
•Attorney Chad Hopper relayed Chief Davis's testimony and said the business's attorney agreed in writing not to contest revocation.
•CED Mental Health requested a free public screening of Inside Out 2 at 6:30 p.m. on Aug. 7.
•Chief Davis testified at a noon hearing that criminal violations were occurring at the Rusty Barrel.
•Concrete was identified as the largest immediate cost and area of concern for site conditions.
•Council asked staff to include the 1,100 sq ft minimum in the ordinance text before the next meeting.
•Lighting for the courts was quoted at roughly $138,500 and will be considered later due to budget limits.
•Mayor announced Boom Days (Sept. 18–19) and said rec-center sale proceeds will fund a sanitation building.
•Owner intends an ammunition reloading/manufacturing business and mostly online sales initially.
•Property is about 12 acres but less than half may be buildable; it sits near the city limits.
•R1A would allow more homes per acre (four vs. three) and require city sewer for lots smaller than septic thresholds.
•Sisters of Strength requested a morning prayer and giveaway on Aug. 11.

Decisions

•Both special-event requests approved by council.
•Council approved the $288,500 bid for courts and walking path; lighting deferred.
•Council revoked the Rusty Barrel's business license immediately by unanimous vote.
•First reading held; no adoption vote taken.
•Ordinance advanced on first reading; second reading scheduled for Aug. 18.

Directions

•Staff to add the 1,100-square-foot requirement to the ordinance text.
•Staff to coordinate inspection requirements and return for further consideration on Aug. 18.
•Staff to handle event logistics and permitting.
•Staff to return with budget adjustments and schedule for phased work.

Aug

Fort Payne City Council Public Hearing 8/4/2026 Fort Payne City Council Public Hearing 8/4/2026

The Fort Payne City Council held a public hearing on Aug. 4, 2026, on a proposed revocation of the Rusty Barrel Saloon and Grub business license after the police chief reported an ongoing criminal investigation; the owner’s attorney submitted written consent to revocation and waived presence. The council adjourned the hearing and will take up the matter at the regular meeting at 12:30.

Discussion Points

•Police Chief Ben Davis testified he had information of alleged criminal activity at the Rusty Barrel and confirmed an ongoing investigation.
•Staff reported the owner’s attorney submitted written consent to revocation and waived appearance.

Decisions

•No formal decision on license revocation was made during the hearing; council adjourned the hearing to take up the matter at the regular meeting.

Directions

•Clerk/legal staff to place the revocation item on the regular council meeting agenda at 12:30 for council action.

Jul

Fort Payne City Council 7/21/26 Fort Payne City Council 7/21/26

Fort Payne City Council convened July 21, 2026. The council approved minutes and bills, awarded a surplus lot at 601 Sarah Lane to Alex Mitchell for $1,500, declared vehicles and equipment surplus for auction, approved an on‑premise alcohol license for Barrio Cantina LLC after amending the board recommendation, postponed a CWSRF loan representative designation and a sewer-expansion agreement pending ADEM review, and voted unanimously to enter an executive session to consider a possible business license revocation.

Discussion Points

•ALDOT Jordan Road/Airport Road/Highway 35 intersection project timeline (15–18 months).
•Chair described a late agenda item concerning an infraction by a Fort Payne business and the potential for license revocation.
•Chair listed the generators and police vehicles to be declared surplus.
•Council questioned on/off‑premise language in the alcohol board recommendation.
•Discrepancies were identified in the project/loan paperwork; mayor and staff will seek clarification from ADEM.
•Promotion of Main Street movie night and Boondays festival.
•Swiftwater Rescue Team deployment and expected demobilization.
•Two sealed bids tied at $1,500 for the surplus lot; staff contacted bidders and one rescinded.

Decisions

•Amendment carried; license approved on‑premise only.
•Council accepted Alex Mitchell's bid for $1,500.
•Council entered executive session; any action to be announced afterward.
•Items postponed until after ADEM clarification.
•Resolution 2026‑19 adopted; items to be auctioned.

Directions

•Accept the remaining high bid and proceed with administrative transfer.
•Amend approval to on‑premise only and forward corrected paperwork to ABC.
•Enter executive session to discuss details with legal counsel and police chief present.
•Meet with ADEM next Monday; return item to Aug. 4 meeting.
•Place surplus items on GovDeals auction platform.

Jul

Fort Payne City Council 7/21/26 Fort Payne City Council 7/21/26

Fort Payne City Council on July 21, 2026 approved minutes and several routine items, awarded a surplus property to Alex Mitchell, declared vehicles and equipment surplus, postponed an Alabama CWSRF loan resolution and related sewer work, approved an alcohol license for Buro Cantina LLC (amended to on-premises), and voted to enter executive session to consider a possible license revocation.

Discussion Points

•Chief said the alcohol board handled the review in line with prior practice.
•Clarity needed on loan application details; staff and mayor will meet with ADM.
•Clerk read the list of equipment and vehicles considered surplus.
•Clerk reported two tied bids at $1,500 and subsequent rescission by one bidder.
•Council affirmed that public attendees would be allowed to return and be informed of any action taken.
•Council confirmed use of GovDeals for auction.
•Council moved to accept remaining high bid.
•Council moved to ratify monthly bills.
•Council questioned 'on and off premises' wording and asked clerk to correct the packet.
•Mayor announced Main Street Movie Night and Boom Days entertainment lineup.
•Mayor updated council on ALDOT work at Jordan Road/Airport Road/Highway 35 and swiftwater rescue deployment.
•Presiding officer reported the applicant requested postponement and noted citizen opposition on Hope Drive.
•Related sewer expansion agreement with Lad Engineering deferred.
•There is an infraction involving a local business and the council may consider license revocation.

Decisions

•Adopted Resolution 2026-19 to declare items surplus.
•Amend recommendation to on-premise only and forward application.
•Award property to Alex Mitchell for $1,500.
•Bills ratified and will be paid.
•Entered executive session; no open-session outcome recorded at that time.
•Postponed to August 4.
•Rezoning request postponed; parcel remains R3.

Directions

•Clerk to send corrected paperwork to Alabama ABC.
•Enter executive session and consult with attorney and chief.
•Staff to meet with ADM and report back.

Jul

DeKalb County meeting minutes July 14, 2026

DeKalb County Commission approved moving forward with financing for a courthouse addition, adopted several election polling-place resolutions, approved local matching funds for a Fyffe road paving grant, amended the county transportation plan, approved multiple personnel changes across departments, and approved a radio system MOU amendment during its July 14, 2026 meeting at the DeKalb County Activities Building.

Discussion Points

•Acceptance of two resignations in the Sheriff’s Office and hiring a replacement.
•Approval of topographic and geotechnical studies to inform design.
•Authorization requested for County Administrator and Commission President to execute the MOU amendment.
•Commissioner Black moved to approve a $200,000 contribution.
•Community request to consolidate Grove Oak and Tenbroeck boxes to Kelly's Chapel.
•Debt overview for courthouse addition presented by Piper Sandler.
•Jail personnel changes including a termination, a promotion, several hires and shift moves.
•No bids received for Adamsburg Storm Shelter; plan to split into two bid packages.
•Presentation of SHIP contract for $5,000/year by Emily McCamy.
•Recommendation to enter an MOU to begin bond issuance work.
•Request for local matching funds for Town of Fyffe CDBG application to pave County Road 50.
•Request from Town of Kilpatrick to move polling site to new town hall.
•Request to accept resignation of Fort Payne Senior Center Manager Nadiya Rice and hire Francine 'Elaine' Hill.
•Request to add one additional P25 radio link from Little Tower in Cartersville to Wyatt Mountain Tower in Marshall County.
•Request to amend FY2026 County Transportation Plan to include five FAEF projects with itemized costs.
•Staff explanation of Act No. 2008-176 enabling voting centers.

Decisions

•Amendment to FY2026 County Transportation Plan approved with five projects and their approximate costs.
•Commission approved contributing $200,000 in matching funds for the Fyffe paving project.
•MOU with Piper Sandler approved to begin bond process (~$3.5M).
•P25 MOU amendment approved; added recurring cost $350 per month.
•Resignations and hires accepted; Eddie Jones promoted to sergeant; Adam West terminated; other hires/moves approved.
•SHIP contract accepted at $5,000 per year; personnel changes approved.
•Three polling-place resolutions adopted unanimously to move/merge polling sites and establish three voting centers.
•Topographic and geotechnical studies approved at approximate cost of $32,000.

Directions

•County Administrator and Commission President authorized to execute the amendment; staff to coordinate with FTC for implementation.
•County staff to coordinate funding logistics with the Town of Fyffe.
•Engineer to re-scope and re-bid Adamsburg project and to proceed with projects in the amended transportation plan.
•Personnel actions approved; departments to proceed with staffing changes.
•Staff to implement changes and notify affected voters and precinct personnel.
•Staff to implement the contract and personnel change.
•Staff to proceed with study contracts and to coordinate with Piper Sandler on financing steps.

Jun

DeKalb County meeting minutes June 9, 2026

The DeKalb County Commission met June 9, 2026, approving a contract with GMC Architects and authorization to seek financing for a new courtroom, adopting a retiree lump-sum resolution under Act 2026-608, approving broad jail staffing changes and an MOU with HealthCred for inmate coverage, and accepting a preliminary plat for Grand Estates Phase III.

Discussion Points

•Act 2023-315 added an additional district judgeship creating need for new courtroom.
•Act 2026-608 permits one-time payments of $1 per month of service if a local entity adopts a resolution.
•County Administrator proposed adding square footage vs. renovating existing floors due to cost considerations.
•County Administrator provided specific headcount and total cost figures.
•County staff presented an MOU with HealthCred that could reduce county medical costs for inmates.
•Engineer requested acceptance and permit issuance.
•Estimated project cost cited as $2.8M+.
•Extensive jail staffing changes needed across shifts due to promotions, resignations and terminations.
•Preliminary plat includes 16 lots and ~1,000 feet of road.
•Road crews reported routine maintenance activities and that all 2026 paving is complete.
•Staff requested personnel moves to fill district crew vacancies.

Decisions

•Agreement with GMC Architects accepted; administrator authorized to seek financing.
•Personnel changes and HealthCred MOU approved.
•Personnel changes approved; paving program complete for 2026.
•Preliminary plat accepted and permit authorized.
•Resolution adopted; county will fund payments totaling $34,685.

Directions

•Administrator authorized to seek financing and execute agreement with GMC Architects.
•Administrator to implement payment process after resolution adoption.
•County engineer authorized to issue development permit.
•HR and Road Department to implement approved hires and transfers.
•Staff to implement personnel changes and finalize the HealthCred MOU terms.

Jun

Fort Payne City Council 6/2/26 Fort Payne City Council 6/2/26

Fort Payne City Council held its June 2, 2026 meeting where the council heard a Canyon Center update, opened bids on surplus parcels, discussed a proposed zoning approach for data centers and battery storage, approved liens on three nuisance properties, and adopted a $33,761 one-time payment for retirees and beneficiaries under a state authorization.

Discussion Points

•Bluegrass on the Rim scheduled for June 13, 6–9 p.m.
•Canyon Center programs and partnership with National Park Service.
•Chair reminded members sales are not absolute auctions and the council can decline to accept bids.
•Council considered handling assessments periodically (several properties at once).
•Council discussed buildability, liability, and whether to accept lone bids for non-buildable parcels.
•Council members raised concerns about power, water, noise, and setbacks; some opposed an immediate moratorium.
•Council noted similar action in 2022 and discussed that this is a one-time payment.
•Staff explained two properties are in probate and one was foreclosed, limiting ability to reach a responsible party.
•Staff recommended adding data centers and BESS as conditional uses in M1/M2 so public notice and site-specific conditions apply.
•Staff supplied the dollar amount $33,761 for the city's share.

Decisions

•Accepted $200 bid for 607 Cherokee Drive SW and $3,000 high bid for 402 5th St NE.
•Council approved placing liens; motion carried.
•No moratorium adopted; proceed to Planning Commission review
•Resolution 2026-15 adopted unanimously.

Directions

•Council invited to partner and support Canyon Center activities.
•Finance/HR to administer the payment.
•Item to be placed on the Planning Commission agenda for June 23 for further review and technical input from utilities.
•Staff to file liens and return documentation to the clerk; consider grouping similar cases later in the year.
•Staff to proceed with sale documentation for accepted bids.

Jun

Fort Payne City Council 5/5/26 Fort Payne City Council 5/5/26

Fort Payne City Council met to hear announcements, accept a Toys for Tots recognition, approve a fee waiver for a large factory expansion, receive the annual audit (clean opinion with an accounting change), authorize building sprinkler work, approve several routine budget actions, and debate a confidential economic-development tax-incentive proposal that failed on a 3–2 vote.

Discussion Points

•ALDOT public input meeting: May 12, 5–7 p.m. at Wills Valley Rec Center.
•Auditor reported clean opinion and described the GASB 101 implementation.
•Brownfield redevelopment public input at DeKalb Theater: June 1–4, closing presentation June 4 at 3 p.m.
•City's portion of litigation fees is $35,000.
•Company expansion estimated at about $22,000,000; expected 90–115 jobs.
•Council had previously approved tax abatements for the company.
•Council voted to reject the counteroffer 3–2.
•Counteroffer proposed: 1¢ rebate up to $1,185,000 cap for 10 years.
•Fee waiver limited to 50% of permit fees with a $9,000 cap.
•Funding will come from Foster's Building allotment (approx. $480,000 noted by chair).
•Matter discussed previously in executive session; attorney assisted.
•Noted increases in fixed assets (~$1.7M) and intergovernmental revenues (~$2.5M).
•One recurring audit finding related to cash‑to‑accrual adjustments remained.
•Original company offer: 2¢ rebate up to $2,370,000 over up to 10 years (confidential).
•Presentation of plaques and appreciation for city staff support.
•Program statistics: 2,124 children served last Christmas; 106,002 toys to 15,954 children over 13 prior campaigns.
•Sprinkler contractor estimate $132,700; alarm system estimated $25,000–$30,000.

Decisions

•Approved appropriation up to $163,000
•Approved payment of $35,000
•Approved resolution 20‑26‑14 authorizing fee waiver
•No rebate approved; matter remains open for negotiation.

Directions

•Public encouraged to attend.
•Staff to solicit three alarm-system quotes.

Jun

Fort Payne City Council 6/2/26 Fort Payne City Council 6/2/26

Fort Payne City Council met June 2, 2026, for routine business including a first reading to raise the fee for street/alley vacate petitions, approval of three property-cleanup assessments, adoption of a one-time retiree payment authorized by Act 608, review of surplus-property bids, and a lengthy discussion about data centers and possible zoning changes. Staff and guests also announced community events and a Canyon Center update.

Discussion Points

•402 Fifth Street NE is small but buildable; staff and council confirmed the lot can be developed.
•607 Cherokee Drive SW is steep and likely unbuildable; accepting the bid transfers liability.
•Bluegrass on the Rim is a recurring community concert whose proceeds support education programs.
•Canyon Center partners with National Park Service and JSU to host visitors and school programs.
•Conditional use would trigger public notice and allow restrictions (setbacks, noise limits).
•Council reviewed prior instances and statewide practice for one-time retiree payments.
•Fee established in 2005 no longer covers publication and administrative expenses.
•Infrastructure capacity (power and water) and noise were cited as concerns.
•Liens are filed so cleanup costs can be recovered when taxes are paid or property is sold.
•No active data-center proposals in hand; staff had received one battery-storage inquiry.
•Properties in probate or foreclosure may require city cleanup when no responsible party can be located.

Decisions

•Accepted both bids and authorized staff to finalize sales.
•Adopted resolution 2026-15 authorizing city portion $33,761.
•Council approved placing liens for three properties.
•First reading approved; vote deferred.
•No moratorium adopted; planning commission referral approved.

Directions

•Complete sale documentation for both parcels.
•Place ordinance on June 16 agenda for vote.
•Proceed with cleanup and lien filing for the three identified properties.
•Refer the item to the Planning Commission for June 23; invite utilities staff for input.

May

DeKalb County meeting minutes May 12, 2026

DeKalb County Commission met May 12, 2026 and handled routine business including road maintenance requests, two transportation contract awards, multiple jail personnel actions, a Council on Aging hire, and renewal of a federal rural transit (Section 5311) application.

Discussion Points

•Funding mix: $200,000 each from ALDOT and DCNR, remainder from county funds; three bids received.
•Hire to replace retiring SenioRx Coordinator Dianne Callahan (retiring June 1); Section 5311 renewal prepared by Russell Beam.
•List of terminations, promotions, transfers, hires and resignations for jail shifts.
•Road crews hauling chert, cutting bushes, mowing across all districts; dura-patchers operating in Districts 2, 3 and 4.
•Three bids submitted for CR-159; project covers removal of existing bridge, abutments and modular bridge installation.

Decisions

•Approve $33,000 pipe order; approve road personnel changes.
•Approve personnel package as presented.
•Award contract to Miller & Miller, Inc.
•Award contract to Rogers Group, Inc.
•Hire Alexandra Andres; approve Section 5311 application and adopt required resolutions.

Directions

•Order additional pipe with $33,000 budget increase; Road Department to proceed with hiring/transfers approved.

May

Fort Payne City Council 5/5/26 Fort Payne City Council 5/5/26

Fort Payne City Council covered community happenings, a Toys for Tots presentation, approval of a fee-waiver resolution for a local company expansion, an annual audit presentation with a clean opinion, several municipal votes (including bank depository changes and a sprinkler appropriation), and negotiations over a proposed tax-abatement incentive for a prospective employer.

Discussion Points

•Auditor described GASB change affecting compensated absences and need to estimate payouts.
•Auditor noted a clean opinion and listed corrected misstatements and a recurring finding tied to allowing auditor cash‑to‑accrual adjustments.
•Base sprinkler quote $132,700; alarm estimates $25,000–$30,000.
•Council debated structure (1 vs 2 cents, cap amounts, term length) and negotiating leverage.
•Council discussed prior work-session review with the city attorney and admin committee.
•Funding to come from Fosters Gym allotment/grant proceeds, not new general fund money.
•Initial 2-cent/10-year proposal with $2,370,000 cap presented under NDA; no motion.
•The mayor described the $22M expansion and projected 90–115 jobs.

Decisions

•Appropriation up to $163,000 approved unanimously.
•No incentive approved; one-cent counteroffer failed on roll-call.
•Resolution 2026-14 approved (waive 50% of permit fees up to $9,000).

Directions

•Charge expense to specified Fosters funds.
•Council members may follow up with the auditor for specifics via email.
•Proceed with procurement and receive three alarm quotes.
•Staff to apply the fee waiver consistent with resolution language and track permitting progress.
•Staff to continue confidential negotiations and report back if a public offer is ready.

Apr

Fort Payne City Council 3/3/26 Fort Payne City Council 3/3/26

Fort Payne City Council met March 3, 2026, approving two 4-way stop ordinances, a resolution vacating an unnamed alley, a surplus-vehicle resolution, a $185,000 capital outlay budget adjustment for the Fire Department, and several special-event permits; council also announced a March 17 rezoning hearing and discussed traffic-calming requests in several neighborhoods.

Discussion Points

•ALDOT intersection project delayed by utility relocations; state plans to add right-hand dedicated lanes with 6–9 month equipment lead times.
•City appropriates $100,000 annually to schools; mayor indicated $3,500 directed to girls basketball team.
•Council announced the public hearing and the ordinance number associated with the rezoning request.
•Council asked about expected proceeds and implementation of an auction process.
•Council discussed warning signage and sight-line measures.
•Item arose from executive session; no specifics disclosed in open session.
•Petitioner presented tax map, consents and deed drafts; attorney explained statutory 0.5 split of alley width; staff confirmed legal review prior to vote.
•Police described recurring speeding complaints and proposed a single stop sign to slow traffic in Terrapin Hills; extra patrols suggested for Sanders Avenue.
•Police raised concerns about narrow sidewalks and business impacts from prior gatherings; organizers asked to coordinate with police.
•Police reviewed candidate locations and recommended 13th & Forest and 8th & Forest as the best spots for four-way stops.
•Resident requested a re-evaluation of stop placement at Allen Lane due to sight-line and speed concerns.
•Staff explained vehicles listed (six 2025 Kenworth dump trucks; one 2004 Chevrolet van) and the resale logic for state-bid purchases.
•Two competing park/event requests for March 28 required staff to prioritize the earlier filing and ask the other to reschedule.

Decisions

•Adopted two ordinances establishing four-way stops.
•Budget adjustment for $185,000 approved by roll-call 5-0.
•Cotton States event approved; DeKalb County Democratic Party walk approved with police coordination and conditions; Baby Ray's Boutique asked to reschedule.
•No immediate signage change; police committee to return with recommendation.
•Public hearing scheduled for March 17, 2026 at 5:30 p.m.
•Resolution 2026-03 approved to vacate alley.
•Resolution 2026-06 approved; vehicles to be sold at auction.

Directions

•Finance and Fire Department to process adjustment and report back.
•Organizers must coordinate with police; staff to contact competing applicant for alternate dates/venues.
•Public Works to install signage and notify council when complete.
•Refer specific location review to the police committee for site inspection and recommendation.
•Staff to prepare auction documentation and bring results back to council.
•Staff to record deeds and update property records after resolution passage.

Jan

1/20/26 Fort Payne City Council Meeting 1/20/26 Fort Payne City Council Meeting

Citizen concerns about speeding on Alabama Avenue and proposed fixes dominated public comment; council accepted an Alabama Department of Transportation offer for property tied to a road safety project, made two appointments to the Fort Payne Improvement Authority and handled zoning, liquor licenses, and routine business before entering executive session.

Discussion Points

•Admin committee screened 11 applicants and forwarded five finalists.
•ALDOT offered compensation (appraisal paragraph cited $477,330).
•ALDOT warned it could exercise eminent domain if acquisition failed; condemnation would proceed in probate court.
•Clerk recommended approval for both licenses.
•Council conducted voice votes and approved both items.
•Council debated keeping a small sliver of land and liability concerns.
•Council discussed a four-way stop as an immediate measure and the risk of displacing traffic to adjacent streets.
•Council entertained nominations and used roll-call voting to select two members.
•Council members questioned enforceability of covenants without HOA or active enforcement mechanism.
•Council ratified December bills by voice vote.
•Council voted unanimously to go into an executive session on commerce and trade.
•Existing ordinance (1988) generally bars council members from serving on paid boards unless a board requires a council representative.
•Planning commission reported covenants (1,100 sq ft minimum) and recommended forwarding the rezoning.
•Police described radar-sign technology, patrol responses and recommended solar units for reliability.
•Residents presented a petition and first-hand accounts of frequent speeding on Alabama Avenue North.
•Some councilmembers expressed doubt about the legal enforceability of adding new local restrictions given state-created entities.
•Staff described removable speed humps vs. permanent speed tables and provided cost estimates.
•Two resolutions were postponed to future dates.

Decisions

•Bills ratified; meeting moved into closed session and then adjourned.
•Both alcohol-license motions carried by voice vote.
•Council accepted ALDOT’s offer and will proceed with the administrative steps.
•First reading only; no final rezoning decision at this meeting.
•No formal decision adopted at this meeting; matter continued for additional review and public hearing.
•No new ordinance adopted during this meeting.
•Robbie Davis and Kevin Worley appointed to the Fort Payne Improvement Authority.

Directions

•City Clerk to complete licensing paperwork and issue the approved licenses.
•City Clerk to notify appointees and arrange onboarding for the February meeting.
•Council moved and voted to accept the ALDOT offer; staff to coordinate conveyance and paperwork.
•Council to adhere to existing ordinance; mayoral participation to be addressed separately if needed.
•Finance/Clerk to process bills and record minutes; clerk to handle executive-session documentation consistent with state law.
•Staff to check highway and traffic safety fund balance and report back on procurement options for mobile radar signs and portable speed humps.
•Staff to schedule a public hearing or bring a resolution for council consideration of permanent changes (e.g., speed table) in a future meeting.
•Staff to schedule public hearing and return the item for final action after public input.

Nov

DeKalb County meeting minutes November 12, 2025

The DeKalb County Commission met Nov. 12, 2025, approving multiple road projects and speed‑limit resolutions, awarding equipment purchases, adopting personnel actions for county departments including the sheriff’s office and road crews, and approving contracts including juvenile detention and a tax‑holiday resolution for severe weather preparedness.

Discussion Points

•Chief White presented personnel needs and replacements.
•COA hire and SeniorRx contract introduced by County Administrator on behalf of COA Director.
•Commission authorized procurement and financing for fleet replacement.
•County Administrator requested authorization to execute detention contract.
•Details on bid pricing, loyalty discounts and trade‑ins were provided by Mr. Young.
•EMA Director said policy changes were tied to County Risks Services requirements for safety incentive discounts.
•Engineer cited public safety as reason for speed‑limit changes.
•Engineer noted county will assist with crosswalk and signage and be reimbursed by State Park.

Decisions

•Adopt SeniorRx contract, adopt Drug & Alcohol Policy amendments, adopt tax‑holiday resolution, adopt retirement resolution.
•Adopt speed‑limit resolutions and no‑parking resolution; adopt Amended FY2026 Transportation Plan.
•Approve equipment purchases and adopt finance resolution.
•Approve personnel items and authorize detention contract.

Directions

•County staff to execute detention contract documents and proceed with onboarding approved hires.
•County staff to execute SeniorRx contract and implement policy updates.
•County to assist with crosswalk and signage; State Park to reimburse county.
•Human Resources to administer policy and communicate changes to employees.
•Procurement to proceed and finance contract to be executed by authorized county officials.

Oct

DeKalb County meeting minutes October 14, 2025

At its Oct. 14, 2025 meeting, the DeKalb County Commission approved the purchase of a John Deere backhoe for District 1, several personnel changes in the sheriff's office and revenue commission, a FY2026 contract with Jacksonville State University's Center for Applied Forensics, and a resolution naming two co-safety coordinators. The commission also proclaimed DeKalb Homemakers Week and set its next meeting for Nov. 12, 2025.

Discussion Points

•Road Department reported routine maintenance and District 1 reclaiming work; Mr. Young requested approval to purchase a backhoe.

Decisions

•Purchase of John Deere backhoe for District 1 approved; sheriff\u0002s office personnel changes approved; revenue commission hire approved; FY2026 JSU forensics contract approved; Safety Coordinator Resolution adopted; next meeting set for Nov. 12, 2025.

Directions

•Road Department to proceed with backhoe purchase under Sourcewell cooperative bid once approved.

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