Public Meetings - Huntsville, Alabama

The Huntsville City Council held its regular meeting on January 26, 2023, at 5:30 PM in the City Council Chambers. The meeting included recognitions, public hearings, multiple contract approvals, and discussions on parks and transportation. Councilmember Bill Kling was absent. All votes were unanimous (4-0) unless noted. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda and minutes of the January 12, 2023 meeting. - Approved the following resolutions in a single consent motion (items 20A through 20L, 20N, 20Q through 20Y): travel expenses, donations acceptance, low bidder agreements, cybersecurity framework review with Mauldin & Jenkins, Rebuild Alabama Act compliance, amendment to Tyler Technologies agreement, on-call services with Barge Design Solutions (economic development), Tetra Tech (SCADA), Garver (sanitary sewer rehab), MOU with Madison County for paving Autumn Branch Drive/Capshaw Road/Jordan Road, change order for Merrimack Soccer Complex Phase 2, agreement with Madison County Veterans Memorial Foundation for flag addition, agreement with CDG Inc. for Hays Farm Sports Park testing, agreement with Mobile Communications America for radio maintenance, SMART grant application for Bob Wallace Ave corridor, Capital Investment Grants-Small Starts application for University-Medical BRT, monument repairs at Maple Hill and Glenwood Cemeteries, installation of public safety sensors with ALDOT, and special employee agreements with Richard Yoder and Rebecca Sullivan. - Approved finance committee expenditure resolution (Resolution No. 23-45) for $24,742,650.66. - Reappointed Doug Martinson to the Huntsville Public Library Board (term to February 2027) and appointed Collin Keller to the Animal Services Advisory Committee (term to September 2025). Public Comments & Testimony - Jamie Miernik (1010 Holmes Ave, Huntsville) spoke in favor of Resolution 23-67, the SMART grant application for the Bob Wallace corridor, citing successful bike lane projects on Clinton and Oakwood and improved traffic safety on Oakwood after lane reduction. - Mark Richardson (Madison, AL) objected to a $283.53 assessment for grass cutting on his Huntsville property, stating he received the notice on November 3, 2023 (the final date to comply) and could not cut before the city crew acted. The council acknowledged the concern but noted the violation was valid and the owner had time to act; the resolution was approved. - Carmen Meyers (Millvale Drive) thanked the city for bike lane improvements on Oakwood and urged continued expansion of bike infrastructure for transportation, not just recreation. - Tris Emmy Wilson (5017 Requis Court) also praised Oakwood bike lane improvements but expressed concern about Resolution 20W authorizing automated license plate readers (ALPR cameras) without a published HPD policy on data use and retention. Discussion Items - Resolution honoring Coach Thomas Owen (6A): Councilmember Little presented the resolution celebrating Coach Owen's legacy. His widow and former players attended. Approved unanimously. - Personnel hearing for Queron Wherry (8A): Councilmember Robinson moved to postpone the decision to the February 9, 2023 meeting because Councilmember Kling was absent. Approved unanimously. - Public hearing on rezoning (9A): 24.86 acres west of County Line Rd and north of Old Hwy 20 rezoned from Commercial Industrial Park to Highway Business C-4, with a plat restriction prohibiting multifamily dwellings on a 500-foot frontage parcel. No public comments; approved. - Public hearing on grass cutting assessments (9B): City staff assessed 23 properties totaling $7,819; 17 had non-local owners. Mark Richardson's objection discussed. Councilmember Keith asked for future reports to include owner location breakdown. Approved. - 20M – Sandra Moon Community Complex Phase 3: City Administrator John Hamilton presented a $3.3 million contract with Lambert Contracting LLC (270-day completion). Work includes a new playground (partnered with County Commissioner Phil Riddick, $180,000 contribution), internal street, parking, lighting, and stormwater management. Councilmember Robinson requested sidewalks along the road; Hamilton confirmed pedestrian infrastructure included. Approved unanimously. - 20O – Hays Farm Sports Park: $2.4 million fixed-price contract with Chorba Contracting Corporation for two lighted soccer fields, parking, pavilion, and restrooms. The project stems from a 2013 land swap agreement with the school system and John Hayes. Hamilton noted the fields are multi-purpose and will serve Grissom High School via a tunnel under Haysland Road. Robinson highlighted the restroom pavilion as a community need. Councilmember Keith emphasized equitable park distribution across the city. Approved unanimously. - 20P – Calvary Hill Envision Center change order: Change Order 1 and Final to close out the project, returning $10,000 to the city due to unused allowances. Construction nearly complete. Approved unanimously. - Introduction of ordinances: Two ordinances were introduced for future consideration: (21A) amending Chapter 22 on commercial solid waste collection practices, and (21B) amending the Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual regarding use of city vehicles and the longevity banquet. Key Outcomes - All votes were unanimous (4-0) with Councilmember Kling absent. - The personnel hearing for Queron Wherry was postponed to February 9, 2023. - The rezoning, grass-cutting assessments, annexation, surplus equipment auction, and all new business items were approved. - Nominations for Beautification Board (Keith Buckman) and Wellstone Inc. (Dr. Annie Saylor) were referred to the February 9 meeting. - Two ordinances were introduced and will be back for action on February 9, 2023. - Councilmember Robinson announced upcoming events: quarterly town hall on homelessness (Jan 30 at Sandra Moon Complex), spring cleanup (March 11), and council president's forum on Human Relations Commission (Feb 7). - Councilmember Meredith noted town halls in Providence (Feb 21) and at Williams Middle School (March).

The Huntsville City Council met on January 12, 2023, at 5:30 PM in Council Chambers, presided over by President Pro Tem Jennie Robinson due to Council President John Meredith's absence. All four present council members (Robinson, Kling, Keith, Little) voted unanimously on all items. Mayor Tommy Battle, City Administrator John Hamilton, City Attorney Trey Riley, and Clerk-Treasurer Ken Benion were present. The meeting featured a special recognition, a detailed presentation from Huntsville Utilities on historic winter weather impacts, several public hearings set for February 23, approval of a 136.28‑acre surplus property sale, council improvement fund allocations, and three second‑roster public comments. Public Comments & Testimony - Carol Thomas (2210 Apache Dr. NW) expressed concerns about the city’s education system, noting that one in four children are not reading at grade level and that several schools operate with a C average. She urged the council to ensure educational growth parallels the city’s economic and technological expansion. - Jan Neighbors (7856 Waltzing Helm Rd.) reported progress on the Gateway Greenway Park project, including completed engineering drawings and a Zoom luncheon with author Richard Paul Evans. She highlighted the park’s function as a memorial for children lost at any age, with two similar statues already in Alabama drawing hundreds to annual candlelight vigils. She noted rising costs due to inflation and requested continued community support. - Andre Wilson (District 2 resident) proposed an “all‑student quarantine” to protect children from COVID‑19 variants and school shootings. He argued that quarantining students to their attending schools would create a “zero infection zone” and improve accountability, transparency, and real‑time monitoring of student health, education, and safety. Discussion Items - Huntsville Utilities Winter Storm Presentation – CEO Wes Kelly, joined by Electric Cities of Alabama Executive Director John Hand, provided a comprehensive briefing on Winter Storm Elliott (December 22‑26, 2022). The storm brought record low temperatures (3°F) and record electric demand (1,475 MW peak, vs. 685 MW on Dec. 22). HU implemented rolling blackouts for the first time in its 90‑year history at TVA’s request (ELCP Step 50), opening breakers on the 46 KV system affecting about 8,000 customers per rotation, with most outages lasting 30 minutes. HU did not implement blackouts on Friday morning but complied on Saturday. The gas system set a new peak flow of 87,000 decatherms; water system saw 260 calls for broken pipes during the thaw, largely due to commercial/industrial HVAC issues from blackouts. HU identified stressed circuits north of U.S. 72 and has new substations coming online (Capshaw within 30 days; Old Monrovia and Burwell by summer). Project Share utility assistance is being expanded for affected customers. Council members asked about power surges, billing impacts, and HU’s policy of not disconnecting for non‑payment when temperatures are below 32°F or above 100°F. - Surplus Property Sale (Unfinished Business) – Ordinance 22‑1030 declared 136.28 acres (Lot 2, Lanier Subdivision) south of Bob Wade Lane and east of Pulaski Pike as surplus and authorized a Purchase and Sale Agreement with Stanley Developers, LLC. Director of Urban & Economic Development Shane Davis explained that only 3.9 acres will be sold (at appraised value) for regional detention, enabling a planned mixed‑use development including approximately 250 new homes, commercial/retail, and trail connections to Wade Mountain greenways. Councilmember Keith noted that District 1 saw over 700 new residential lots through planning commission in 2022, the most of any district. - Council Improvement Funds (New Business – held for discussion) – Two ordinances allocated $75,000 each from the new council improvement fund: 20H (District 4, Councilmember Kling) – $5,000 for the Angel of Hope memorial at Cleveland Avenue park, $25,000 for animal control to reduce euthanizations, and $45,000 for road/sidewalk repairs in District 4. 20I (District 1, Councilmember Keith) – $3,500 for Huntsville Revisited Museum promotion and preservation of history/art, with museum founder William Hampton speaking about his work. - Memorial Parkway / Mastin Lake Overpass Agreements (20L‑N) – Three authorizing resolutions with ALDOT for traffic signals, roadway lighting, and maintenance on the Mastin Lake Road to Winchester Road project (ALDOT Project NH‑0001(610)). Director Davis noted the $50 million project will let in February, with main construction starting around May 2023 after utility relocations are complete. Councilmember Keith raised concerns about signage for small businesses during construction; Davis confirmed the city’s traffic engineering department can install and maintain wayfinding signs. Davis also urged residents to contact the city engineering department for complaints rather than ALDOT. Key Outcomes - Agenda approved as submitted. - Minutes of December 15, 2022, approved. - Proclamation presented declaring January 2023 as Mentoring Month; Big Brothers/Big Sisters of North Alabama recognized. - Byron Thomas, HR Director, received 25‑year service pin. - Public hearings set for February 23, 2023: - Zoning of 2.56 acres on Oakwood Rd. / Research Park Blvd. to Residence 2‑A District (Resolution 23‑01, Ordinance 23‑02) – unanimous 4‑0. - Vacation of right‑of‑way along Davis Circle (Resolutions 23‑03/23‑04, Ordinance 23‑05) – unanimous 4‑0. - Finance Committee Report – Resolution 23‑06 authorizing expenditures of $48,462,382.60 – unanimous 4‑0. - Board reappointments approved: - Katie Beasley to Land Trust of North Alabama (two‑year term ending Dec. 31, 2024) – unanimous. - Abby Owens to Advisory Commission on Accessibility, Seat 8 (three‑year term ending Jan. 10, 2026) – unanimous. - Traci Harris to Madison County DHR Board, Place 7 (completing term ending Aug. 1, 2027) – unanimous. - Board nominations referred to January 26 meeting: - Doug Martinson to Huntsville Public Library Board (four‑year term ending Feb. 10, 2027). - Collin Keller to Animal Services Advisory Committee, Place 1 (three‑year term ending Sept. 9, 2025). - Sewer easement vacation at 222 Washington Street (Lewter Hardware) – Ordinance 23‑10 approved unanimously. - Unfinished business – Surplus property sale to Stanley Developers, LLC (Ordinance 22‑1030) approved unanimously. - New business – Consent items (20A‑G, 20J‑K, 20M‑AD): All approved in one unanimous vote, covering travel expenses, donations, procurement, light duty vehicle contracts, budget amendments, carry‑forward appropriations, Huntsville City FC practice facility lease, SJ&L General Contractor contract for Ditto Landing access road, ALDOT lighting and maintenance agreements, Schoel Engineering contracts (Lowe Avenue streetscape and Fagan Creek LOMR), Rogers Group modification, REV Construction sewer contract, Sain Engineering for new city hall commissioning, HUD homeless assistance grant, firefighter cancer/LTD benefit, personnel strength ordinance, Checkr background checks, Marsh & McLennan parking lot insurance, AEMA EMPG grant, DEA task force agreement, letter of credit invocation, boathouse purchase, and special employee agreements for George Daigle and Kimberly Gosa. - Council improvement funds approved: - District 4 (Ordinance 23‑18) – $75,000 – unanimous. - District 1 (Ordinance 23‑19) – $3,500 – unanimous. - Memorial Parkway traffic signal agreement (Resolution 23‑22) approved unanimously. - New business introduced for January 26 vote: - Annexation of 4.50 acres east of US Hwy 431 S and west of Wade Rd. (Ordinance 23‑41). - Surplus equipment auction (Ordinance 23‑42). - Meeting adjourned at approximately 7:10 PM.

The Huntsville City Council held its regular meeting on Thursday, December 15, 2022, at 5:30 PM in the Council Chambers. All five council members were present (Meredith, Robinson, Kling, Keith, Little), along with Mayor Tommy Battle, City Administrator John Hamilton, City Attorney Trey Riley, and Clerk-Treasurer Ken Benion. The meeting included multiple public hearings, zoning decisions, a debate on public comment rules, approval of a housing assistance program, and several annexations. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the December 1, 2022 meeting (unanimous). - Approved multiple routine zoning and rezoning items (9B-9E, 9G) with no public testimony: Old Big Cove Rd. (R-1A), Wade Rd. (C-4 with restrictions), Oakwood Ave./Meridian St. (R-2), Swancott Rd. (C-4), and a front yard ordinance amendment. - Approved public nuisance cleanup and demolition liens (9I, 9J) – 6311 Marsh Ave. ($15,931.84) and 2106 Boardman St. – both unanimously. - Approved legal easement vacations (18A-18G) unanimously. - Approved open burning permit fee increase from $100 to $250 (19A) unanimously. - Approved multiple board reappointments (15A, 15B): James Splawn and James Ledbetter to the Solid Waste Disposal Authority (unanimous). - Approved the consent agenda for most new business items (20A-K, M, N, R-Y) including budget amendments, procurement, a solar ground lease, Sandra Moon Community Center change order, Don Mincher Drive engineering, HPD lease modification, purchase agreements, and several special employee agreements. - Approved travel expenses, donations, and various consulting/service contracts (unanimous). Public Hearings & Testimony - 9F – Holmes Ave Rezoning (4.33 acres from R-1B to C-1 for student housing): Multiple residents of the McThornmore Acres and Greenacre neighborhoods spoke in opposition. Ray Allen cited lack of notice, concerns about parking, traffic, and property values. Peggy Klaus (neighborhood association) opposed rezoning but suggested fewer concerns if UAH built/managed. David Mullins raised questions about parking capacity, the developer's plans, and the speed of the process. Donna Dutton worried about future commercial uses and the risk if the project falls through. The council heard the public and closed the hearing. Councilmember Kling moved to refer back to the Planning Commission, but it lacked a second. The ordinance passed 4-1 (Kling opposed). - 9H – Medical Cannabis Facilities Regulations: Planning staff presented a conservative zoning approach, restricting dispensaries to the Medical District only, with setbacks from schools/daycares (1,000 feet) and residential districts (abutment prohibited). No combustible products allowed. Councilmember Keith raised concerns about "commercial redlining" and lack of variance process for other zones like M-2. City Attorney clarified that amending would require restarting the process and miss the state's December 30 deadline. Councilmember Robinson noted the urgency. The ordinance passed 4-0 with Keith abstaining. - Agenda-Related Public Comment: Tris Wilson spoke in support of 19B (public comments rule), arguing it would increase openness. Discussion Items - 19B – Public Comments Rule Amendment: Councilmember Kling proposed reverting to a single public comment period at the start of meetings (as historically practiced). He argued it shows responsiveness and allows earlier citizen engagement. Councilmember Robinson opposed, saying the current system is effective and individual meetings/emails are better problem-solving tools. Councilmember Keith supported the change, noting seasonal timing and accessibility. The motion required a 4/5 vote (amendment to council rules). Vote: Kling and Keith in favor; Meredith, Robinson, Little against. Motion failed 2-3. After the vote, Robinson changed her vote to "aye" but it did not affect the outcome. - 20L – Huntsville Housing Helps Program: Scott Irwin (Community Development) presented a $6 million program (up to $5M for direct benefits, $1M for administration) administered by the Catholic Center of Concern to provide temporary rental/housing assistance for households in crisis. Councilmember Robinson praised the agency. Councilmember Keith asked for quarterly spending reports by demographic/zip code, which was agreed. Approved unanimously. - 20O, 20P, 20Q – Consulting Contracts: Renewals for Direct Communications ($168,000 for state lobbying), 535 Group LLC ($108,000 for federal lobbying), and GovOS ($191,948 for online forms). All held for transparency; approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Holmes Ave Rezoning (9F): Approved 4-1. No restriction on the project type, but planning staff noted future parking agreements with UAH and design review by the Board of Zoning Adjustments. - Medical Cannabis (9H): Approved 4-0 (Keith abstaining). Regulations effective immediately; dispensaries limited to Medical District; future expansion possible based on state actions. - Public Comments Rule (19B): Failed (2-3). The current order (agenda-related comments first, second roster later) remains. - Housing Helps Program (20L): Approved. Quarterly reporting to council. - Annexations (21A, 21B, 21C): All approved unanimously after unanimous consent to consider. 21A (1,220.5 acres west of I-65) will be commercial/industrial only, supported by the existing Greenbrier fire station. 21B (0.5 acres) and 21C (3.47 acres on Winchester Rd.) annexed for city services. - Surplus Property Declaration (21D): 136.28 acres (Lot 2, Lanier Subdivision) declared surplus; purchase/sale agreement with Stanley Developers LLC referred to January 12, 2023 meeting. - Board Nominations (16A-C): Katie Beasley (Land Trust), Abby Owens (Accessibility), Traci Harris (Human Resources) – all referred to January 2023 meeting. - Finance Committee: Expenditures of $18,033,470.95 approved. Councilmember Comments - Councilmember Kling noted the passing of community leaders Charlie Granger and Bill Poole, and raised a traffic concern at Chick-fil-A/Starbucks on Governors Drive. - Councilmember Keith highlighted successes in Terry Heights (rising property values) and called for action against absentee landlords responsible for crime and blight. - Councilmember Little praised the Connect class and holiday events. - Councilmember Robinson emphasized the need for a rental registry, short-term rental ordinance, and vacant building controls; also promoted HPD Open House and Christmas on the River events. - President Meredith thanked Huntsville Fire & Rescue for 200 years of service and announced a January 3, 2023 President’s Forum on the arts.

The Huntsville City Council convened on Thursday, December 1, 2022, at 5:30 PM in the City Council Chambers. All five council members were present. The meeting included proclamations, public hearings, numerous consent agenda items, a lengthy public comment period in support of the police chief nomination, and a contentious discussion on the process for appointing department heads. The council voted to confirm three department heads: Tara Sloan (Cemetery), Nick Nane (Traffic Engineer), and Kirk Giles (Police Chief). Consent Calendar - Approval of the agenda and minutes of November 17, 2022. - Proclamation declaring December 2022 as Project Share Month, recognizing a program that has assisted 29,435 families with $5.2 million in utility assistance. - Public hearing on vacation of a right-of-way in Old Town Subdivision (Clinton Avenue and Monroe Street) – adopted. - Public hearing for suspension of licensure for seven confidential tax cases (numbers 381-387) for failure to remit taxes – licenses suspended for 12 months. - Resolution to set a public hearing for January 26, 2023, on rezoning 24.86 acres at County Line Road and Old Highway 20 from Commercial Industrial Park to Highway Business C-4 District. - Finance Committee Report: Expenditures totaling $13,180,488.65 approved. - Board appointments: Shane Stewart to Huntsville Ice Skating Complex Board of Control (approved 5-0); Kristin Wilson to Huntsville Tennis Center Board of Control (approved 4-0, with Councilmember Kling abstaining). - Board appointment nominations: James Splawn and James Ledbetter to Solid Waste Disposal Authority – referred to future meetings. - Legal Department items: Resolution and ordinance vacating right-of-way in Old Town Subdivision (both approved unanimously). - Unfinished business: Amendments to Classification and Salary Plan and Budget Ordinance (both approved unanimously). - New business items for consideration (consent agenda): Travel expenses, donations, procurement (with one bid removed after protest), change orders for Aldridge Creek Greenway, First Stop CDBG-CV funds, Legacy Park construction, Joe Davis Stadium renovation, agreement for John Hunt Park Recreation Center engineering, W.H. Councill Memorial Park paver replacement, firearm purchase agreement, and three special employee agreements. All approved except two items held for separate discussion (procurement and Legacy Park change order). - Introduction of ordinances: (1) Increasing open burning permit fee from $100 to $250; (2) Amending council rules regarding order of business for public comments. Both introduced and due back December 15, 2022. Public Comments & Testimony - Agenda-related public comments were dominated by speakers supporting the appointment of Interim Chief Kirk Giles as permanent police chief. Eleven speakers addressed the council, including former Police Chief Rex Reynolds, attorney Billy Bell, citizens Victoria Guerrero, Mary Jane Kaler (Giles’ second-grade teacher), Larry Sharp, Leonard Jefferson, James Gilbert, Bobby White, Brian Williams, Jerry Cox, Gary and Sherry Sloeb, Dr. Ronnie Najar, Rika McRoy, and former news anchor Lee Marshall. All voiced strong support for Giles, citing his 45 years of service, integrity, community relationships, and leadership. Several emphasized the importance of promoting from within and the message it sends to city employees. No speakers opposed the appointment. Discussion Items - Appointment of Department Heads (Item 19C): The mayor presented three nominees: Tara Sloan (Cemetery), Nick Nane (Traffic Engineer), and Kirk Giles (Police Chief). The mayor noted that all three had served as interims and been “test-driven” over the past year. Councilmembers shared positive experiences with each nominee. However, Councilmember Devyn Keith raised concerns about the lack of a transparent, replicable selection process, stating that the appointment appeared to be a “practice” rather than a “process.” He noted that the police department is 82% male and 80% white, and argued that without a formal process, it is unclear how other officers could aspire to become chief. Councilmember John Meredith echoed concerns about the process, stating that the council had been publicly told the appointment was a “done deal” before the vote. Councilmembers Jennie Robinson and Bill Kling defended the appointments, praising the nominees’ qualifications and the mayor’s prerogative to appoint. After extensive debate, a motion to close discussion was defeated (2-3). The final roll call vote on the resolution to appoint the three department heads resulted in: Ayes – Robinson, Kling, Little; Abstentions – Meredith, Keith. The resolution passed, confirming the appointments. Key Outcomes - Confirmed Appointments: Tara Sloan as Cemetery Director, Nick Nane as Traffic Engineer, and Kirk Giles as Police Chief (vote 3-0-2). - Bid Protest: A protest regarding TJM Tire LLC was acknowledged; the bid was removed from the procurement resolution. The remaining two bids (James R. Hall towing and Tree Professional Inc.) were approved. - Legacy Park Change Order No. 1 approved for $92,628 (part of a $4.6 million project), to cover an unforeseen electrical subcontractor change and structural steel adjustments; timeline remains on schedule. - Public Hearing Set: Rezoning of 24.86 acres at County Line Road and Old Highway 20 set for January 26, 2023. - Open Burning Fee Increase Introduced: Ordinance to increase permit fee from $100 to $250, due back December 15, 2022. - Council Rules Amendment Introduced: Ordinance to modify the order of business for public comments, due back December 15, 2022. - Project Share Month Proclamation: December declared Project Share Month to encourage utility bill donations. - Tax License Suspensions: Seven businesses had their licenses suspended for 12 months for failure to remit taxes. - Right-of-Way Vacation: Approved for redevelopment of the former Coke site, with the developer to provide new streetscape improvements.

The Huntsville City Council convened on Thursday, November 17, 2022, at 5:30 PM in the City Council Chambers. Councilmembers John Meredith (President), Bill Kling, Devyn Keith, and David Little were present; Councilmember Jennie Robinson was absent. The meeting included public hearings on zoning changes and a sign ordinance, approval of pay increases for police and fire personnel, discussion of a quarterly report from the Huntsville Police Citizens Advisory Council, and several board appointments. Notably, two nominees to the Huntsville Tennis Center Board of Control failed to receive enough votes. Consent Calendar - Approval of the agenda (motion carried 4–0). - Approval of the minutes from November 10, 2022. - Approval of new business items 20A, 20B, 20D, 20E, 20H, 20J–20S (consent agenda, all approved unanimously). Items 20C, 20F, 20G, and 20I were pulled for separate discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Tom Estes (211 Bel Air Road, Huntsville): Spoke about his nomination to the Huntsville Tennis Center Board, which was declined by the council. He read an email from Councilmember Robinson alleging he had been rude and disrespectful. Estes apologized and stated he had been professional. He urged the council to consider willingness and ability to serve rather than personal attacks. - John Haskell (1613 Shropshire Drive, Huntsville): Supported Tom Estes, noting Estes had a professional background at NASA and UAH. Haskell disagreed with Councilmember Robinson on the Tennis Center’s need to be self-sustaining. - Denny Reisner (Madison): Praised Estes’ character and professional background, stating he had never seen Estes act unprofessionally on the tennis court. - Chad Chavez (7512 Clubfield Drive): Criticized the city’s reliance on Vimeo for streaming (which had gone down) and requested the meeting be put on Facebook. He expressed concern about the lack of an open search for a new police chief and the need for transparency, noting he had not received a reply from the police chief about crime statistics. Discussion Items - Presentation of Life‑Saving Medals (Item 5A): Sergeant McCarver and Officer Rogers were awarded medals for rescuing a 15‑year‑old girl from a burning apartment building. - Resolution Honoring Kyle Wright (Item 6A): The council unanimously adopted Resolution 22‑936 honoring Huntsville native and MLB pitcher Kyle Wright, the only 20‑game winner in Major League Baseball in 2022. - Quarterly Update from Huntsville Police Citizens Advisory Council (HPCAC) (Item 7A): Presented by Vicky Gareri. The HPCAC reported on citizen engagement, a public meeting on use of force, and the upcoming annual report. The HPCAC announced its majority support for appointing Kirk Giles as Chief of Police. Councilmember Little and Councilmember Keith discussed the high meeting burden on volunteers and requested a review of the meeting schedule. Councilmember Keith also suggested inviting an outside speaker on community policing. - Public Hearing – Henderson Lane Zoning (Item 9A): 9.57 acres south of US Hwy 72 W and east of Henderson Lane zoned to Highway Business C‑4 and Residence 2 Districts, with a plat restriction prohibiting multifamily development in the C‑4 area. Approved unanimously. - Public Hearing – Wade Road Rezoning (Item 9B): 0.61 acres north and west of Wade Road rezoned from Residence 2‑A to Highway Business C‑4, with plat restrictions. Approved unanimously. - Public Hearing – Sign Control Regulations (Item 9C): Ordinance 22‑809 amending Article 72 of the Zoning Ordinance to update regulations for temporary signs, projecting signs, and signage in several districts. Thomas Nunez (Manager of Planning Services) presented detailed changes. Approved unanimously. - Public Hearing to Set – Suspension of Licensure (Item 10A): Set a public hearing for December 1, 2022, regarding confidential tax‑related cases 381–387. Approved unanimously. - Police and Fire Pay Increases (Item 19D): Ordinance 22‑934 raised the minimum hiring rate for Police Officer/Cadet and Firefighter/Cadet positions to Step 8 of their respective salary grades, allowed a four‑step progression upon certification, increased the physical fitness incentive pay from 2.5% to 5% for police, and established a similar 5% incentive for firefighters. City Administrator John Hamilton and Human Resources Director Byron Thomas explained the need to improve recruitment and retention. Approved unanimously. - Board Appointments (Items 15A–15F): Robert Broadway reappointed to Public Building Authority (unanimous). Harold Weatherly reappointed to Tennis Center Board (3–0, Kling abstained). Missy Hanks appointed to HPCAC (unanimous). Elisa Ferrell appointed to Madison County 310 Board (unanimous). Kristin Wilson’s appointment to Tennis Center Board failed (1‑1‑2; Little aye, Keith nay, Meredith and Kling abstained). Keith Rice’s appointment to Tennis Center Board failed (2‑0‑2; Meredith and Keith aye, Kling and Little abstained). - Council Committee Elections (Items 22A–22D): John Meredith elected to Planning Commission and Metropolitan Planning Organization; Jennie Robinson elected to Research Park Board; Bill Kling elected to Historic Preservation Commission (all unanimous). - Council President Appointments (Items 23A–23E): Appointments made to the Top of Alabama Regional Council of Governments (Robinson, Little), Community Action Agency (Kling), Advisory Commission on Accessibility (Little), Insurance Committee (Robinson, Keith), and Finance Committee (Keith as chair, Little as vice chair). Key Outcomes - Police and Fire Pay Ordinance Approved – Unanimously passed, effective upon adoption. - Huntsville Tennis Center Board – Two Nominees Failed – Kristin Wilson (sponsored by Robinson) and Keith Rice (sponsored by Keith) both failed to receive enough votes; the seats remained vacant pending future nominations. - Sign Ordinance Amendment Adopted – Unanimously approved, updating temporary sign heights, projecting sign limits, and signage rules for downtown and Airport Industrial Park. - Public Hearing for Suspension of Licensure Set – Scheduled for December 1, 2022. - City Council Committee Representatives Elected – Meredith (Planning, MPO), Robinson (Research Park Board), Kling (Historic Preservation). - Postponement of Department Head Appointments (Item 20I) – Motion to postpone to December 1, 2022, carried 3–0 (Meredith abstaining). - Expenditures Approved – $21,939,699.80 authorized for payment. - Quarterly HPCAC Update Acknowledged – Councilmembers agreed to work with HPCAC on reducing meeting frequency and exploring a third‑party speaker on community policing. - Guest Speaker at Future Council Forum – Council President Meredith announced a presidential forum on December 6, 2022, with the Transportation Department.

The Huntsville City Council held its regular meeting on Thursday, November 10, 2022, at 5:30 PM in the City Council Chambers. Council President John Meredith presided, with Councilmembers Jennie Robinson, Bill Kling, and Devyn Keith present; Councilmember David Little was absent. The meeting began with an invocation by Reverend Don Darius Butler and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Ty Oswald, founder of Bearded Warriors. The agenda was approved with the deletion of item 23E and unanimous consent granted to introduce item 21A. Consent Calendar - Agenda and Minutes: The agenda was approved as amended. Minutes from the October 27, 2022 regular meeting were approved; Councilmember Kling abstained due to absence at that meeting. - Unfinished Business: Ordinance 22-882 declaring certain property surplus and authorizing disposal via Managed Asset Recovery Services was approved. - Finance Committee Expenditures: Resolution 22-901 authorizing payments totaling $14,342,696.02 was approved unanimously. - New Business Consent Agenda: Items 20A through 20D, 20G, 20H, 20J, 20L through 20V, 20X, and 20Z through 20AB were approved in a single motion. These included travel expenses, donations, low bidder agreements, a license agreement with 5 Points Group LLC (Resolution 22-906), engineering services for Fern Bell Park (Resolution 22-910), a cooperative agreement with Alabama EMA for the FY2021 EMPG grant (Resolution 22-914), elevator maintenance at 178 Greene Street (Resolution 22-915), a FTA grant amendment (Resolution 22-916), workers' compensation settlements for J. Jesus Sanchez Vega, George Jones Jr., and Chass Shannon (Resolutions 22-917 through 22-919), invoking letters of credit for five subdivisions (Resolutions 22-920 through 22-924), a professional services modification with Nelson\/Nygaard (Resolution 22-926), a court reporter agreement with Ileen Shoemaker (Resolution 22-928), a special employee agreement with Woody Maples (Resolution 22-929), and renewal of the Government Crime Policy with Zurich Insurance (Resolution 22-930). Public Hearings Held - 9A – Public Nuisance at 4801 Aubrey Cir. NW: A public hearing was held on a fire-damaged property. Community Development Director Scott Irwin reported the structure had a 100% loss rating. No public comments were received. The council unanimously approved Resolution 22-883 ordering abatement of the nuisance. - 9B – Grass Liens: A public hearing was held on Resolution 22-884, authorizing assessment of costs for cutting overgrown grass\/weeds on 74 properties. The total assessment was $23,540.75 (average $318.12 per property). Of the 74 properties, 40 were owned by non-local entities (25 out-of-state, 1 out-of-country). Councilmembers expressed concern about absentee landlords and requested exploring enhanced penalties. The resolution passed unanimously. Public Hearings Set (All for December 15, 2022 Regular Council Meeting) - 10A: Amending Air Pollution Control Rules and Regulations (Resolution 22-885, Ordinance 22-886). - 10B: Zoning 1.16 acres on Old Big Cove Rd. to Residence 1-A District (Resolution 22-887, Ordinance 22-888). - 10C: Zoning 5.47 acres on Wade Rd. to Highway Business C-4 District (Resolution 22-889, Ordinance 22-890). - 10D: Rezoning 16.32 acres on Oakwood Ave. and Meridian St. from Light Industry to Residence 2 District (Resolution 22-891, Ordinance 22-892). - 10E: Rezoning 10.47 acres on Swancott Rd. from Commercial Industrial Park to Highway Business C-4 District (Resolution 22-893, Ordinance 22-894). - 10F: Rezoning 4.33 acres on Holmes Ave. from Residence 1-B to Neighborhood Business C-1 District (Resolution 22-895, Ordinance 22-896). - 10G: Amending Front Yard regulations for lots on major streets (Resolution 22-897, Ordinance 22-898). - 10H: Adding Article 77 – Medical Cannabis Facilities Regulations (Resolution 22-899, Ordinance 22-900). All public hearing setting resolutions passed unanimously. Discussion Items - Councilmember Keith’s Requests: Keith asked the administration to provide a summary of ballot referendum 6 and its impact on Huntsville, and to schedule an end-of-year review from Police Chief Hampson addressing recent violent incidents, including a shooting into an occupied home where a child was injured. Chief Hampson confirmed the investigation was ongoing and agreed to meet. - Councilmember Kling’s Concerns: Kling highlighted two neighborhood issues: (1) McThormore Acres residents were unhappy with a Planning Commission decision; a public hearing is set for Dec 15. (2) The Merrimack neighborhood faces a Board of Zoning Adjustment (BZA) decision approving a duplex after construction had proceeded without required variances; the appeal process goes to circuit court, not the council, causing financial burden. Kling asked if state law allows changing the BZA appeal to go to the council instead. - Mayor’s Comments: Mayor Battle announced tree planting (1,350 trees at John Hunt Park and Wade Mountain), volunteer appreciation, volleyball championships, professional soccer coming to Huntsville, and Veterans Day events. - Councilmember Comments: Robinson reported on a homeless services panel that noted $13 million in annual funding and a new homeless detail (Officers Killingsworth and Boyd). She thanked veterans. Kling and Meredith also honored veterans and shared community updates. - Finance Director Report: Penny Smith presented FY22 financial results: general fund strong, sales and use taxes up 12%, lodging taxes up 33% (19% above pre-pandemic). She noted inflationary pressures and a potential recession, with the Fed raising rates to 4%. The city plans to use liquidity for cash payments and pay off interfund transfers. - Held New Business Items (Each approved unanimously after discussion): - 20E – Vision Composite Products Purchase Option: Resolution 22-907 authorizing a purchase option for 10.98 acres in Cummings Research Park at $99,500\/acre ($1,093,206 total) for a new R&D center. - 20F – S&ME Engineering for James Record Road: Resolution 22-908 for design services ($31,121) for intersection improvements, part of Martin Road Phase II. - 20I – Public Safety Academy Phase II: Resolution 22-911 with Fite Construction for $17,469,325, adding a burn tower, rappel tower, fire pump test facility, running track, and driving course for regional training. - 20K – TTL for Fire Station 20: Resolution 22-913 for engineering services ($35,256) for construction materials testing at Fire Station 20 on Bergreen Road. - 20W – CentralSquare Alarm Management Software: Resolution 22-925 for alarm registration and personnel support, funded by user fees (25% city, 75% vendor split), with no cost to the city. - 20Y – Nola Van|Peursem Architects for CSI Building: Resolution 22-927 for architectural services ($366,500) to design a new Crime Scene Investigation building and warehouse on Wheeler Avenue, co-locating evidence storage. - New Business Introductions: - 21A – TIF Refunding Warrant: Ordinance 22-905 authorizing a $16,574,000 taxable general obligation warrant to refinance a portion of the Series 2010-B TIF revenue warrant for Redstone Gateway. Finance Director Smith explained the debt is paid by TIF ad valorem taxes; the city has no financial risk. Introduced and approved with unanimous consent. - 21B – Expanded Drug Testing: Ordinance 22-931 amending the personnel manual to allow expanded drug and alcohol testing for certain certified positions. - 21C – Surplus Equipment Auction: Ordinance 22-932 declaring equipment surplus for public auction. - 21D – Annexation: Ordinance 22-933 annexing 2.56 acres on Oakwood Road and Research Park Boulevard. - 21E – Police/Fire Hiring Rate Increase: Ordinance 22-934 raising minimum hiring rates for Police Officer\/Cadet and Firefighter\/Cadet positions and amending related sections. - Committee Elections and Council President Appointments: - 22a – Planning Commission Representative: Councilmember Robinson nominated President Meredith; Councilmember Keith nominated David Little. A roll call vote resulted: Meredith aye, Robinson aye, Kling abstain, Keith nay – motion failed (need majority). Motion to postpone all committee elections (22a-22d) to Nov 17 passed unanimously. - 23 – Council President Appointments: President Meredith moved to postpone appointments (Top of Alabama COG, Community Action Agency, Advisory Commission on Accessibility, Insurance Committee, board representative, Finance Committee chair and vice chair) to Nov 17. Motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - All consent items and most new business items were approved unanimously. - Failed Appointment: The appointment of Tom Estes to the Huntsville Tennis Center Board (Resolution 22-935) failed with a vote of 1-1-2 (Kling aye, Robinson nay, Meredith and Keith abstain). - New Nominations: From the floor, Councilmember Robinson nominated Kristen Wilson and Councilmember Keith nominated Keith Rice for the same Tennis Center seat; these will be considered at the Nov 17 meeting. - Postponements: All city council committee elections (Items 22a-22d) and Council President appointments (Items 23a-23f) were postponed to the November 17, 2022 regular council meeting. - Directives: Staff was asked to explore legal options for enhanced penalties against absentee property owners and to review the BZA appeal process to potentially allow council review instead of circuit court.

The Huntsville City Council met on Thursday, October 27, 2022, at 5:30 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting featured special recognitions, a series of public hearings on rezoning and land‑use changes, approval of the medical cannabis dispensing site ordinance, award of major street resurfacing and beautification contracts, and farewell tributes to outgoing Councilmember Frances Akridge. Consent Calendar - Minutes from three prior meetings (August 26, September 26, and October 13, 2022) were approved unanimously. - Resolutions and Ordinances approved en bloc (unless pulled for separate discussion): - Special recognitions (Huntsville Police Department Peer Support System, Mayfair Church of Christ). - Public hearing items 9B through 9J (rezonings and zoning amendments) were all approved with discussion on several items (see below). - Public hearings to set (Item 10A) – right‑of‑way vacation in Old Town Subdivision set for December 1, 2022. - Finance Committee: Expenditures totaling $30,138,011.02 (Resolution 22‑853). - Board appointments: Kelsey Smith and Thomas Holliday to the Ice Skating Complex Board, Richard Godwin to the Community Development Citizens Advisory Council. - Board nomination: Tom Estes to the Tennis Center Board (nominated, to be voted on later). - Huntsville Utilities: Agreement with Marshall County Gas District (Resolution 22‑857) – conveyance of pipeline in exchange for construction of a $750,000 gate station. - Legal Department: Vacation resolutions/ordinances for alleyways and rights‑of‑way in Pierre Addition, Wakefield Subdivision, and MidCity Subdivision Phase 6. - Unfinished Business: Ordinance 22‑845 (shooting range easement). - New Business (all except Items 20E, 20H, 20N): including travel expenses, donations, budget amendment, procurement, joint funding with USGS, Governor’s Drive landscaping agreements, design contracts for Raymond Jones Community Center and John Hunt Park Recreation Center, Big Spring Park retaining wall evaluation, law enforcement MOU, CDBG‑CV modification, historic preservation grants, settlement of two lawsuits, special employee agreements, and software upgrade. Public Comments & Testimony - Andre Wilson (District 2 resident) addressed school safety and the rise in student violence, urging proactive measures. He also noted the CDC director’s COVID‑19 infection and praised contactless water fountains in the building as a positive step. Discussion Items Rezoning & Zoning Amendments (Public Hearings) - 9A – Nuisance abatement at 235 Victory Ln. NE: Community Development reported the property had 42 total notices (11 junk, 17 grass, 2 fence, 10 house, 1 unsafe building). The hearing was held with no public opposition; the resolution ordering abatement was approved. - 9B – 71.55 acres at Martin Luther King Jr. Hwy & Pulaski Pike: Rezoned from Planned Industrial to Highway Business C‑4 and Residence 2 for a mixed‑use development with retail, multifamily, and single‑family housing. Councilmember Keith noted the community’s desire for housing and retail over warehouses. Planning staff explained the transition from industrial to community use north of the industrial park. - 9C – 12.60 acres at Research Park Blvd & Old Monrovia Rd: Zoned to C‑4. Councilmember Akridge asked about apartment saturation; staff noted they monitor corridors and the market has been dry for over a decade, with a recent cautious slowdown. - 9D through 9H: Approved with minimal discussion, including: - 0.84 acres (R‑2) at McMullen Rd. - 2.34 acres (R‑2B) at Brinell & Haysland (consistency correction). - 6.03 acres (R‑2 & C‑4) at Memorial Pkwy & Southpark Blvd. - 2.47 acres (C‑4) at US 231/431 & Countess Rd (with 50‑ and 30‑foot undisturbed buffers). - 153 acres (R‑2) at Hwy 72 W & Holladay Blvd (conversion from C‑4 for single‑family workforce housing, acknowledged as near Mazda Toyota). - 9I – Crown Creek PUD: Amendment to reduce secondary front yard setback from 20 ft to no less than 12 ft for one lot due to street curvature. Planning staff clarified the PUD requires Council action. - 9J – Apartment Structure Density Amendment: Ordinance 22‑685 limits multifamily structures to four per acre across all zoning districts. One public speaker supported the balance; the ordinance was approved. - 9K–9M – Right‑of‑way vacations: Hearings held; votes taken later under Legal. Medical Cannabis Dispensing Sites (Unfinished Business – 19B) - Ordinance 22‑846 authorizing medical cannabis dispensing sites in the city limits, as required by state law, was approved (Councilmember Kling absent but supportive via proxy). - Discussion: Henry Thornton (External Relations) detailed state restrictions – only approved products (non‑smokable), security requirements (guard during hours, 24/7 video/audio surveillance), zoning limitations (not in residential areas), and maximum of 9 licenses state‑wide (one per county). Councilmember Robinson expressed concern about oversaturation and youth exposure but believed the restrictions adequate. Councilmember Keith warned of secondary market risks and urged tracking of buyers and conversations with license holders. The ordinance passed with all present voting ‘aye.’ Street Resurfacing – Phase 1 (20E) - Resolution 22‑862 awarded an $8,539,000 contract to SJ&L General Contractors for resurfacing 103 residential streets – the largest such contract. - Public Works Director Chris McNeese explained the two‑year evaluation cycle, the vetting process with utilities, and how the list is built. Councilmembers Keith, Robinson, and Akridge pushed for better public communication of the ranking system and a possible online tool. The resolution was approved. Governor’s Drive Median Landscaping & Pedestrian Improvements (20H) - Resolution 22‑865 awarded a $1.5 million contract (funded by Choice Neighborhood Planning Initiative grant and city capital funds) to Lambert Contracting for beautification between Memorial Parkway and Clinton Avenue – a key corridor for the Choice Neighborhood (CNI) implementation grant. - Councilmember Keith asked whether funds could be better spent on Pinhook Creek, but staff noted FEMA timelines made the Governor’s Drive corridor the appropriate choice. The project will be complete by late spring 2023. Approved. Sandra Moon Community Center Phase 4 (20N) - Resolution 22‑871 authorized a $1,203,875 architectural services contract with KPS Group for renovation of 110,000 sq ft, including theater upgrades, event space, elevator, and dressing rooms. Phase 2 is under construction (late spring 2023 completion), Phase 3 design wrapping up. Dr. Robinson praised the accelerated timeline. Approved. Key Outcomes - Medical Cannabis Ordinance approved (unanimous voice vote with all present). Zoning restrictions to be introduced in November and voted on in December. - Street resurfacing contract awarded ($8.5 million, 103 streets; work to begin immediately with 15‑day notice to proceed). - Governor’s Drive landscaping contract awarded ($1.5 million; 180‑day construction period). - Sandra Moon Phase 4 design contract awarded ($1.2 million; construction expected summer 2023 after preceding phases complete). - All 13 public hearings on rezonings/amendments closed and ordinances adopted as presented. - Councilmember Frances Akridge honored by Mayor Battle and colleagues for her four years of service. She delivered farewell remarks and joked about “earning her small salary.” - Next meeting: Special session for President’s Forum on November 1 at 4 PM; regular meeting December 1.