Public Meetings - Tuscaloosa, Alabama

This meeting of the Tuscaloosa City Council on August 12, 2025, began at 5:00 PM and covered a range of administrative and planning items. The council reviewed several special retail license applications, an annexation request for McGrides Ferry Road, and numerous contracts and budget amendments. The mayor arrived late, and the meeting concluded with a motion to enter executive session. Consent Calendar - Approval of special retail license for two dollars in LLC, DVD 2005 at 1307 Bush Boulevard previously recommended unanimously by the planning commission. - Party Down LLC special retail licenses for seven-day events including: DK alumni tailgate 2025, 2025 raise the flag at 1202 cost and drive, and October Fest at 618 21st app. - Downtown Social LLC special retail license for seven-day events: UK alumni parent gang day tailgate at 416 University Boulevard and five gamma delta alumni parent gang tailgate at 976 university. Discussion Items - Annexation of McGrides Ferry Road: The city proposed annexing all acquired properties related to the project into the city limits. The primary expansion area had no staff issues, and the planning commission unanimously recommended approval. - Unfinished Business: The petitioner for residential amendment 11 has requested withdrawal; the item will be withdrawn. - Contracts and Approvals: Scott presented multiple items for authorization, including: public works contracts with private civil services ($43,500), left all the other communicable ($4,600), ship grip of construction company LLC ($5,800), data plus security LLC ($23,008.15), control and pooling LLC ($7,156.13); a contract with overcast defined studio for city signage ($15,750); amendment to a special engineering services contract with different associates LLC ($813,215); amendment for global fire sprinkler LLC for advanced fire extinguisher inspections ($15,750); public works contract with Sun Coast infrastructure for Third Avenue North Trunk Sewer Project ($153,148); recycling services contract with exact dynamics LLC (revenue to the city); professional services agreement with TTL for environmental assessment ($40,000); purchase from McSweeney Auto Group LLC for the Tuscaloosa National Airport ($70,120.20); purchase from Motoroler Solutions for Tuscaloosa Police Department ($27,278.14); authorization to negotiate purchase of three properties for flood drainage mitigation; amendment 16 to the FY 2025 general fund budget; job class specifications for water and sewer; amendment to exhibits A and B of section 1942 of the code of Tuscaloosa for water and sewer; and amendment 4 to the FY25 water and sewer fund budget. Upcoming Meetings - Planning and Zoning will meet next Monday at 5:00 PM. - Historic Preservation Commission meets tomorrow. Executive Session - A motion was made and seconded to enter executive session to discuss pending litigation and preliminary trade negotiations. The council unanimously voted in favor.

The Tuscaloosa City Council met on August 5, 2025, at 6:00 PM (approximate start time) to address routine approvals, a demolition public hearing, proclamations, and several consent agenda items. Mayor Walt Maddox presided, and all council members were present. Proclamations & Recognitions - National Farmers Market Week: Mayor Maddox proclaimed the week of August 5 as National Farmers Market Week in Tuscaloosa. Alexis Clark introduced the river market team (Maggie Porter, Tanette Ayers, Jennifer Stokes, Andrea Mate, Grayson Graves, Colin Patrick, Jeremiah Johnson). Clark noted the market serves 68 vendors and attracts approximately 3,000 visitors each Saturday. The team also hosts over 235 events annually, including 52 Saturday markets. The market accepts SNAP/EBT and offers a Double Up Food Bucks program (matching up to $40 for fresh fruits and vegetables). Peaches, tomatoes, and watermelons were highlighted as in-season produce. The market is also open on Tuesdays until 2 PM in June and July. - School Supplies from Parking Ticket Program: Jessica Stewart, Municipal Court Administrator, presented a school supply collection initiative that began in 2019. Since implementation, 4,500 supplies have been donated to city schools. This year, nearly 1,100 items were collected and 250 parking tickets were dismissed through the program (donating $10 in supplies per $19 ticket). The supplies were accepted by Khalisa Borman, Resource Manager at New Heights Community Resource Center, for distribution to students in need. Municipal court staff recognized: Haley Abbott (Assistant Court Administrator), Tracy Maddox (Principal Magistrate), Christy Porter (Principal Magistrate), Shay Byrd (Senior Magistrate), Katie Meggs (Senior Secretary), and Stephanie Lynn (Office Administrator). Public Hearing: Demolition of 2214 26th Avenue - Council member Williams presented the condemnation of the property at 2214 26th Avenue, which had 49 housing code violations. The owner, Catherine Taylor, appeared and stated her father was supposed to fix the property but could not. She asked about the process and costs. Council member Williams explained that if the city proceeds with demolition, the cost (labor, equipment, disposal) will be charged back to the owner as a lien, with a stated payment period. The owner was given the option to demolish the property herself within approximately 90 days before the city would begin work. Taylor expressed intent to hire her own contractor. No public comments for or against the demolition were made. The council voted unanimously (7-0) to order the demolition. Consent Agenda - The consent agenda, including items A, B, and the substitute for C, was adopted unanimously (7-0). These items were not individually discussed. Resolutions and Ordinances - Purchase from Southern Pipe and Supply: Authorized the purchase of equipment, supplies, or services from Southern Pipe and Supply. Adopted unanimously. - Withdrawal of Purchase from Wichitan Supply Company: Authorized withdrawal of a previously authorized purchase from Wichitan Supply Company. Adopted unanimously. - Appointment to Sister Cities Board: Appointed Gisela DeLoch to the Tuscaloosa Sister Cities International Board of Directors. Adopted unanimously. - Annexation (4.03 acres, Highway 69 South): Annexed approximately 4.03 acres located north of 9710 Highway 69 South and south of 9200 Highway 69 South into city limits. Adopted unanimously. - Annexation (1.8 acres, Burnt Pines Road): Annexed approximately 1.8 acres at 15104 Burnt Pines Road into city limits. Adopted unanimously. - Payment of Bills: Authorized payment of city bills. Adopted unanimously. Council Announcements - Council reminded members to meet at 8:30 AM Saturday morning at Jackson Avenue for a community event. Meeting Adjournment - The meeting adjourned unanimously (7-0) without further citizen comments or unfinished business.

The committee met on August 5, 2025, to discuss several personnel classifications and an ABC license application. Key items included the approval of two new or revised director positions in the Water and Sewer Department, a contested special retail liquor license for a venue on University Boulevard, and a proposal to create an Executive Director of Public Safety position. All items were passed out of committee, though the public safety position generated significant debate over timing and scope. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the previous meeting were unanimously approved. Personnel Classifications - Water and Sewer Director of Business Operations: The committee approved revisions to an existing utility services director classification, changing the title to better integrate customer service, financials, and building operations under one director. The position will fill an existing vacancy. (Motion carried unanimously.) - Linear Assets Director: A new classification was approved without immediate funding. This director will oversee the meter, collections, and distribution divisions, completing the top management structure for the Water and Sewer Department. Funding will be requested in the FY26 budget, with a target posting date of October 1, 2025. (Motion carried unanimously.) ABC License Application - Two Guys Bring You LLC – 1307 University Boulevard: The applicant originally sought a private club license but was asked to apply for a special retail liquor license instead, as recommended by the ABC Board. The venue has a fire marshal capacity of 1,499–1,500. Police Chief Blankwood expressed concerns about private parties and the large number of patrons (potentially 1,500) in an area already dense with bars. The applicant stated the higher capacity is necessary to attract national acts, and they have already booked 20 national acts. Councilmember Busby reiterated his earlier opposition, citing safety concerns and the recent approval of another bar nearby (adding 240–250 patrons). Other committee members noted the operators' strong record at Rounders. The motion to approve passed with a majority vote. Public Safety Executive Director - Executive Director of Public Safety Job Classification: The committee debated a proposal to create an executive director who would oversee the police department, fire department, emergency management, municipal security, and event planning. The position would be a direct report to the mayor and would have a pay grade of PF8 (step 1: $144,260.20; step 9: $175,701.25; step 15: $203,759.59). Supporters argued the role would improve coordination across public safety entities in a changing threat environment, while opponents (including Councilmember Busby) urged a slower approach, citing the need to study similar models in Auburn and Mobile before committing to a significant organizational change. Councilmember Williams noted the city has over 50 major events and millions of visitors annually, justifying enhanced coordination. The mayor indicated the position could be cost-neutral by repurposing existing budget resources. A motion to move the item forward passed 5–0, sending it to the finance committee for further discussion. Key Outcomes - Approved revised Water and Sewer Director of Business Operations classification. - Approved Linear Assets Director classification (unfunded, to be requested in FY26). - Approved special retail liquor license for Two Guys Bring You LLC (1307 University Boulevard). - Approved moving the Executive Director of Public Safety job classification to the finance committee with a 5–0 vote.

This meeting of the Tuscaloosa City Council Finance Committee focused on the fiscal year 2026 water and sewer capital and operating budgets, budget revisions, financing discussions for the Noah's Fork recommendation, and an update on bond issuances. Presentations were led by Mayor, Kimberly Michael (Water and Sewer), and Carly Standridge (Budget), followed by council discussion and action. Water and Sewer Capital Budget Overview Kimberly Michael presented a $7 million capital budget recommendation for water and sewer projects, funded by the 6% rate increase authorized in fiscal year 2021 and accumulated in a dedicated escrow account. This is in addition to the existing 10-year water and sewer plan. The proposal included six projects: - Mercedes Force Main Lift Station Engineering ($1.2 million): To engineer rehabilitation of lift stations 39, 40, 41, and 15 as part of a holistic approach to the force main system. - Water Resource Recovery Facility Phase III Improvements (cost not specified): Upgrades to aeration basin blower system and return activated sludge (RAS) system. - Hillcrest Tank Rehabilitation ($1.2 million): Painting and modifications to booster pump stations to allow the tank to be taken offline. - Remainder of Outfall Line at Fletcher Facility (cost not specified): Approximately 300 feet of additional outfall line requiring temporary bypass pumping. - Airport Runway Expansion Sewer Betterment ($400,000): Installation of a sewer casing under the runway for future expansion, not covered by FAA grant. - Line A Raw Water Main Repair (cost not specified): Repair of a 36-inch steel raw water main; in-house engineering with contractor construction. Carly Standridge explained the funding mechanism: the 6% rate increase is set aside annually, pays debt service for the 10-year plan, and the remaining balance funds new projects. Approximately $9.5 million had accumulated in the escrow, but about $8 million was used for pre-payment of bond-related expenses, to be reimbursed upon bond closing. The $7 million proposal represents the available balance thereafter. Council members asked clarifying questions about project selection and the relationship to the rate structure. The committee expressed support and indicated a desire to move it to a vote soon. Water and Sewer Operating Budget Overview Mayor presented the fiscal year 2026 operating budget, noting it was his 20th budget presentation. He highlighted improved metrics: salaries and benefits dropped from 27% of budget in 2007 to 21% today; debt service dropped from 30% to 16%. The budget proposed $86,057,113 in revenues and $86,952,439 in expenses, resulting in a budgeted deficit of $895,326 (which is significantly smaller than prior years due to strong revenue performance, and when depreciation is added back, the fund is cash-positive). Revenue assumptions include a 3% CPI increase and 6% capital increase per ordinance. Revenue growth of 21% is projected, driven by improved meter reading, billing accuracy, and identification of previously uncharged accounts (e.g., sewer charges for in-city customers, county surcharges) rather than volume increases. Kimberly Michael elaborated on AMI system contributions. Expense increases included $170,000 more in bad debt write-offs, IT costs for MUNIS upgrade, and a $2 million increase in depreciation to better reflect actual asset values. The budget also includes a 3% cost-of-living adjustment for non-public safety employees and an 8.3% health insurance increase (lower than initially projected). Debt service decreased by $302,811 due to maturing bonds. Council asked about the depreciation increase and confirmed it was based on actual asset data. Budget Revisions Item 3: Water and Sewer Budget Revision – Requested to use insurance proceeds from a vehicle incident to purchase two replacement fleet vehicles: $62,000 and $24,060. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously (voice vote). Item 4: General Fund Reserve Budget Revision – To close out two projects (Wanting Drive Phase II with $382,596 remaining and Public Safety Logistics Center with $500,000 under budget) and transfer those funds ($882,596 total) to the Neighborhood Drainage project for protective buyouts, as earlier reviewed in the projects committee. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously. Noah's Fork Recommendation Financing Discussion The committee discussed how to finance the Noah's Fork recommendation projects (long-term drainage and infrastructure). Options included a line of credit (LOC) or borrowing in advance. Council member requested staff research different LOC structures from local banking partners without committing to a specific product, while also exploring internal cash availability to self-finance short-term needs. It was agreed to separate project scope discussions (to be handled in the projects committee) from financing discussions (in finance committee). Staff will prepare information on cash availability and LOC product variations. No vote was taken. Bond Issuance Update An update was given on the recent bond sale: the 30-year tax-exempt bonds were sold at approximately 4.8% interest rate, which was slightly higher than a prior issuance but favorable given market conditions. The annual debt service payment is about $119,000 less than projected in the 10-year plan and $16,000 less than budgeted. The A and C series closed on the meeting date, and the D series will close on August 26 after a council vote on August 12. Key Outcomes - The Water and Sewer capital budget ($7 million) was reviewed with general support; a formal vote is expected soon. - The Water and Sewer operating budget was presented; detailed hearings will occur in August and September. - Budget Revision 3 (water and sewer vehicle purchase) passed unanimously. - Budget Revision 4 (general fund reserve transfer for drainage) passed unanimously. - Staff will research line of credit structures and internal cash availability for Noah's Fork financing; further discussion scheduled. - Bond issuance successful; closing of remaining series scheduled.

The Finance Committee of the Tuscaloosa City Council met on August 5, 2025, at 7:31 PM to consider 14 agenda items and hold additional discussion on lake regulations. All agenda items were approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Item 1 – Protective Buyouts on Academy Drive: Mr. Crow and Mr. Gardner recommended voluntary protective buyouts for three properties (641 Stone River, 636 Stone River, and a property on Antietam) due to repeated flooding even after planned drainage improvements. Funding would come from budget amendments and the neighborhood drainage fund. The council discussed coordinating with the HOA to create pocket parks. Approved. - Item 2 – Trunk Sewer Repair: Mr. Curry presented a $163,148 contract to Suncoast Infrastructure for a 24-inch clay trunk line repair near Third Avenue North, funded from the water sewer special project rehab account (balance $1.2M). Approved. - Item 3 – Raw Meter Replacement: A $43,500 contract to Price Civil Services to replace a 12-inch raw water meter at Southern Ionics, funded from meter capital repairs ($100,000). Approved. - Item 4 – Sewer Rehab Change Order: A $121,348.39 change order for reactive sewer repairs, based on average monthly costs of $37,000, to cover the remainder of the fiscal year. Approved. - Item 5 – Electronics Recycling Contract: A two-year $2,400/year contract with DAC Dynamics for recycling electronics; the city is paid. Approved. - Item 6 – Resurfacing Deductive Change Order: A $302,002.80 deductive change order for the 2024 citywide resurfacing project; savings will be used for future resurfacing contingencies. Approved. - Item 7 – Northern River Walk Phase Two Engineering Amendment: A $65,375 amendment to McGibbert & Associates for property acquisition support and route adjustments, bringing the total to $813,215. The amendment does not include construction-phase services; a future amendment is expected. Approved. - Item 8 – TPD Air Compressor Replacement: A $4,660 contract to All Metal Mechanical to remove and reinstall an air compressor at police headquarters, funded by TPD outside services. Approved. - Item 9 – HVAC Unit in Annex 1: A $7,156.13 contract to Control Climate for an HVAC unit to protect access control equipment, funded by the CFG five-year plan. Approved. - Item 10 – Drive-Through Renovation at Annex 3: A $23,008.15 contract to Data Plus Security to replace the pneumatic tube system in the water business drive-through, funded by water sewer facility renewal. Approved. - Item 11 – Monument Signs Design: A $15,751 contract to Overcash Design Studio for architectural and engineering design of two welcome signs (on McFarland Boulevard and in Alberta), including construction-phase services. Council discussed potential for additional signs. Approved. - Item 12 – Office Upgrades: A $5,800 contract for touch-up paint, interior window modifications, and casework at XP quartering, funded by city hall facility improvements. Approved. - Item 13 – Fire Sprinkler Contract Amendment: An $8,200 increase (to $16,750) for additional fire extinguisher inspections and replacements. Fire Chief Mark answered questions about costs. Approved. - Item 14 – Environmental Assessment Services: A professional services agreement with PTL for NEPA environmental assessments for the Office of Community and Neighborhood Services, funded by CDBG. Approved. Additional Discussion – Lake Tuscaloosa Wake Boat Regulations Councilman raised concerns about property damage from wake boats on Lake Tuscaloosa, noting erosion of retaining walls and docks. Mark (fire chief) and Scott Hollins are working on modified regulations that would designate areas where wake boats are allowed or prohibited. Enforcement was discussed, including plans to add two officers to the lake patrol. The committee scheduled a presentation on this topic for August 26, 2025, after the budget process. Council also mentioned inquiries about docking at the Mama Bell site, referring those to Tom Bobbit. Key Outcomes - All 14 agenda items were approved unanimously by voice vote with no dissenting votes recorded. - The committee agreed to schedule a detailed discussion on Lake Tuscaloosa wake boat regulations for August 26, 2025.

The city council held a regular meeting on August 5, 2025, addressing routine approvals, two annexation requests, a procurement correction, and a preview of groundbreaking ceremonies for the Tuscaloosa children's center project. The meeting also included a brief update on a distressed property on 26th Avenue. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The council approved the minutes of the previous meeting by voice vote (motion, second, and oral approval). Discussion Items - 26th Avenue Property (Mr. Williams): The owner of a house on 26th Avenue has expressed a desire to save the structure but has not pulled a permit for repairs. City staff noted the property is in dire condition and that demolition would likely be more economical. The owner's father, who lives behind the property, advised against investing further. The council took no action, pending the owner's potential appearance. - Annexation 1 (Highway 69 South – Nathan 69): Staff presented a pre-zoned annexation of four lots at the corner of Nathan and Highway 69 South. The intended use (including quick-service restaurants) conforms to the framework and future land use character map. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended unanimous approval. No council questions or objections were raised; approval was presumed. - Annexation 2 (15104 Burn Pines Road – Schools): A 1.8-acre parcel on Burn Pines Road, adjacent to Lake Tuscaloosa (city limits), is being annexed to allow children in that area to attend city schools. The property is in a future expansion area, and the annexation petition had no issues. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended unanimous approval. Council discussed that many nearby homes are being annexed individually for school access. - Procurement & Appointments: - Page 8: Authorization to purchase a 12 H4 valve for $18,655 (previously budgeted). - Page 9: Item withdrawn. - Page 10: Appointment of Gisela Loach to the Sister Cities International Board of Directors (individual sheet provided). - A consent agenda item was substituted due to a calculation error in the dollar amount on a resolution; the council confirmed they are accepting the lowest responsible bid (the error was corrected). - Groundbreaking Ceremony (Tuscaloosa Children's Center): Staff outlined logistics for the groundbreaking ceremony on August 6, 2025: attendees will gather at the River Market (Visit Tuscaloosa side) at 10:30 a.m., be transported to the Tuscaloosa News site for a ceremonial photo with Governor Kay Ivey and the Saban family, then return to the River Market for the official event. The council expressed excitement about the project, which has grown to over $100 million (including $25 million in private donations). Mayor Maddox credited council support and contributions from the State, Alabama Power, Mercedes-Benz, and others. He emphasized that the project would not have been possible without the council's faith. The event is invite-only due to space constraints; the Savers Center will be open to the public in the future. Key Outcomes - Approved the minutes of the previous meeting. - Unanimously advanced the two annexation requests (no formal vote recorded but staff noted unanimous recommendations and no council objections). - Authorized the purchase of the 12 H4 valve and corrected the dollar amount on a related procurement resolution; accepted the lowest responsible bid. - Appointed Gisela Loach to the Sister Cities International Board. - Acknowledged the groundbreaking ceremony plans for August 6, 2025, and celebrated the community partnerships behind the children's center.

The Tuscaloosa City Council convened on July 29, 2025, at approximately 9:58 PM (UTC) to address routine approvals, several public hearings, and administrative resolutions. All items on the agenda were approved unanimously, often with brief discussions. Consent Calendar - Approval of the minutes from the previous meeting (motioned, seconded, and passed unanimously). - Consent agenda Items A through C were adopted. The motion did not require unanimous consent, and the vote was recorded with one "No" vote (councilor Lanier) but ultimately passed. Public Hearings - Retail Beer License (Off-Premises) – Shop and Go: Application 25-037A for Momentum Investments Inc. d/b/a Shop and Go (1800 Crescent Ridge Road NE, Suite A). Hours: Sunday 10 a.m.–9 p.m., Monday–Saturday 5 a.m.–11 p.m. Police had no objections. Applicant Johnny Jones (Hoover, AL) confirmed a change of ownership. No public comments. Approved unanimously. - Retail Table Wine License (Off-Premises) – Shop and Go: Application 25-037B for the same location (Suite A). Same applicant and reports. Approved unanimously. - Class 2 Package Lounge Retail Liquor License – Shop and Go: Application 25-03A for Suite B (Holt Package Store). Applicant stated he operates 70+ package stores; this was a change of ownership. No public comments. Approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Demolition Order for 2603 22nd Street: The property had 40 housing code violations and was condemned on May 19, 2025. Owner Felicia Garry expressed concern about losing the property and asked about time to retrieve personal belongings. City staff stated the process takes approximately 120 days, and the cost of demolition will be billed to the owner, with a lien possible if unpaid. The council recommended demolition, and the owner was assured of prior notice before demolition occurs. Approved unanimously. - Zoning Amendment 15 – Rezone to Highway Commercial: Request by Huffman Real Estate Services to rezone 4.03 acres north of 9710 Highway 69 South (Council District 2) to Highway Commercial (HC). The site will be divided into four lots and later annexed. It conforms to the Future Land Use Character Map. Representative Jimmy Duncan (Duncan Coker Associates) indicated tentative plans for two lots to be quick-service restaurants. No public comments. Approved unanimously. - Bridge Naming Ceremony: Councilor Crow announced that the newly constructed bridge on Bright’s Ferry Road spanning North River will be named in honor of LeWoy and Ruth McAvee, with an official ceremony expected in September 2025. Key Outcomes - All public hearing items (liquor licenses, demolition, zoning) were approved unanimously, with each vote recorded as 7-0. - Several resolutions were adopted without debate: - As-needed services contracts with Awesome Towing LLC and Fred Robertson Record Service Inc. - Minor public works contract with Sports 12 LLC and an amendment with John Wayne Plumbing and Drain Service Co. - Funding agreement for the Tuscaloosa Municipal Court Referral Officer Program. - Job class specifications for the municipal court. - Permissive use agreement for Southern Alehouse. - Appointment of Fire Chief Mark Delk as city representative to the E911 Commission. - Right-of-way permit to Mary Harmon Round Tree Young. - Appointment of Thomas Sepo to the Jamison Vanegraf Foundation Board of Directors was approved. - Payment of bills was authorized. - The meeting adjourned without any public comments or mayoral vetoes.

On July 29, 2025, the Tuscaloosa City Council held a work session to discuss short-term and long-term drainage projects. Mayor Walt Maddox and city staff presented a two-part recommendation: a Neighborhood Drainage Fund for immediate projects (12-18 months) and NOAA's Arc 2.0, a $45.7 million bond initiative for larger, long-term drainage improvements. The presentation included rainfall data showing a 27% increase in thunderstorm intensity since the 1950s in Alabama. Discussion Items - Neighborhood Drainage Fund – Mayor Maddox reported the current fund balance is $3.5 million, with an additional $3 million recently added by the council. He proposed reallocating $382,000 from the Juanita Drive project and $500,000 from public safety logistics, bringing the total to $4.38 million for the following projects: - Northampton ($800,000) – alternate storm pipe route to reduce roadway flooding; design 80% complete. - Bellevue Drive ($500,000) – replacement of a collapsed 72-inch corrugated metal pipe (CMP) and lining of remaining pipe; bids to be received next week. - Academy Drive Protective Buyouts ($1.2 million) – voluntary buyouts of three properties that flooded even with planned improvements; appraisals already completed. - 36th Avenue East & Rainbow Drive – CMP replacement with reinforced concrete pipe. - Waterfall neighborhood – install storm sewer to capture runoff before it overtops driveways. - Oakdell phase 3 – concrete lining of earthen ditches. - Beverly Heights – improve storm pipe capacity and ditch improvements. City Engineer Mike Gardner noted most of these projects are nearly emergency status and have been on the list for a long time. - NOAA's Arc 2.0 – Mayor Maddox proposed a $45.7 million bond issue, primarily funded through the elevate program, with estimated debt service of $2.8–$2.9 million per year for 30 years. The bond would not be issued until 2027 or 2028 to allow for engineering and design; a $15 million line of credit would be used for early work. The recommended projects are: - Academy Drive/Stone River/Manassas/Fredericksburg ($3.75 million) – highest priority due to isolating 27 homes and structural flooding; includes culvert replacement, channel improvements, and CMP lining. - Eastover ($2.5 million) – flooding at 36th/37th/38th Streets; CMP replacement and ditch improvements. - 10th Avenue & 19th Street ($6.8 million) – flooding from Central High School area; pipe replacement, inlet capacity, channel stabilization. - Heritage Hills phase 1 ($1.1 million) – roadway flooding and home damage; possible buyout option under study. - Cypress Creek phases 2 & 3 (combined $9.6 million for phase 3) – stream bank stabilization, channel protection, and infrastructure improvements. - Rosewood Linwood ($2.5 million) – concrete lining of remaining channel. - Riggs Road & 31st Street East – concrete lining of ditches and drainage improvements. - Lincoln Park – curb and gutter installation with proper storm drainage. Additionally, $5 million was set aside for contingency, property buyouts, and grant matching. - Council Questions and Discussion – Council members asked about the Gardner scale used to prioritize projects (based on travel impediments, public infrastructure impact, nuisance disruption, and significant resident/business hardship). Mayor Maddox acknowledged the recommendation does not strictly follow the engineer's order but balances citywide needs. Councilman asked about the buyout process and confirmed appraisals are done. Councilman inquired about a grant for Groups Mill Creek (not awarded). Councilman noted Taylor Circle and other areas were considered but not included due to cost-effectiveness or potential buyout options. The mayor encouraged further discussions and emphasized the council can reorder projects. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken; the work session was informational. - The council will consider the Neighborhood Drainage Fund projects for approval at upcoming public projects and finance committee meetings. - The NOAA's Arc 2.0 proposal will be discussed further in additional work sessions, with the council deciding on the scope, funding mechanism, and project list. - The mayor recommended prioritizing the smaller neighborhood drainage projects first to achieve quick impacts, then moving to the larger bond-funded initiatives.

This meeting of the Tuscaloosa City Council on July 29, 2025, covered several administrative and land-use items, including alcohol license transfers, a demolition order, a rezoning request, and multiple service contracts. The council also introduced a new Office of Cultural Affairs (OCA) staff member, discussed upcoming events, and entered an executive session for legal consultation. Consent Calendar - Authorized an admissions services contract with All Cloud OLC, not to exceed $8,000 (page 13). - Authorized a new services contract with Robertson's Director of Service, a federal model (page 14). - Authorized a minor public works contract with Support 12 LLC, totaling $6,592 (page 15). - Authorized amendment number one to a public works contract with John Wade Plumbing and Drain Service for FY25 plumbing services; total amended compensation $30,000 (page 16). - Authorized the mayor to execute a funding agreement with the Alabama Administrative Office of Courts for the 2025–2026 Municipal Court Referral Officer Program (page 17). - Approved job class specifications from a civil service report (page 18). - Authorized a permissive use agreement with SAH DSLLC (doing business as Southern House) for a dockside location on the lake, previously discussed in public safety (page 19). - Named the newly constructed bridge on McGrice Ferry Road spanning North River in honor of Leroy and Luke Packerty, initially presented on July 1 (page 20). - Approved appointment of Tuscaloosa Fire and Rescue Chief Mark Bell to the E-911 Commission of Tuscaloosa County Emergency Management and Communications as the city representative (page 21). - Authorized the mayor to execute a right-of-way permit to Mary Harmon Roundtree Young as trustee of DMC Roundtree Barber (page 22). Discussion Items - Alcohol License Transfers: Tony presented two change-of-ownership applications for Momentum Investment doing business as Shop and Vote (retail beer and wine at 1800 Press Street) and Momentum Investment doing business as Shop and Go Hope (located near the 70s block). The council approved the transfers, noting they were routine. - Demolition Order: A property at 2603 22nd Street was discussed. The owner’s intentions were unknown; the building and all accessory structures are in rough condition and recommended for demolition. The council approved the demolition order. - Rezoning Request: A request to pre-zone approximately four acres at Highway 69 South (the corner of May and 69 South) to highway commercial was presented. The property, currently a vacant lot, is being split into five lots, with four lots adjacent to Highway 69 to be annexed into the city next week. The Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously endorsed the pre-zoning, and it conforms to the framework. The owner is Huffman Real Estate Services. The council approved the rezoning. - New Hire Introduction: Megan Smalley was introduced as the new U.S. attorney in the Office of Cultural Affairs (OCA), replacing Kim (who left in March). She previously worked in the general counsel’s office at DCH. Upcoming Events & Announcements - Next council session: July 30, 2025, from 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM. - Police and Fire Pension Board meeting: Monday, August 11, 2025, at 9:00 AM. - Groundbreaking ceremony for the Savings Center: Wednesday at 10:30 AM, meeting at the River Market with shuttle service to the site for a photo, then returning for speeches and celebration. Executive Session - The council moved into executive session to discuss legal options regarding litigation not yet filed but imminently likely to be litigated. The motion passed unanimously with seven votes in favor.