The Pell City Police Department invites residents to its 2025 Citizen Academy, a six-week program offering an in-depth look at police operations. Held Tuesdays from May 6th to June 10th, 6-9 PM, the academy covers topics like patrol, investigations, crime scene processing, SWAT, and legal matters. Participants will also experience a jail tour and mock court trial.
“It’s always great when we get to talk about what the Department does,” said Pell City Police Chief Clay Morris. “But it’s more important that our citizens get to experience it for themselves.”
The objective of the Citizen Academy is not to train participants to become police officers, but rather to foster a greater understanding of the diverse responsibilities of law enforcement officers and the crucial role the community plays in crime prevention and resolution. There is no charge to attend the academy.
Reflecting on her experience in the 2024 Citizen Academy, attendee Rotunda Foreman shared, “The Citizen Police Academy was an eye-opening experience. Our police department gave me the opportunity to see inside their lives on duty. It’s something everyone should experience.”
Lauren Quesenberry, another 2024 participant, said, “I got to see what police work is really like, do hands-on activities, and even go on a few ride-alongs. It gave me a whole new respect for law enforcement and how much they do for our community. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone interested in police work!”
Angela St. John, a 2024 attendee, added, “The entire program was insightful, well thought out, and well executed. I thoroughly enjoyed shooting range and training facility in Hoover, but truthfully, I can’t think of one thing that I would change.”
Requirements: Applicants must be 18+, attend all sessions, and pass a limited background check. Enrollment is limited to 15 participants, accepted first-come, first-served.
On March 31, the City of Pell City contracted with Wiregrass Construction Company to resurface Industrial Park Drive. Weather permitting, the project is expected to begin on Sunday, April 6th, 2025 at 6 p.m. and will be completed April 25th, 2025.
Work will begin on Industrial Park Drive from the intersection of Pleasant Valley Road to the termination point at Comer Avenue. The standard work schedule for the company will be Sunday evenings through Thursday evenings from 6 p.m.-6 a.m. Some work may be conducted on Friday evenings during the project.
The first week of the project will consist of milling and patching. Leveling and installation of the wearing surface will occur the following weeks.
Wiregrass Construction Company is responsible for traffic control during the project. The company will coordinate with impacted businesses to minimize interruptions.
The Greater Birmingham Humane Society (GBHS) is proud to announce that it has officially assumed management of the Pell City Animal Care and Control Facility. This strategic partnership marks an exciting new chapter in animal welfare across Central Alabama.
By bringing GBHS’s proven expertise and resources to Pell City, this collaboration will enhance animal care standards, expand community outreach, and strengthen the regional network of support for homeless, abused, and neglected animals.
“This partnership is more than a management change—it’s a shared commitment to compassionate care and community-driven solutions,” said Allison Black Cornelius, CEO of GBHS. “Working together with Pell City leadership and residents, we have the opportunity to not only improve services but to create a model of excellence that benefits animals and the people who love them.”
With more than a century of experience in animal welfare, GBHS will bring its established programs in education, advocacy, veterinary support, and cruelty prevention to the Pell City facility. The organization is eager to engage local volunteers, leaders, and animal advocates to ensure every pet receives the care and dignity it deserves.
“We are thrilled to welcome the Greater Birmingham Humane Society to Pell City,” Mayor Bill Pruitt said. “Their established history of compassionate animal care and their mission to promote humane treatment align seamlessly with our community’s values. We are confident that this partnership will bring enhanced services and a brighter future for the animals of Pell City.”
This partnership underscores GBHS’s dedication to innovation and leadership in animal services and reflects a shared vision with Pell City to improve the lives of animals across Alabama. Pell City and St. Clair County residents may begin using the www.gbhs.org website to look for adoptable pets or lost pets on April 2nd. We greatly appreciate the community’s patience during this transitional time.
About Greater Birmingham Humane Society:
The Greater Birmingham Humane Society (GBHS), founded in 1883, is the largest and oldest humane society in Alabama with a mission of “promoting the humane treatment of people and animals through education, advocacy, and services.” The GBHS provides a wide range of services to the community, including adoptions, animal cruelty investigations, humane education, pet surrendering, and disaster preparation, as well as a Pet Pantry where struggling pet owners are provided food for their pet.
The City of Pell City and the Pell City Board of Education Steering Committee are thrilled to announce the overwhelming success of the recent application process for appointment to the Pell City Board of Education. The application process drew 47 applicants, far surpassing expectations and showing significant community interest in education.
This interest exceeds the cumulative number of candidates who qualified to run for the elected Board of Education, which was in place from 1992-2024. The Pell City Board of Education was established in 1982 and was initially appointed by the City Council.
“This is exactly what we hoped for,” said Mayor Bill Pruitt. “We aimed to attract the best and brightest candidates from our city and the Pell City Schools Attendance Zone, individuals who are passionate about serving our students but may not have had an interest in the political election process. The response has been remarkable.”
Pell City Board of Education Steering Committee
The Steering Committee is equally enthusiastic about the exceptional quality of the applicant pool. While expressing gratitude to all who dedicated their time and effort to apply, the Committee acknowledges that not all applicants will be recommended.
“While we wish we could recommend each of the applicants for appointment, we want to emphasize that your continued participation and investment in our schools are invaluable, regardless of the outcome of this particular selection process,” Steering Committee Chair Kelly Furgerson said. “The application process will be open again annually, providing future opportunities to serve.”
This unique circumstance, resulting from a November 2024 referendum returning the Board to an appointed body, involves the City Council filling five seats in 2025. The Steering Committee requests public patience as they navigate this process.
The Committee, in its most recent meeting, concluded that the public can anticipate public interviews at a later date. However, procedural details are currently being finalized. Updates regarding interview schedules and procedures will be released as soon as they are available.
The City of Pell City and the Steering Committee are committed to a transparent and fair selection process and are grateful for the community’s continued support and engagement.
We are aware of significant traffic delays currently being experienced by the public on US Highway 231 North. This is due to an ongoing paving project being conducted by the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT), who is responsible for the maintenance of State routes.
The paving work, which began near Dr. John Haynes Drive in Pell City, included the milling of existing asphalt, which has disabled the traffic signal loops, which detect the presence of vehicles and allow the signal to operate dynamically. While the paving work itself is being conducted at night (after 7 p.m.), the impacted traffic signal loops cannot be repaired until the paving in this area is completed. This will unfortunately lead to continued traffic disruptions in the area for several more days.
We understand the inconvenience this is causing. We have communicated the severity of these issues to ALDOT and have requested that they expedite the repair of the signal loops.
Please exercise patience and consider utilizing alternate routes in the coming days to minimize delays. We will provide further updates as they become available, including a more precise timeline for the completion of the signal loop repairs.
Pell City is set to become a premier dining destination as Darden Restaurants, a global leader in full-service dining, officially broke ground on March 18, 2025, on a new Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse.
This highly anticipated project, valued at over $6 million, is the result of a dynamic partnership between Darden Restaurants, I-20 Development, the City of Pell City, and the St. Clair County Commission. The spirit of collaboration was present at the groundbreaking ceremony, held on the development site located at the intersection of US Highway 231 and Hazelwood Drive, adjacent to the I-20 West ramp.
From left: Pell City Council Member Ivi Wilson, Member Jason Mitcham, Member Jay Jenkins, Mayor Bill Pruitt, Council President Jud Alverson, Developer Bill Ellison, City Manager Brian Muenger, and EDC Executive Director Don Smith at the March 18, 2025 Groundbreaking for Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse.
“This is a ‘we thing,’ not a ‘me thing,’” said Bill Ellison, President of I-20 Development, who spearheaded the project. “It’s been a total team effort, and I want to compliment the City and County for their commitment and cooperation. As long as we can keep these relationships in place, there are limitless possibilities for what comes next.”
The new restaurants are projected to generate a combined $10 million in annual sales for Pell City, significantly boosting the local economy. Moreover, they will create numerous job opportunities for area residents and enrich the city’s dining scene with diverse culinary options, attracting visitors from across the region.
Darden Restaurants, renowned for its commitment to exceptional dining experiences, operates over 2,100 locations worldwide. In Alabama alone, the company employs more than 3,300 team members across its 38 existing locations.
“It’s a tremendous feeling to know that these businesses that have so many choices on where to locate choose make their investment in our community,” said Bill Pruitt, Mayor of Pell City. They recognize that this is a special place to be. We’re grateful for the work of Bill Ellison and for the County Commission’s partnership, and we’re honored to welcome Olive Garden and LongHorn into the Pell City family.”
From left: Commissioner Bob Mize, Mayor Pruitt, Don Smith, Commission Chair Stan Batemon, Ellison, and Commissioner Ricky Parker.
The Pell City restaurants will uphold Darden’s high standards, offering the beloved menus and inviting atmospheres that have made Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse favorites. Guests can look forward to indulging in Olive Garden’s signature pasta dishes, soups, salads, and breadsticks, or savoring LongHorn Steakhouse’s expertly grilled steaks, sides, and appetizers. Both locations will also feature full-service bars and delectable desserts.
“This entire project is exciting,” St. Clair County Commission Chairman Stan Batemon said. “Bill Ellison saw a vision over here, and myself and the other Commissioners are grateful for his and the City’s work in bringing these restaurants to St. Clair County.”
The Pell City locations are expected to open in 2026.
About Olive Garden
Olive Garden, a cornerstone of Darden Restaurants, offers a warm and inviting dining experience centered around classic Italian-American cuisine. Known for its generous portions and family-friendly atmosphere, Olive Garden is celebrated for signature dishes like its unlimited soup, salad, and breadsticks, as well as its wide array of pasta, chicken, and seafood entrees. With a focus on creating a sense of “famiglia,” Olive Garden provides a comfortable space for guests to gather and enjoy a satisfying meal, whether for a casual lunch, a celebratory dinner, or any occasion in between.
About LongHorn Steakhouse
LongHorn Steakhouse, a proud member of the Darden Restaurants family, delivers a distinctive and memorable steakhouse experience. Renowned for its expertly grilled steaks, cooked to perfection, LongHorn also offers a diverse menu featuring flavorful chicken, seafood, and ribs. With a warm, inviting atmosphere inspired by the rugged spirit of the American West, guests can enjoy hearty meals and generous portions, complemented by friendly service. From signature steaks like the Outlaw Ribeye to classic sides and desserts, LongHorn Steakhouse provides a casual yet satisfying dining destination for steak enthusiasts and families alike.
A significant severe weather event is expected to impact Pell City beginning the evening of Friday, March 14, and lasting through the day on Saturday, March 15. The National Weather Service Birmingham anticipates widespread thunderstorms producing large hail, damaging winds, and tornadoes.
STORM SHELTERS
Two storm shelters in Pell City will be open to the public – the St. Clair County Courthouse and the Center for Education and Performing Arts. Shelters will open when a tornado watch is issued for our area. The CEPA Shelter, which is located on the north side of the building, will be open all day on Saturday, March 15, beginning at 8 a.m.
Storm Shelter: St. Clair County Courthouse
Storm Shelter: Pell City Center for Education and Performing Arts (CEPA)
Only registered service animals are permitted in the CEPA shelter.
Friday, 3/14 4 PM: Scattered showers develop over Louisiana and Arkansas
Friday, 3/14 10 PM: Scattered showers move east of the Mississippi River and develop into scattered severe thunderstorms.
Saturday, 3/15 2 AM: Severe thunderstorms move into Alabama and central Tennessee.
Saturday, 3/15 4 AM: Severe thunderstorms are expected to move into central Alabama.
Saturday, 3/15 5 AM: Widespread severe weather moves into central and eastern Alabama.
Timeline of Second Round of Severe Weather
Saturday, 3/15 7 AM: Scattered severe thunderstorms are expected to be ongoing across Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee. A line of severe thunderstorms will develop across far western Louisiana.
Saturday, 3/15 12 PM: The line of severe thunderstorms will move east of the Mississippi River with conditions clearing out to the west. Scattered severe weather will continue east of the line.
Saturday, 3/15 5 PM: The line of severe thunderstorms crosses into Alabama and central Tennessee.
Saturday, 3/15 10 PM: The line of severe thunderstorms crosses into Georgia and eastern Tennessee.
Preparation is key
From the National Weather Service Birmingham: The links below will help you find out what you can do now to prepare for a tornado. Preparation is key to staying safe and minimizing impacts.
Be Weather-Ready: Check the forecast regularly to see if you’re at risk for tornadoes. Listen to local news or a NOAA Weather Radio to stay informed about tornado watches and warnings. Check the Weather-Ready Nation for tips.
Sign Up for Notifications: Know how your community sends warnings. Some communities have outdoor sirens. Others depend on media and smart phones to alert residents of severe storms capable of producing tornadoes.
Create a Communications Plan: Have a family plan that includes an emergency meeting place and related information. If you live in a mobile home or home without a basement, identify a nearby safe building you can get too quickly, such as a church or family member.
Pick a safe room in your home, such as a basement, storm cellar, or an interior room on the lowest floor with no windows. Check more ideas for your family plan at: https://www.ready.gov/make-a-plan
Practice Your Plan: Conduct a family severe thunderstorm drill regularly so everyone knows what to do if a tornado is approaching. Make sure all members of your family know to go there when tornado warnings are issued. Don’t forget pets if time allows.
Prepare Your Home: Consider having your safe room reinforced. You can find plans for reinforcing an interior room to provide better protection on the Federal Emergency Management Agency website.
Help Your Neighbor: Encourage your loved ones to prepare for the possibility of tornadoes. Take CPR training so you can help if someone is hurt.
In March 2025, residents of Pell City’s Glen City District were surprised when one of the most desirable properties in the neighborhood suddenly changed hands. They were even more surprised by the cost – only $30,000.
Without the documentation needed to secure the property following the passing of its owners, it went into foreclosure to satisfy the debts against it. Then, the property sold without much fanfare, its future unknown to its neighbors.
This experience isn’t an outlier in Pell City’s District 2, which has the highest rates of heirs’ property issues – family land – and has seen the lowest rate of new home construction in recent years.
Led by District 2 City Council Member Ivi Wilson, the City of Pell City will hold an informational meeting on April 12 at 1 p.m. at the Municipal Complex to discuss both the present and future of some of the City’s historic neighborhoods. Investing in the Future of D2 will feature presentations and discussions on how residents can protect, maintain, and develop property in their community.
Presenters include
Don Smith: executive Director, St. Clair County Economic Development Council. Presenting on: The Basics of Development
Dr. Jamie C. Mardis: Instructional Programs Outreach Administrator, Auburn University Extension. Presenting on: Heirs’ Property Ownership (click for more)
Brian Muenger and Ivi Wilson: Pell City City Manager and District 2 Council Member. Presenting on: New Home Construction in D2
All areas of municipal government will attend the meeting and be available to answer resident questions. All City residents are invited to join the discussion.
“Your presence matters,” said Council Member Ivi Wilson. “Please join us to help shape the future of our District. This is your opportunity to directly influence a plan and ensure it reflects the needs and aspirations of our residents.”
The Logan Martin Lake Protection Association (LMLPA) is gearing up for its annual lake cleanup, scheduled for March 29th through April 5th, 2025. This week-long effort encourages volunteers to help preserve the beauty and health of Logan Martin Lake.
Volunteers can register and pick up cleanup supplies, including T-shirts, collection bags, and gloves, at designated collection sites on two Saturdays: March 29th and April 5th, from 8:00 AM to noon.
“Maintaining the beauty and health of Logan Martin Lake isn’t a task for a few, it’s a responsibility we all share,” said LMLPA President Neal Stephenson. “The incredible turnout we see each year proves that when our community comes together, we can make a truly significant impact. Every bag of trash collected, every volunteer hour given, contributes to preserving this vital resource for generations to come.”
The cleanup will feature multiple collection sites around the lake, each with a designated Site Captain to assist volunteers. These locations include:
Lakeside Park: 2801 Stemley Bridge Rd. Cropwell AL 35054 (Site Captains: Isabella Trussel (205) 936-6651, Terry Harrell (205) 572-2658)
Clear Creek Marina: 270 Marina Dr, Talladega, AL 35160 (Site Captain: Randy Sparks (205) 616-2787)
Riverside Landing: 230 Depot St., Riverside, AL 35135 (Site Captain: Dee Parsons (205) 602-4245)
Wood’s Surfside Marina: 37 Marina Dr., Cropwell, AL 35054 (Site Captain: TBD, Mark Hildebrandt, Woods Surfside (205) 525-5533)
Blue I Eatery (old Caribe Club): 84 Blue Eye Rd W, Lincoln, AL 35096 (Site Captain: David Carboni (205) 910-2234)
Coosa Island Marina: 1052 Coosa Island Rd, Cropwell, AL 35054 (Site Captain: Angela Buzbee (205) 643-5991)
Cleanup Site Coordinators Arlene Johnson (205) 369-3703, arlenejg0917@gmail.com and Danny Norman (205) 451-2035, tr3hgr@yahoo.com can also be contacted for assistance and information.
The annual cleanup is a significant undertaking, with the 2024 event seeing over 335 volunteers collect more than 11 tons of debris from the lake. The LMLPA encourages everyone to participate in this important effort to maintain the beauty and ecological health of Logan Martin Lake.
Logan Martin Lake, part of the Coosa River System, is a 17,000-acre reservoir with 275 miles of shoreline, offering recreational opportunities such as boating, skiing, and swimming.
Pell City residents will have the opportunity to declutter and dispose of unwanted items during the city’s annual Spring Clean-Up, scheduled for April 4th through 6th.
The event will run Friday, April 4th and Saturday, April 5th from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Sunday, April 6th from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Roll-off dumpsters will be available at the Pell City Street Department, located at 417 19th Street South, next to the Boys and Girls Club. Residents within city limits can bring household items, old appliances, scrap metal, and furniture.
ACCEPTED: Yard debris will also be accepted during this weekend only.
NOT ACCEPTED: Hazardous waste, including propane tanks, batteries, paint, used oils, and tires, will not be accepted. Construction materials such as lumber, fencing, and drywall are also prohibited.
In addition to the dumpsters, designated boxes will be available for electronic waste (E-Waste), including audio/video equipment, computers, cell phones, small appliances, and more. Properly disposing of e-waste is crucial to prevent toxic materials from leaching into the environment and to recover valuable resources for reuse.
A photo ID is required to use these services. For further information, residents can contact the Pell City Street Department at (205) 884-8267 or email jclemons@cityofpellcity.net.
