Important Information: Winter Weather in Pell City, Jan. 9-10, 2025

The National Weather Service in Birmingham has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Pell City ahead of a system that is likely to impact travel on Thursday, January 9, and Friday, January 10, 2025.

Up-to-date information can be found by following the following organizations and agencies on social media via the following links:

See below for important information for Pell City residents related to the incoming weather system.

As of 4 p.m. on Thursday, January 9, the probabilities are increasing that there will be impacts to travel throughout the area from the incoming winter weather system. Northern St. Clair County is more likely to experience impacts than Pell City, however, the NWS reported that dangerous or impossible driving conditions are expected across far northern portions of Central Alabama, with hazardous driving conditions extending further south. Black ice will also be possible areawide through Saturday morning.

THURSDAY: Snow and sleet likely before 5 a.m., then sleet, possibly mixed with snow and freezing rain, could occur. The chance of precipitation is 100 percent, but little to no ice is expected.

FRIDAY: Rain, freezing rain and sleet, possibly mixed with snow are possible before 11 a.m. NWS anticipates rain, possibly mixed with sleet between 11 a.m. and noon, then rain after noon. Ice accumulation of less than 0.1 of an inch is possible.

RESIDENTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO AVOID TRAVEL. BLACK ICE IS POSSIBLE THROUGH SATURDAY MORNING.

The City of Pell City

City offices and facilities will delay opening until 10 a.m. on Friday, January 10. The Pell City Civic Center will delay opening on Saturday, Jan. 11 until 10 a.m. as well. Please monitor https://www.facebook.com/cityofpellcity and https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057558785396 (Pell City Parks & Recreation).

Pell City Schools

PCSS will be closed on Friday, January 10, 2025. All classes and school activities are canceled for the day. Please monitor https://www.facebook.com/PellCityPanthers for more.

Garbage Collection

Meridian Waste will not operate garbage collection services on Friday, January 10. According to representatives, trash pickup will resume on Monday, January 13 and the collection schedule will be one day behind next week.

St. Clair County EMA

According to the St. Clair County EMA, Warming shelters will be open in our area to provide safe and warm spaces for those in need. The Pell City and Ashville Courthouse Basements will be open from 5 p.m. – 8 a.m., Thursday, January 9 – Friday, January 10. Please monitor https://www.facebook.com/stclairema for more.

Alabama Power

Should the incoming winter weather affect power in our area, Alabama Power provides residents with real-time information on outages. Find the map at https://outagemap.alabamapower.com/.

Pell City 12U Baseball becomes official Little League partner

After months of preparation, Pell City Parks and Recreation is proud to announce that in 2025 some of its athletes will join the biggest name in youth sports – Little League.

Little League is the world’s largest organized youth sports program, with over 2 million baseball and softball players in communities across every U.S. state and over 80 countries.

This partnership marks a monumental step forward for the community’s young athletes, offering them the chance to compete on larger stages and potentially earn a spot in the Little League Baseball World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Millions across the globe watch the annual tournament, including many young players right here in Pell City.

“We’re excited, and we know our players will be, too,” Athletic Director Joey Morrow said. “It’s not just a potential opportunity to represent their local community in televised games, it’s a chance for them to compete at youth sports’ highest level of competition.”

The transition to Little League will only affect 2025 players signing up for 12U Baseball leagues with Pell City Parks and Recreation. All other baseball leagues will remain in USSSA, and all All-Stars programs will continue as they have in years past.

The move to Little League underscores Pell City Parks and Recreation’s commitment to fostering youth development and community pride. Alongside skill-building and athletic competition, Little League emphasizes character development, leadership, and a love for the game of baseball.

Registration for the upcoming season is now open. Parents can register their children at pellcity.recdesk.com.

Register Now

For more information on Little League, visit LittleLeague.org.

Council Approves Development Incentive that will bring Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse to Exit 158

On Monday, December 23, 2024, the City Council for the City of Pell City approved an incentive package to help secure two new restaurants for the community – Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse.

“Residents regularly tell me that new dining options should be high on our list of priorities, so I’m very pleased to announce that two fantastic new restaurants are considering our city,” Mayor Bill Pruitt said. “This is a major win for our community, bringing new dining options, jobs, and economic growth.”

National restaurant brands Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse are in a due diligence period to consider occupying sites along US 231 at the intersection of I-20.

The $6+ million development is located along US Highway 231 and Hazelwood Dr., near the ramp to I-20 West.

Developers W.C.E. LLC and E&R Properties Inc. requested City assistance with site preparation and utility relocation costs for the project.  Using the incentives, the developers propose to prepare four build-ready parcels, which cover 8.73 acres.

“Through this incentive, the City anticipates additional commercial development at the site, beyond the two named restaurants,” City Manager Brian Muenger said. “Most national tenants require interstate visibility, so it is important that the City maximize the opportunity this land provides.

The City anticipates $10 million in combined annual sales from the two restaurants.

The public hearing on the incentive package is a small portion of a years-long recruitment process. Olive Garden and LongHorn are currently in the due diligence period of the development process.

Goodgame Company Enters Low Bid for City’s New Fire Station on US 231

The City of Pell City is relocating Pell City Fire Department’s Fire Station #2 from adjacent to the Pell City Civic Center to a freestanding location on US 231. The new fire station will be constructed on the vacant lot north of the Celebrations event center.

The move comes in anticipation of future growth around Lake Logan Martin and US 231, providing an enhanced location to reduce emergency response times.  

A 3D rendering by CMH Architects of Birmingham of the new PCFD Fire Station #2

The new Fire Station #2 was designed by CMH Architects of Birmingham. On Monday, December 23, 2024, the City Council for the City of Pell City approved the contract for the construction of the project to Goodgame Company of Pell City, which submitted a low bid of $8,277,500.

The City received six bids for the construction of the station.  City Manager Brian Muenger said the bid process was extremely competitive, with less than a 6 percent differential in cost between the lowest four bids submitted, and that each of those four bids was below the City’s pre-bid estimate.

“We are very comfortable with the level of competition, and the project came in substantially under budget,” said Blake Nelson, Senior Vice President of CMH Architects. “We have worked with Goodgame Co. on a number of projects, and we are very confident in their ability to deliver to the required scope.”

Bids opened on December 17, 2024
  • Goodgame Co. – $8.28 million (Certified Low Bid)
  • Kyser Construction – $8.44 million
  • Dominguez Design-Build Inc. – $8.71 million
  • Greer Building Contractors – $8.74 million
  • Wayne Davis Construction – $10.5 million
  • Mike Morgan Industrial, LLC – 10.54 million

The competitively bid portion of the project also includes a contingency of $200,000.00, which can be tapped into for unforeseen items that arise during construction.

Outfitting the new station with equipment and furniture will cost approximately $318,000, bringing the estimated total project cost to $8,595,500.

Construction of the 16,600-square-foot facility is expected to begin on or around February 1, 2025. Construction is anticipated to take 16 months, placing place the date of completion on or around May 1, 2026.

“This is pretty exciting for Pell City Fire Department,” Pell City Fire Chief Tim Kurzejeski said. “This is a project we’ve been working on for two to three years, and it’s a huge part of where we’re headed as a department and as a community.”

A 3D rendering by CMH Architects of Birmingham of the new PCFD Fire Station #2

Garbage Collection schedule adjusted for Christmas, New Year’s Day

Meridian Waste, Pell City’s solid waste collection service provider, will operate its normal routes and hours on Christmas Eve, Tuesday, December 24, 2024, and New Year’s Eve, Tuesday, December 31, 2024.

Collection services will not run on Christmas Day, Wednesday, December 25, 2024, or New Year’s Day, January 1, 2025. Collection services will be offset by one day (Wednesday pickup will move to Thursday, etc.)

Questions should be directed to Pell City Street Department Superintendent Greg Gossett at ggossett@cityofpellcity.net or by phone at (205) 884-8267.

Winners announced for 2024 Lights in the Park Contest

This year, Pell City saw a new spin on an old tradition, as Lights in the Park added a contest to select the best holiday-themed displays.

Presented annually by the Pell City Parks & Recreation Department, this year’s event saw more than 80 entries take over Lakeside Park during the holiday season. The Department collected hundreds of votes from attendees and assembled a special committee to select the winner.

“The Pell City Parks & Recreation Department would like to express its sincere gratitude to all participants, visitors, and voters of the inaugural ‘Lights in the Park’ Holiday Competition,” said Civic Center Manager and Contest Organizer Valerie Painter. “We commend the community for their enthusiastic participation and thoughtful voting.”

And now, without further ado, the winners are:

Overall Winner: Woody’s Tree Service

  • Anna Otterson / Edward Jones: Silent Night Award – Simple and clean display
  • Jessica Blackerby / EXP Realty: White Christmas Award – Best use of white lights
  • Woody’s Tree Service: Deck the Halls Award – Most over-the-top use of lighting
  • Clean Haul Roll-Off: Christmas is in the Air Award – Best use of inflatables
  • House of Prayer: The Reason for the Season Award – Best Nativity display
  • Faith Community Fellowship: Holly Jolly Christmas Award – Best display that makes you laugh
  • Alabama Clearing & Excavating: Rock Around the Christmas Tree Award – Best use of animation
  • Metro Bank: The Rudolph Award – Best use of holiday characters
  • Girl Scouts Troop 24216: Christmas Story Award – Best youth inspired display

The 2024 Lights in the Park award winners will receive additional promotions through Discover and LakeLife 24/7 (Digital and Print). In addition, these winners will have the opportunity to select their locations in the Park for next year’s competition!

“The warmth of our community and the wonder of the Christmas season combine every year for ‘Lights in the Park.’ It’s heartwarming to see Pell City come together to create such a magical experience. Congratulations to the winners, and thank you to everyone involved.”

Lights in the Park at Lakeside Park in Pell City will remain open through the New Year.

City employees help Lighten the Load for children entering foster care

On Friday, Dec. 6, the City of Pell City concluded its annual “Lighten the Load” fundraising campaign by donating 15 suitcases each stocked with blankets, toys and essential care items to the St. Clair County Department of Human Resources (DHR).

Lighten the Load is a holiday campaign that collects suitcases for the DHR, ensuring that children entering the foster care system don’t have to carry their belongings in a trash bag. In its fourth year supporting Lighten the Load, City employees donated more than any previous year.

“It’s heartbreaking to think of these little ones facing such a difficult transition, and our contributions can help soften that experience,” Human Resources Director Dawn Childre said. “I know we’re making a real difference.”

Along with generous donations from employees and various departments, the campaign also received a significant contribution from the Alpine Bay Men’s Golf Association, which helped in surpassing last year’s donation totals.

Pictured: City employees transfer donated items for 2024 Lighten the Load to employees of TempForce Pell City, which works in conjunction with DHR to facilitate the annual fundraising campaign around St. Clair County.

Holiday Season arrives in Pell City!

From fun runs to photos with Santa, the City of Pell City is full of special events this Christmas Season. Make plans now to attend all of Pell City’s family-friendly Christmas events this year.

Events listed in this guide are either sponsored by or presented in partnership with the City of Pell City.

Jump to

Lights in the Park

Presented by: Pell City Parks & Recreation

When: Nov. 29-Dec. 31 after sunset

Where: Lakeside Park

Look for: More than 80 festive displays and a chance to vote for your favorites

More: https://pell-city.com/parks-and-recreation-department/lights-in-the-park/

This Christmas Season, grab some hot chocolate and take your family on a drive through Lakeside Park in Pell City to see more than 80 holiday displays and thousands of Christmas lights. The free event is getting a new feature this year as community displays will be judged on their creativity and quality, and special recognition will go to the winners. Scan the QR codes to vote for your favorites!

Whobilation

Presented by: Pell City Library Guild

When: Dec. 5 at 5 p.m.

Where: Pell City Public Library

Look for: Holiday displays, special guests, photo ops, snacks, crafts, and more

More: https://www.facebook.com/pellcitylibrary1000

The Pell City Library Guild’s Whobilation Celebration is even better this year with the addition of a Giant Snow Globe, sure to be the hit of this year’s event. At Whobilation, children can visit stations for hot chocolate, Christmas crafts, and Christmas cookies. They will also have photo opportunities with the Grinch, Elsa from Frozen, and Santa.

Tree Lighting Festival & Holiday Open House

Presented by: The Heart of Pell City

When: Dec. 6 at 6 p.m.

Where: Cogswell Ave., Downtown Pell City

Look for: Festive décor, food, music, and kids activities

More: https://www.facebook.com/HeartOfPellCity

You’re invited to A Candyland Christmas! Join us Friday December 6th, at 6 p.m. in front of the St. Clair County Courthouse in Pell City for the 7th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Festival. This year’s event features live dance performances, musical entertainment, Santa, candy bags for kids, and delicious hot chocolate and apple cider. Pell City’s Downtown Holiday Open House starts earlier in the day at 11 a.m. and includes special offerings, treats, and more at participating businesses.

Gingerbread Houses!

Presented by: Pell City Library Guild

When: Dec. 6-7 (Multiple times, registration required)

Where: Pell City Public Library

Look for: Free family holiday fun decorating with sweet treats

Register: Call (205) 884-1015

Each year the Pell City Library Guild invites children of all ages to construct their dream homes. Join the Guild and Staff of the Pell City Public Library for a Christmas construction project like no other. Register your child for one of the three free sessions by calling the Library today.

Pell City Christmas Parade

Presented by: Pell City Chamber of Commerce

When: Dec. 13 at 7 p.m.

Where: Cogswell Ave, Downtown Pell City

Look for: Hundreds of holiday floats and thousands of spectators

More: http://business.pellcitychamber.com/events/details/2024-pell-city-christmas-parade-5743?clearcache=1&globaltemplate=http://www.pellcitychamber.com/cm-template/

The Christmas parade that makes its way through downtown Pell City each year is a sight to behold. Floats, bands, convertibles, and Jolly Old Saint Nick himself are part of the festivities as Pell City rings in the season in early December. Thousands of visitors line the streets each year to get a glimpse of the lights, the pageantry and the spirit of Christmas that abounds in what has become one of the region’s largest parades. This year’s theme is “12 Days of Christmas.”

Rotary Jingle Bell 5K & Fun Run

Presented by: Pell City Rotary Club

When: Dec. 14 at 8:30 a.m.

Where: Lakeside Park

Look for: Festive family fitness, Christmas costumes, snacks, and special guests

Register: https://pellcityrotary.org/jingle-bells-5k-run/

The Rotary Jingle Bell 5K & Fun Run became an instant holiday classic in Pell City last year as hundreds came together to support the Club’s efforts to support the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Boys Ranch. From the starting point to the finish line, the event evolved as a true success story, raising over $65,000 to help build a new home at the Boys Ranch and bringing a community together for a common cause.

A Vintage Country Christmas

Presented by: CEPA

When: Dec. 19 at 7 p.m.

Where: The Center for Education and Performing Arts

Look for: Classic country Christmas songs from Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, and more

Tickets: https://www.pellcitycepa.com/vintage-christmas

CEPA presents a Vintage Country Christmas featuring Rose Colored Glasses, a band with that classic country sound that takes you back to Saturday nights listening to the Opry and the jukebox classics that defined a generation. Join your friends to hear Christmas classics from Patsy Cline, Hank Williams, Tammy Wynette, Buck Owens, Merle Haggard, Loretta Lynn, Bob Wills, and more.

Pell City Police Department Honors Officer of the Year and Welcomes New Officers

The Pell City Police Department is proud to announce Officer Charles Forman as its 2024 Officer of the Year. Forman, who joined the department in 2022, has quickly become a valuable asset to the force, demonstrating exceptional dedication and commitment to public service.

“Officer Foreman is an outstanding young officer,” Pell City Police Chief Clay Morris said. “His dedication to keep our community safe is unmatched. His professionalism, courtesy, work ethic, and productivity were evident on a daily basis.”

Pell City Police Chief Clay Morris with 2024 Officer of the Year Charles Forman

Morris said Officer Foreman was responsible for 48 felony arrests and 142 misdemeanor arrests this year, in addition to hundreds of incident reports and traffic citations or warnings.

Receiving the honor of Officer of the Year from Chief Morris was especially meaningful. Officer Forman began his career in law enforcement as a St. Clair County Corrections Officer working at the St. Clair County Jail. There, he interacted regularly with members of PCPD.

“The way Pell City’s officers carried themselves motivated me to join their team,” Forman said. “So, the next time I saw Chief Morris, I walked right up to him and told him I was going to come work for him. Six months later, he brought me in for an interview.”

Officer Forman came to PCPD from a family known for community service. His great-grandfather, also named Charles Forman, served as coroner for St. Clair County for 10 years.

Officer Forman said the Officer of the Year designation was rewarding and humbling, but more importantly it reflected the Pell City Police Department’s focus on its younger officers. He said the support of PCPD staff and supervisors were the key to his growth. He encouraged young people to pursue careers in law enforcement.

“A lot of young men and women, once they get into this field, they see firsthand how much of a difference they can make in their communities through outreach and assisting others,” Foreman said. “It’s worth it.”

Pell City Police Department held a ceremony to honor Officer Forman and recognize several promotions and new hires on Tuesday, November 20, 2024. During the ceremony, the Department recognized:

Officer of the Year

  • Officer Charles Forman

Promotions

  • Corporal Travis Hughes
  • Corporal Noah Roberts
  • Sergeant David Emerson
  • Sergeant Noah Tucker

New Officers

  • Officer Benjamin Abel
  • Officer Matthew Dorough
  • Officer Terry Fellows
  • Officer Silas Kissack
  • Officer Byron Moon
  • Officer Alexis Moreno
  • Officer Breanna Nabors
  • Officer James Sargent
  • Officer Daryl Thistle
  • Officer Patrick Tunnell

“We are incredibly proud of Officer Forman and all of our officers who have been recognized today,” said Chief Morris. “Their hard work and dedication make our community a safer place. We also extend a warm welcome to our newest officers and look forward to their contributions to the department.”

Pell City Board of Education Steering Committee activated following certification of 2024 General Election Results

On Friday, November 15, the St. Clair County Probate Office certified the results of the 2024 General Election for St. Clair County and acknowledged the voters’ will on Local Amendment 1. Voters adopted the measure with overwhelming support.

In St. Clair County, 69 percent of voters approved Local Amendment 1. In the Pell City School Attendance Zone and Tax District, 54 percent of voters approved the measure. Overall, 28 of 30 polling locations voted “Yes” on Local Amendment 1.

The City Council of the City of Pell City accepts the responsibility bestowed by the voters to deliver fair representation to residents of the Attendance Zone through the appointment process. It also recognizes the voters’ desire for leadership of the highest caliber on the Pell City Board of Education.

As Mayor Bill Pruitt and members of the City Council stated during the leadup to the vote, the Council will prioritize a transparent process that results in the appointment of candidates who seek excellence in education. In addition, the Council will seek candidates that prioritize:

  • A strong interest in public education and student success
  • A commitment to excellence and continuous improvement
  • Experience with budgeting and financial oversight
  • Understanding of school law and policy
  • Ability to analyze complex data and make sound decisions
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Willingness to collaborate with others and build consensus
  • Strong work ethic and ability to dedicate time to board responsibilities

Following the General Election, many residents have expressed interest in the application process. A schedule for the release of the official application and the dates when applications may be submitted will be available soon. All procedures for appointment will be adopted by the City Council over the coming weeks following input from the Pell City Board of Education Steering Committee.

The Steering Committee was created by the City Council through Ordinance No. 2024-6158, which was adopted on October 14, 2024. The seven-member committee was activated upon the ratification of Local Constitutional Amendment 1, and have begun their two-year terms. Its members will be organized before the close of 2024 to provide input on the process for appointment.

The Council anticipates that the final appointment process will include most if not all the following actions.

  • Research and Input
  • Adoption of Procedures
  • Timeline and Application Release
  • Application Submission Window
  • Steering Committee Application Review
  • Public Interviews and Comment Period for Recommended Candidates
  • Board of Education Appointment

Local Amendment 1, supported by the City of Pell City and the Pell City School System, was a ballot measure in St. Clair County, Alabama, on November 5, 2024, aimed at addressing a long-standing issue of representation for residents in the Pell City School Attendance Zone.

With its certification, the Amendment changed the Pell City Board of Education from an elected to an appointed board. The City Council of Pell City will appoint all members of the Board of Education beginning in 2025. At least two members of the Pell City Board of Education must reside within the county portion of the Pell City School Attendance Zone.

The primary goal of Local Amendment 1 was to ensure fair representation for residents in the Pell City School Attendance Zone, who for 40 years have had no direct voting power in the district’s leadership. By appointing the Pell City Board of Education, the Amendment gives these residents a voice in the governance of the schools their children attend.