On Oct. 26, Pell City Police Department was honored to support the dream of Devarjay “DJ” Daniel. This incredible young man is facing hardships that many will never understand, yet it hasn’t deterred him from pursuing his quest.
DJ, who was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer at 6 years old, has undergone 13 surgeries. While battling his condition, in 2019 in his home state of Texas, he set out to be sworn in as a police officer by 100 different departments.
In 2024, after a ceremony in Alabama that included 33 law enforcement agencies, DJ has now been sworn in by 871 police departments across the United States.
“To witness DJ’s unwavering spirit in the face of such adversity is truly humbling,” Pell City Police Chief Clay Morris said. “His dream of becoming a police officer is a testament to his strength and courage. We are privileged to share this moment with him and his family.”
During DJ’s ceremony, held at the Birmingham Crossplex, PCPD Lt. Vince Warrington swore DJ in as an honorary officer with the Department.
“Our hearts are with you, DJ,” Morris said. “Welcome to the team.”
The Pell City Board of Education Steering Committee, created by the City Council of Pell City via resolution in October 2024. Among other responsibilities, the Committee will be tasked with interviewing and recommending future members of the Pell City Board of Education to the City Council for appointment. Its members will serve a two-year term.
The City Council created the Education Steering Committee in anticipation of Local Amendment 1, a November 5, 2024 referendum that could return the Pell City Board of Education to its roots as an appointed board.
The same amendment, which will appear on the ballot throughout St. Clair County, will provide representation on the Board to families who live outside City Limits but whose children attend Pell City Schools. The ordinance creating the Steering Committee will not go into effect until voters approve Amendment 1.
Click to read information on members of the Steering Committee
Kelly Furgerson is a graduate of Pell City High School-Class of 2001, the University of Alabama in 2004 and Birmingham School of Law in 2007. She and her husband, Mark, decided to move back to Pell City from Birmingham in order to raise their family. Kelly has two children, Reid and Emma, who are both students in the Pell City School System.
She has a law practice in Pell City, and when she is not working, she can be found at a ballpark somewhere as she is her kids’ biggest fan. She also loves serving in the Rotary Club of Pell City and Victory Church of Pell City. She is passionate about helping people in her professional and personal life.
My thoughts on Local Amendment 1
The importance of Local Amendment 1 is that it is a possible solution to a problem that has been in existence since 1982. That is a long time – because that is actually the year that I was born.
For years, people have discussed making it a priority to correct the longstanding issue of representation for the residents in the county portion of our school district. This amendment will allow those people who are in the attendance zone but not in the City limits to serve on the City School Board, and I think that is a great thing for this community. Those people are invested in our schools and in our community, and I would love to see some of them get involved and have a real seat at the table.
What I will be looking for in a Board of Education candidate
A few of the qualities that I will be looking for in future board members should this Amendment pass will be leadership, the ability to work well with others, integrity, and an absolute love for the Pell City School System and all it can be. A great candidate will have a relentless focus on exceeding expectations. Our students, teachers and administrators deserve the very best.
Roland St. John
Roland St. John is a lifelong resident of St. Clair County, having spent all 60 years of his life in the same community outside of the city limits. Roland is the founder and owner of C&R Feed & Supply in Ragland and Odenville, a business he’s operated for over 23 years. In addition to his business endeavors, he is a part-time farmer.
He is a dedicated member of the St. Clair County Republican Party and the St. Clair County Farmers Federation. Roland’s wife, Peggy, is a registered nurse at UAB/St. Vincent’s Hospital with over 23 years of experience. They have grandchildren in the Pell City School System. Roland also works closely with his son, Chad, who is an integral part of the family business.
My thoughts on Local Amendment 1
I have been a strong outspoken voice for the rural residents that have never had a voice in regards to the Pell City School System. We have paid our taxes and have been excluded because of how the laws are written in the state.
I still don’t agree with not being able to vote on a school board. I had to take a step back and realize that the rural resident will actually be able to seek a position on the school board and know that we will be represented by a minimum of two board members, possibly more.
I think we will have a much better school board that represents each demographic within the school district. This seems like a winning situation for all involved, especially for the students, which should be everyone’s first priority.
What I will be looking for in a Board of Education candidate
I’m looking for someone with strong character and common sense. Someone who’s committed to serving our community for the long haul and is always willing to listen to our citizens. They should understand the importance of financial responsibility and, most importantly, the safety of our students.
I want to ensure that every single student, regardless of their background, has equal opportunities to succeed. We need to prepare them for the challenges of the real world, making sure they’re equipped with basic skills like reading, writing, and math.
I believe in the power of workforce development and career technical education. We need to offer more opportunities for our students to gain practical skills that will help them succeed in the job market. Finally, a strong discipline policy is crucial for maintaining a positive learning environment.
These are the issues that matter to me, and I believe they should be priorities for our school board.
Tammie Williams
Tammie Williams is a graduate of The University of Alabama with a degree in Electrical Engineering. She also holds a Master of Business Administration degree from Samford University. She has been employed by Alabama Power Company for 40 years and is currently a Senior Engineer.
Tammie serves the community in many capacities; her civic involvement includes the St. Clair County chapter of The Literacy Council, Pell City Schools Education Foundation, Pell City Chamber of Commerce member, United Way of Central Alabama St. Clair County Advisory Board, University of Alabama Blackburn Institute Advisory Board Member, University of Alabama Board of Visitors for Honors College, Logan Martin Red Elephant Club, and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
She is a former math tutor and adjunct math teacher and she is also a former Pell City Board of Education member where she served for 9 years. Tammie is married to Ronald Williams and they have two children who are former Pell City High School graduates.
My thoughts on Local Amendment 1
For many years the Pell City Board of Education has explored different ways for citizens outside of the city limits to have board representation. There were legal roadblocks and scenarios that did not provide the results we wanted to achieve. At this time, Amendment 1 provides a path to provide that board representation as well as precludes the citizens in our attendance zone from affecting the outcomes of St Clair County School Superintendent and their school board processes.
What I will be looking for in a Board of Education candidate
While there are many qualities and traits that I will be looking for; first and foremost I want future board members to be passionate cheerleaders and champions for our students, teachers, staff and administrators. They should have the ability to make sound decisions with the information given and can be objective without agendas.
There will be differing opinions on the board from time to time, an exemplary board member can disagree but can do so with civility. While attending the monthly board meetings and training is required and necessary, I want future board members to be committed to be engaged in the school system by attending academic and extracurricular activities and spending time in classrooms with educators and students.
Monique Bowman
Monique Bowman, a retired school teacher of 40 years, taught in the Pell City School system for 25 years. She began her career in 1973 with a short break with her first two boys and a short term in France serving with her husband as a missionary. Upon returning from the mission field, she began her teaching career again. Her four boys attended and graduated from the Pell City School System.
Pell City has been her home for the past 50 years, except for the time living in France. Her boys have been involved in the activities of the community and the school playing in the band and sports.
Monique’s field was Social Studies and Spanish. She received her Bachelor of Science degree concentrating in Secondary Education with specialties in History and Spanish from Bob Jones University. She obtained her master’s degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
She taught all levels of history at Pell City High School, finishing her career teaching Advanced Placement classes and head of the History Department. Today she continues to be a part of the ACCESS community of the University of Alabama, online teaching and serving as a docent at the Museum of Pell City.
My thoughts on Local Amendment 1
I believe that it is necessary for all the people to be represented in the school district. My oldest child graduated in 1996 and my youngest in 2006, but I had no say so in the school system. The reason is that we live half a mile outside the city limits. Yet, my boys had to go to Pell City, not St. Clair County.
Like a good citizen, we voted every election, and if there was an issue for the St. Clair County school system, we voted even though it did not affect us. There are many people in the same situation. It is necessary for parents to have a say so in the system their children attend. Some people may have preferred to have the amendment as two separate things. One to vote on the attendance zone and the other to vote on the appointed or elected board.
What I will be looking for in a Board of Education candidate
School board members should be the highest of ethical and moral conduct. They should show a respectful attitude to other members, the superintendent, board employees, teachers and all support personnel. This will filter down through the system.
School board members should prioritize high academic standards K-12, not only to be on paper but to be enforced. Someone who wants discipline throughout the system and is consistent regardless of the person. They should seek out strong academic teachers who are going to teach subject matter, not their own ideas. Teachers who are not going to be swayed by the thought of the day.
School board members should have a good sense of finance as they will be making some of the financial decisions or at least approving them for the system. Financial responsibility is important to keep the system sound.
School board members should be able to work together as a team, agreeing with the final goal of having the best system possible. They should not be ‘yes men’ nor be willing to rubber stamp ideas, nor afraid to voice their opinions, but be able to articulate their position clearly. At the same time, they should be able to discuss and disagree with each other amicably and then come to a general conclusion. It is not their time to shine.
School board members need to have the same vision for the system, they cannot be fragmented as this will filter down through the system. They need to commit to attending all meetings, clearing their agenda so that they are readily available to attend.
Cory Bline
A lifelong Pell City resident, Cory has been a dedicated member of the community for many years. A graduate of Pell City High School, he began a career with Allstate in 2007. In 2014, he fulfilled a long-time dream by opening an Allstate agency in Lincoln. A year ago, he relocated the agency back to Pell City and has since become actively involved in local schools, supporting his daughters’ participation in sports, beta club, and engineering. He has donated to Pell City athletics for more than a decade.
Cory’s passion for community extends beyond his professional and family life. He is an active Rotarian, Pell City Chamber of Commerce member, and volunteer coach for youth sports. His wife, Vicki Bline, is a 21-year veteran educator and Pell City Schools employee at the Legacy Learning Center. Together, they share a commitment to education and community development.
My thoughts on Local Amendment 1
First, we need representation for the whole student body and their parents, and this is a solution that provides it. Beyond that, an appointed board that includes County residents – like me – brings new voices and diversity of thought into the Pell City School System. I think it’s good that we’re opening up the pool, and I expect many people to look for any way to be a part of this new structure.
I also like the structure of staggered appointments for Board of Education members. It ensures an experienced board is in place at all times.
What I will be looking for in a Board of Education candidate
I’m a big athletics guy, but I plan to seek out applicants who want excellence in academics. That includes students who may need more attention than others, so I hope to find people interested in alternative learning programs.
Other than that, I want people with ideas that we don’t already have – people with experience with successful trends in education. I want to see applicants who have a love for our system and our students but see the bigger picture and want to explore new opportunities.
Rusty Jessup
Mayor Rusty Jessup is a dedicated public servant and longtime resident of Riverside, Alabama. He and his wife, Sandra, a retired school teacher, have called Riverside home for over 20 years.
After graduating from Shades Valley High School and earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Jacksonville State University, Rusty embarked on a successful career in the insurance industry, spanning over 30 years.
A committed community leader, Rusty has served the city of Riverside for nearly two decades. He was first elected to the City Council in 2004 and subsequently as Mayor in 2006. Currently in his fifth term as Mayor, he continues to prioritize the needs and well-being of Riverside’s residents.
Beyond his mayoral duties, Rusty actively contributes to regional and state-level initiatives. He serves as Chairman of the St. Clair County Mayors Association, Chairman of the St. Clair County Healthcare Authority, and a member of the Jacksonville State University Political Action Committee. Additionally, he is a dedicated member of the Alabama League of Municipalities and an active participant at Riverside Baptist Church.
My thoughts on Local Amendment 1
Since I became Mayor of Riverside, I have tried and tried to find a way to solve this problem. Citizens of Riverside had no representative on the School Board where our kids went to school; and there was no easy way to fix it – unless we wanted to send our kids to County Schools, which was not an option due to location. Geographically, it would be easier for us to go to school in Lincoln as it would be to go to the nearest County School. There are no good options.
While Amendment One does not give us a “vote” to Represent us “as a district”, it does give us representation. The fact that this new Board will be “Seated” by appointment rather than elected means we get representation by a delegate that will represent all of us and not just a “district”. All School Board members will now represent all students – not just the students in their district. This – in my opinion – is the best part. No districts. Simple representation for everyone, regardless of where you live.
I am confident that the Pell City City Council will appoint members that will represent Riverside, as well as everyone else. The amendment requires at least two members live outside the City Limits of Pell City. Students out in the school district will be represented. I like it. It is a step in the right direction. I am sure this system will get revisited from time to time (as it should) – but for now, It is a well thought out process, and a huge step for the better.
What I will be looking for in a Board of Education candidate
Service to humanity is the best work of life. I want someone who has a giving spirit and a history of community involvement. Will do the right thing for the right reason and has no ax to grind. I want positive individuals who are willing to leave the day-to-day operations of the schools in the hands of the paid administrators and the teachers so the School Board can be free to move our schools forward, promote wellbeing, and think ahead.
They should see the big picture, be willing to study how other school boards do things successfully, and lead. They are educated – college degree preferred, but not crucial. Makes a good impression – physically and mentally. Dresses appropriately and gives off a professional appearance in the way they talk and act. Committed to making our school system the best school system in Alabama. Willing to put in the time and sacrifice it will take to accomplish this.
Jeff Jones
Jeff Jones is a longtime resident of Pell City. After graduating from Pell City High School in 1986, he earned a degree in finance from Auburn University.
He has dedicated the past 30 years to the real estate industry, serving as a respected appraiser and developer within the Pell City community. His understanding of local property values and market trends has made him a valuable asset to the area.
Committed to public service, Jeff was elected to the Pell City Board of Education twice and served for six years, elected to two terms.
Jeff is an active member of the Pell City Rotary Club and the Association of Realtors. He is married with four children who have attended Pell City Schools, fostering a deep connection to the community.
My thoughts on Local Amendment 1
The residents of the Pell City School System Attendance Zone voted to increase ad valorem taxes in exchange for representation on the school board. Now it’s up to the residents to approve their seat at the table.
The measure offers a fair and complete plan to give a voice to residents who have lacked one in administrative decisions for the entirety of the Pell City School System’s history.
What I will be looking for in a Board of Education candidate
I envision a School Board member who can see the big picture – someone who has a vision for what our system could be, should be, and will be.
I would like to see a candidate who’s willing to learn from others, and who can inspire our district to reach new heights. Someone who trusts our administrators and teachers to handle the day-to-day, while the Board focuses on long-term goals and strategic planning. Someone with a positive outlook that will be displayed to school administration, faculty & students.
On Oct. 14, the City Council for the City of Pell City recognized outgoing Municipal Judge Brandi Hufford for her “significant contributions to the City and her service and dedication to the community.”
Hufford was appointed to the position of Municipal Judge following the retirement of Judge Van Davis in 2018. The Council noted her appointment as “historic” in a proclamation read by Mayor Bill Pruitt during the Council Meeting, as Hufford was the first woman to serve as a municipal court judge in St. Clair County.
Judge Brandi Hufford and son, Sloan, with Mayor Bill Pruitt during the City Council meeting October 14.
“I’m aware of what you did in allowing me to serve,” Judge Hufford told the Council. “Judge Van Davis was a mentor of mine, and it meant a lot for me to come in after him. I’m proud of you all, and I’m proud of this City.”
Joined by her husband, Del Hufford, and son, Sloan, Judge Hufford was recognized by the Council for her wisdom, compassion, and legal expertise in her service to the City. The Council also celebrated the continuance of her leadership as she prepares for her upcoming role.
Hufford ran an uncontested race for St. Clair County District Judge, Place 1 in 2024. The day after she was recognized by the Council, in a ceremony attended by hundreds at the St. Clair County Courthouse in Pell City, she was sworn in by Circuit Judge Phil Seay to her new position.
She is also the first woman to serve as an elected judge for St. Clair County.
“That distinction is less about me and more about you,” she told the audience during her swearing in ceremony. “I would not be here without each of you.”
Hufford replaces District Judge Alan Furr, who retired from the position after 13 years of service. Furr was honored during the ceremony with the presentation of a new portrait that will hang in the St. Clair County Courthouse.
On Monday, October 14, during its regular meeting, the City Council for the City of Pell City announced the formation of the Pell City Board of Education Steering Committee.
Among other responsibilities, the Committee will be tasked with interviewing and recommending future members of the Pell City Board of Education to the City Council for appointment. Its members will serve a two-year term.
The City Council created the Education Steering Committee in anticipation of Local Amendment 1, a November 5, 2024 referendum that could return the Pell City Board of Education to its roots as an appointed board.
The same amendment, which will appear on the ballot throughout St. Clair County, will provide representation on the Board to families who live outside City Limits but whose children attend Pell City Schools. The ordinance creating the Steering Committee will not go into effect until voters approve Amendment 1.
“First and foremost, as we prepare for the possibility that the Council will return to appointing Board of Education members, we know we want to find people in our community who have a proven track record of developing young minds for success,” Council President Jud Alverson said. “But more than that, we want to find Pell City citizens and residents of the Attendance Zone who know about excellence and are equipped to lead all our schools in that direction.”
The Council is developing an application, review, and appointment process for the Pell City Board of Education should the amendment pass. Following this process, during which transparency will be prioritized, the Steering Committee will be asked to evaluate applicants from the City and Attendance Zone, and will recommend candidates for appointment to the Board of Education.
Named to the Pell City Board of Education Steering Committee on Monday, Oct. 14 were:
Tammie Williams: Former Pell City Board of Education member, Pell City resident
Cory Bline: Pell City Business community, Attendance Zone resident
Rusty Jessup: Mayor of Riverside, Attendance Zone resident
Jeff Jones: Former Pell City Board of Education member, Pell City resident
Monique Bowman: Former Pell City Schools educator, Attendance Zone resident
Roland St. John: Pell City Business community, Attendance Zone resident
Kelly Furgerson: Pell City Attorney, Pell City resident
The Pell City Board of Education drove support for Amendment 1 via a unanimous vote on Resolution 2024-1 during its Jan. 25, 2024 meeting. Conversations between the Council and Board of Education dating back to that time led to the creation of the Steering Committee. Those appointed to serve were chosen from suggestions made by both the Council and Board.
Earlier this year, the Council created criteria that would be used to evaluate potential members for the Education Steering Committee. These criteria included holding a degree in education or business administration or having equivalent experience, a minimum of five years of continuous residency in the City Limits or Attendance Zone, and experience in serving the Pell City School System, via employment, elected or appointed office, PTO / PTA involvement, local education advocacy groups, or a board focused on community well-being.
In addition, the Council desired individuals with a commitment to educational excellence. In its search for committee appointments, the City engaged with the Board of Education for recommendations to find those with a proven track record of advocating for and implementing successful educational initiatives, an understanding of current educational research and best practices, a strong belief in data-driven decision making for improving student outcomes, and a commitment to goals of equity and achievement for all students.
Upon the approval of Amendment 1 in November, the City Council will release additional information and guidelines for the Steering Committee’s role in the appointment process, as well as detail on how interested individuals can apply to serve on the Pell City Board of Education.
“We’re presenting a committee that was created after much thought and discussion,” Mayor Bill Pruitt said. “Its members include individuals with experience on the board of education and in the classroom, as well as those who have children and grandchildren in the system. Its members also reside in both the City Limits and the Attendance Zone, and we’re expecting this collection of diverse perspectives and experiences to produce the best possible candidates for the Board should Amendment 1 pass.”
Qualifications for appointment to the Pell City Board of Education
Legal Requirements
Be a resident of the of Pell City or the Pell City Schools Attendance Zone for a period of no less than 90 days
Be of good moral character
Be at least 21 years old
Have a high school diploma or equivalent
Not be a convicted felon or on a sex offender registry
Not be employed by the City of Pell City or the Pell City Board of Education
Not serving on the governing board of a private elementary or secondary education institution
Recommended Skills and Experience (Currently under evaluation by the Pell City Council)
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
The City of Pell City will host a Community Forum on Local Amendment 1 on Oct. 15 at the Pell City Civic Center. The discussion will include Mayor Bill Pruitt as featured speaker, as well as a question-and-answer session with attendees. The public is invited to attend and learn more about the Amendment, which will appear on the November 5th General Election Ballot.
Currently, residents of unincorporated St. Clair County make up more than 50 percent of enrollment in Pell City Schools. Amendment 1 follows a 5-mill property tax approved by voters in 2021 on these residents. It proposes that those who live in the area defined as the “Pell City Schools Attendance Zone” be given the right to serve on the Pell City Board of Education.
Additionally, by providing voting representation through the approval of Amendment 1, Pell City Schools would have a pathway to collect the education sales taxes levied within the Attendance Zone.
“The City is eager to inform residents about Amendment 1, which we believe represents a significant step forward for solving representation issues in St. Clair County,” Mayor Pruitt said. “As with any change, we understand that there may be questions or concerns, and we want to assure residents that we are committed to open communication and transparency. We welcome your participation.”
Doors will open at 5:30 p.m., and the event will begin at 6 p.m. Read more on Local Amendment 1 here: pell-city.com/amendment1
The 2024 season of “Lights in the Park” is fast approaching, and the Pell City Parks & Recreation Department is preparing for it’s biggest year yet as it looks to add an exciting new feature – Awards!
In 2024, community displays will be judged on their creativity and quality, and special recognition will go to the winners. Not only will attendees of the 2024 Lights in the Park be invited to vote on their favorite displays, but a panel of independent judges will also be assembled to vote on several categories from among all participants.
The winners will be recognized in a variety of ways, which means it is more important than ever for your organization to be a part of this community event.
Judges will vote for “BEST OVERALL – JUDGE’S CHOICE”. There will be nine additional categories for the general public to vote on. Voting will begin the first lighting day of our event, Friday, November 29th and end at 9pm Thursday, December 19th. Signs with a QR code will be distributed throughout the park. Visitors will use their mobile phone cameras to scan the code, which takes them directly to our poll.
The third-annual Boo Bash on Logan Martin takes to our local waters on Oct. 12, 2024. The City of Pell City is proud to be a 2024 partner of this year’s event as it seeks to engage our community while supporting an impactful nonprofit organization, the Logan Martin Lake Protection Association (LMLPA).
Pell City Parks and Recreation Employees gear up for Boo Bash 2024 and stop on the route at Lakeside Park. The City of Pell City partnered with the Logan Martin Lake Protection Association for the event on Oct. 12.
In this article
Boo Bash 2024 supports the Logan Martin Lake Protection Association
LMLPA / City Parks & Recreation / Library partner for Lakeside Park Stop
According to organizers Kelli Lasseter and Sonya Hubbard, Boo Bash is a “dockside trick-or-treat spooktacular hosted by families and local businesses along Logan Martin Lake.” On October 12 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m., all across the lake, families in costume will be treated to a different Halloween experience at each dock they visit.
The event, which began in 2022, increased by more than 1,000 participants in its second year. Now on its third year, Lasseter and Hubbard have solidified their efforts to engage, grow and protect the lake community by giving back in a big way.
“Thanks to our amazing sponsors, this year Boo Bash on Logan Martin was able to raise more than $14,000,” Lasseter said. “These donations are more than enough to meet our main goal of supporting the LMLPA in adding 10 new hazard buoys to Logan Martin Lake.”
LMLPA President Neal Stephenson said the organization launched its Buoy Program in 2019 in partnership with Alabama Marine Police/ALEA. Among its many other efforts to protect Logan Martin, LMLPA relies on donations and volunteers to install lighted navigation buoys around the lake to enhance and encourage recreational boating safety.
The City Council of Pell City approved a land-use agreement with LMLPA earlier this year. Aided by the City’s Parks and Recreation Department, Lakeside Park will be the home of the organization’s awareness and fundraising efforts during the event.
Boaters can expect an exciting new stop on the route this year as City employees from Parks & Rec and the Pell City Library join the LMLPA in creating a new spooky scene at the Park featuring photo booths, food trucks, and registration for a kayak giveaway.
Another exciting addition to this year’s Boo Bash is its affiliation with the St. Clair County Airport’s Aviation Career Day and Open House. Now in its 6th year, the all-ages, all-day aviation event is packed with exhibitions, displays, and career seminars – all free to the public.
Manager Wendy Watson encouraged Boo Bash Participants to stop by the Airport before or after they take to the lake, but she added that the best time to be on the water would be between noon and 1 p.m. when dozens of historic planes are scheduled for Logan Martin flyovers.
What a fantastic day we had at City Hall and other Pell City facilities yesterday.
On Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024, The City of Pell City was thrilled and honored to host more than 300 bright and curious fourth grade students from Pell City Schools on an inaugural tour of our municipal departments and facilities.
Organized by Coosa Valley Elementary Teacher Angela Davidson and City Special Projects Coordinator Jeff Thompson, the students went behind the scenes to learn more about City administration, police and fire operations and the Pell City Public Library. These young minds were eager to learn about how our city operates, and we were more than happy to share our knowledge.
In addition, Davidson organized the students’ visits to the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office, the St. Clair County Emergency Management Agency, and Central Dispatch. Finally, every fourth grader also had the opportunity to tour the Museum of Pell City and learn the history of our community.
The City of Pell City is grateful to Ms. Davidson for taking the initiative to create this wonderful opportunity, and we’re especially proud of our City’s fourth-grade students for their exemplary behavior, insightful questions, and excitement about our wonderful employees and the work they do.
Special thanks to the organizers and presenters at the seven different stops throughout the day:
Bill Pruitt, Mayor of Pell City
Captain Josh Herren, Pell City Police Department
Battalion Chief Joey Vaughan, Pell City Fire and Rescue
Youth Librarian Jordan Rawson, Pell City Library
Chief Deputy Matt Coupland, St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office
Deputy Director Charity Mitcham, St. Clair Emergency Management Agency
Museum Coordinator Erica Grieve, Museum of Pell City
Thank you for joining us, future leaders – we’ll see you next year!
It’s mid-morning at the Col. Robert L. Howard State Veterans Home, and a flurry of activity surrounds all who walk down the grand corridor leading to the “town center.” That’s what it’s called – town center. After all, this is a community, just as it was intended five years ago when it opened its doors for the first time.
Men and women sit side by side playing Bingo. A couple of men gather in the sports lounge to swap a story or two. Others sit in front of the fireplace as if they are in their own living room, reading a newspaper. Nearby in the barber shop, a haircut is being delivered. And across the way, residents are getting an early start on lunch in the café.
It’s not much different than most communities, only this one is only for veterans. It’s the state-of-the-art, model for the country veterans home that started as a vision and evolved into a reality most states could only dream of.
When it opened Nov. 1, 2011, unparalleled fanfare followed. And rightly so. This Pell City-based facility has few rivals across the country. “We still see ourselves as a model for the rest of the country,” said Director Hiliary Hardwick.
“We have had multiple states in to tour our home. Federal planners have featured our home for future veterans homes to be built,” she said. “We are still considered that state-of-the-art facility for the whole country, not just the state, but the whole country.”
HMR of Alabama partners with the Alabama Department of Veteran Affairs to operate the facility, and the partnership has been a good one. “We are honored and delighted for the opportunity to serve the veterans and their families at Col. Robert L Howard State Veterans Home,” HMR Director Derrick Williams said. “Over the past five years it’s been an incredible journey to see a plot of land transform into a fully functioning facility. Most noteworthy is the sustained support from the community. Today our veterans receive superior services in a world class facility. We look forward for the continued opportunity to serve the veterans in this community.
When Rear Admiral Clyde Marsh, serving as State Commissioner and Director of the Alabama Department of Veteran Affairs, saw the planning and construction, he knew he wanted it to be a place worthy of the veterans who gave so much in service to their country.
Today, “when you walk through those doors, you appreciate where you are,” Hardwick said. “We wanted to create a true, homelike environment.” Take a look around, and that’s exactly what you see. “It is warm and inviting, not just for the veterans but for their friends and families.”
Each veteran in the 254-capacity facility has their own private room. Throughout, there are plenty of areas to socialize, and they are as comfortable and inviting as a favorite chair at home. “It is a place you come to live, engage, socialize. It has a good atmosphere and a good quality of life,” she said. “We know it’s home, so we want to provide as much as homelike and routine as we can.
“First impression is really a good one when you walk through those doors,” Hardwick said. Some might call it the Wow! factor. These veterans simply call it what it is — home.
Pell City begins process of revising its Comprehensive Plan
PELL CITY – Officials have begun the process of rewriting the Comprehensive Plan, a shared vision for the future of the municipality.
“It went well,” City Manager Brian Muenger said of the first steps in the process.
City employees as well as residents who volunteer on various city boards gathered at the new Municipal Complex on Tuesday to kick off efforts to revise the plan. Muenger said the 15-year-old plan does not accurately reflect the city’s plans for the future.
“Our needs have changed in the last 15 years,” he said.
He also noted that when the plan was written, Pell City only had 9,000 residents. Today, it has more than 14,000.
“It’s a 25-year comprehensive plan, but it needs updating at least every five years, and it needs to be fully revised every 10 years,” Muenger said.
He said the process to revise the municipality’s plan will take about 18 months, and the process must have public involvement. The plan focuses on six distinct areas – economic development, recreation, education, the historic downtown district, housing and public safety.
Muenger said the city will encourage residents interested in shaping the city’s future direction to volunteer to serve on a committee or subcommittee that will focus on one of the six planning areas.
He said the municipality will make applications to serve on committees available on the city’s website within the next two weeks.
“We want a diverse group of people to serve on each committee,” Muenger said. “We are looking at a full overhaul of the current Comp(rehensive) Plan.”
The council recently hired Epiphany Collaboration, LLC., to help guide the city through revising the plan. Katherine Ennis, with Epiphany Collaboration, LLC., said company officials hope to make the city’s plan more user friendly and easier to read.
She said the revised plan will have long-range goals.
“It’s a 20-year plan, but we want to know what you want to concentrate on for the next five years,” Ennis told those who were in attendance at the Leadership Retreat, which was Tuesday.
She said the process will include public hearings to encourage public involvement.
“This is a very public process,” Ennis said. “It has to involve your community.”
