Travel with Confidence: Pell City PD Offers Free Home Security Checks

The Pell City Police Department is pleased to announce its continued offering of a complimentary house check service for residents who will be away from their homes for an extended period. This proactive program aims to provide peace of mind to traveling homeowners by ensuring their properties are regularly monitored by dedicated law enforcement personnel.

Click Here to Schedule a House Check

Residents can request a house check by visiting the department’s website at pell-city.com/pcpd-house-check and completing a simple form. Once registered, officers will periodically check the exterior of the residence, looking for any signs of suspicious activity, forced entry, or unusual circumstances.

“Our officers conduct these checks with utmost diligence and attention to detail, understanding the trust residents place in us to safeguard their homes while they are away,” Pell City police Chief Clay Morris said. “We are dedicated to providing that extra layer of security and peace of mind.”

The importance of securing homes during travel is underscored by national crime trends. According to data from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) there were 840,000 burglaries reported across the United States in 2023, highlighting the persistent risk. Analyses of federal crime data consistently show that a significant portion of residential burglaries occur during daylight hours and when homes are unoccupied, emphasizing the vulnerability of vacant properties.

To further enhance home security while away, the Pell City Police Department also recommends the following:

  • Secure All Entry Points: Ensure all doors and windows are locked, including those on upper floors and in the garage. Consider reinforcing vulnerable entry points.
  • Utilize Timers for Lights: Set interior lights on timers to create the illusion of occupancy. Varying the times lights turn on and off can be particularly effective.
  • Manage Mail and Deliveries: Arrange for mail and newspapers to be held by the post office or a trusted neighbor. Suspend or redirect any regular deliveries.
  • Avoid Social Media Announcements: Refrain from posting travel plans or vacation photos on social media until after you have returned home. This can inadvertently alert potential criminals that your home is vacant.
  • Enlist Trusted Neighbors: Ask a trusted neighbor to collect flyers, check your property, park a car in your driveway, and generally make the home appear occupied.
  • Maintain Exterior Appearance: Arrange for routine maintenance to prevent your home from looking neglected.
  • Store Valuables Safely: Keep expensive items and important documents out of plain sight and, if possible, in a secure location like a safe deposit box or a hidden safe.
  • Register your security system with PCPD: Visit connectpellcity.org/camera-registration to quickly register your security system with the department, giving investigators an advantage in fighting crime in your neighborhood.
Click Here to Register Your Camera

The Pell City Police Department encourages all residents planning to travel to take advantage of the free house check service and implement these additional security measures. For more information and to sign up for the house check program, please visit pell-city.com/pcpd-house-check.

Steering Committee Releases Board of Education Finalist List; Public Interviews Scheduled June 16-18

On May 23, the Pell City Board of Education Steering Committee announced a list of 18 finalists who have been invited to interview for a seat on the Pell City Board of Education. More information on these finalists can be found at pell-city.com/boe-finalists.

The Steering Committee’s review process has involved a comprehensive evaluation of all 47 applicants seeking appointment to the Board of Education. Under its stated goal to recommend the most qualified candidates to the City Council, the Committee’s seven volunteer members carefully reviewed the submitted material before releasing their list of interview candidates.

“The overwhelming response of immensely qualified and talented applicants made this process extremely difficult — a very good difficult,” said Committee Chair Kelly Furgerson. “What an amazing problem to have — so many really good people who want to be involved with the decision making of our school system.

“We are so grateful for each and every individual who applied, offering their time and talents to serve. We sincerely hope that all applicants and the rest of our community continue to be passionate about our City and the Pell City Board of Education. Your dedication makes a difference.”

Invited to participate in public interviews are, in alphabetical order:

  • Ryan Abernathy
  • Joseph Brascho
  • Shannon Cochran
  • Austin Brian Ellard
  • James Epperson
  • Cecil Fomby
  • Phaith Frazier
  • Tim Hawkins
  • Jesse P. Hooks
  • Jarrett Jacobs
  • Brian Jennings
  • Robert Kreitlein
  • Gary London Sr.
  • Kandie Magargee
  • Matt Moon
  • Tammy Stewart
  • Mara Walls
  • Eddie Wilson

Public interviews for the finalists are scheduled for June 16-18, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM daily. These interviews will take place at the Center for Education and Performing Arts (CEPA) auditorium.

Six finalists will be interviewed each day, with each interview lasting no more than 20 minutes. The public is invited to attend these interviews, and all interviews will be filmed and released to the public.

The Steering Committee is responsible for reviewing applicants, naming finalists, and recommending finalists for appointment. By State law, at least two residents who live in the St. Clair County portion of the Pell City Attendance Zone and Tax District will be appointed to the Board of Education in 2025. Members appointed by the City Council will begin their terms in November.

“I want to express my deepest gratitude to every member of the Steering Committee for their tireless work and dedication throughout this important process,” Furgerson said. “We’ve poured our hearts into finding the best possible candidates for our school board, and we truly believe in this list. We genuinely encourage everyone in the community to come out to the upcoming interviews at CEPA and get to know these incredible finalists who are ready to serve our students and schools.”

Celebrating Pell City’s Journey: 2015-2025

View on YouTube

We’re excited to finally share this project, as it’s something we’ve been working on for a few months. 2025 marks the 10-year anniversary of some major milestones for the City of Pell City, so Mayor Pruitt and the City Council felt a brief look at the past was in order.

Back in 2015, projects like Premiere Cinemas and the Pell City Splash Pad were first coming into view and, as we’ve learned since, projects like those were merely a signal for what was to come for our community.

Over the past 10 years, among other milestones, Pell City added 1,000 new homes, 1,800 new jobs, and invested more than $35 million into capital improvement initiatives that support our residents.

Through sustainable growth, we’ve become a place for families to live and to thrive. And we feel like that’s worth celebrating.

We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has played a part in our journey: from citizens, volunteers, and community leaders who have supported these efforts, to event attendees, local businesses, and community organizations that contribute daily to the vibrancy of Pell City. Thank you for being a part of a decade of progress, and creating a future of opportunity for our town.

This project wouldn’t have been possible without the help of CEPA, Visit St. Clair, and The St. Clair County Economic Development Council, who provided valuable footage and information.

PCPD holds 2025 Fallen Officers Memorial Ceremony

Each year, the men and women of the Pell City Police Department gather alongside the public outside City Hall to pay tribute to two officers who gave their lives in service to the community – Officer Greg Surles and Lt. Richard Woods.

The Department’s entrance is flanked by stone monuments that honor these fallen officers. On May 15, 2025, during National Police Week, the Woods and Surles families joined the department for this annual recognition of their heroism and sacrifice at the site of these permanent memorials.

The event, led by Pell City Police Chief Clay Morris, included remarks of faith and gratitude from Rev. Scotty Pinson and a performance by Barrett Haynes.

“The brave men and women who serve in our City put their lives at risk every day,” Pinson told the crowd. “I am forever grateful for the service and sacrifice of these great leaders. We should always stand with them, keep them and their families in our prayers, and show them the respect and support they deserve.”

Pell City Police Officer Surles died from injuries he sustained when an 18-wheeler collided with his patrol vehicle in 2008. Lt. Woods died of a heart attack in 2015. His symptoms began while assisting two women who were trapped in their vehicle following a traffic accident.

“Our work is worth doing,” Chief Morris said to the families of Officer Surles and Lt. Woods. “For Richard and Greg, that work was protecting this community, protecting the lives of others, upholding justice, and ensuring peace. We put on the uniform each day and confront the unknown, driven by a sense of duty and an unyielding commitment to the communities we serve. Our courage is not the absence of fear. It’s the mastery of it.

“Greg and Richard’s sacrifice is a testament to their courage and commitment. Their legacy lives on every day in the lives they touched, in our department, and in this community. We will never forget them.”

Guide to 2025 Logan Martin LakeFest & Boat Show

Lakefest Returns to Pell City’s Lakeside Park This Weekend: May 9-11

The 2025 Logan Martin Lakefest & Boat Show will take place at Lakeside Park this weekend, running from Friday, May 9th through Sunday, May 11th. LakeFest is Pell City’s biggest annual event of the year, drawing 20,000 people or more to beautiful Lake Logan Martin across the three-day event.

In 2025, the City of Pell City has again partnered with Logan Martin Charity Foundation, the host of LakeFest, and The Pell City Parks & Recreation Department plays a central role in the setup and execution of Lakefest at Lakeside Park. The City extends its heartfelt thanks to organizers and staff, and welcomes everyone to enjoy an exciting weekend on the lake.

Here’s a look at this year’s event

The South’s Largest In-Water Boat Show

Lakefest features a scene for boaters like nothing else. The event has over 80 models on display with several available for test drive.

Live Music All Weekend

Throughout the weekend, Lakefest will feature live musical performances from local and regional artists. 

Friday: Patrick Smith (4 PM), Nacho Daddy (6 PM)

Saturday: Ian Cuthbertson (12 PM), Kudzu (3 PM), Get Sideways (6 PM)

FREE Splash Pad Entry (May 9-10)

This year’s event will include bracelets and time slots to allow everyone to enjoy. 

Friday, May 9: 2-4:30 PM, 4:30-7 PM

Saturday, May 10: 10 AM-12:30 PM, 1-3:30 PM, 4-7 PM

Fireworks 

The annual Friday Night Fireworks show will honor our Veterans from the Colonel Robert L. Howard Veterans Home in Pell City. The Show begins at approximately 9 PM.

Mermaids & Matey’s Parade (May 10)

Sponsored by St. Clair Tourism, this all-ages celebration features some of the best mermaid and pirate costumes from the region. The parade begins at 1 PM on Saturday, May 10.

Lake Lifestyle Vendors & Food Trucks

Dozens of vendors offering handcrafted arts and unique crafts.and a variety of gourmet food truck options will serve LakeFest attendees all weekend.

Lakeside Park is located at 2801 Stemley Bridge Rd, Pell City, AL 35054. Parking will be available on-site, with signage directing attendees. 

For more, visit loganmartinlakefest.com

Drone photography by Brian Muenger: https://www.youtube.com/@WBMuenger

City recognizes 135th Anniversary, declares May as Pell City History Month

During its regular meeting on April 28, the City of Pell City declared May 2025 as Pell City History Month. This designation marks the 135th anniversary of the city’s founding in 1890 and its incorporation on May 6, 1891.

Pell City’s unique story began in the late Nineteenth Century when a missed train brought Sumter Cogswell to our community. His vision and investment led to the founding of Pell City in 1890. Since then, through the dedication of many visionary leaders, Pell City has continued to thrive.

On April 28, members of the Pell City Historical Society are presented with a proclamation recognizing the 135th Anniversary of Pell City and declaring May as Pell City History Month.

This proclamation builds upon the work of the Pell City Historical Society, established in 2022, whose mission is to preserve and promote the city’s rich history. Recognizing the significance of the incorporation date, the Historical Society sought to align its primary historical celebration with the month of May.

The Historical Society provides tours and history for those traveling through and for the citizens of Pell City. Through an appropriation in 2024, the City Council recognized the organization’s service to the public in promoting the history and general welfare of the community.

01 – Proclamation – Pell City History MonthDownload

“As we celebrate the 135th anniversary of Pell City, it’s important to remember the vision and dedication of those who came before us,” said Mayor Bill Pruitt. “Declaring May as Pell City History Month allows us to reflect on our journey, appreciate our present, and look forward to a bright future that’s grounded in our proud history.”

Follow the Pell City Historical Society on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/PellCityHistoricalSociety

Review the Pell City Public Library’s extensive collection of historical documents here: https://www.pellcitylibrary.com/local-history-genealogy/

Pell City Sports Complex Enhances Safety with New Lightning Detection System

The Pell City Parks & Recreation Department recently installed a new, state-of-the-art lightning detection system at the Pell City Sports Complex. The system monitors a zone around the Complex and automatically notifies attendees of approaching lightning via flashing lights and a brief siren.

Provided by Perry Weather, the system is connected to a global, real-time weather monitoring platform that provides more accurate and reliable lightning detection at the ball fields and adjacent Parks facilities. Perry Weather is relied on by many surrounding communities, including Hoover and Vestavia Hills, and it is even deployed to safeguard fans at Protective Life Stadium in Birmingham.

PLAY VIDEO TO HEAR WARNING SIREN TEST

“Our top priority is always the protection of our families,” Athletics Director Joey Morrow said. “This technology is a game-changer for our facilities and shows we’re serious about giving everyone the safest experience possible.”

Perry Weather, gives a more accurate and reliable way to detect lightning than the Department’s previous methods. The system monitors conditions in real-time and uses smart technology to provide precise alerts. The automated system eliminates false alarms and gives exact all-clear notifications.

The Perry Weather dashboard (above) allows Pell City Parks & Recreation staff to monitor lightning strikes in real time from their mobile devices. When a strike occurs inside the red circle, the system will automatically trigger a warning for visitors to the Sports Complex and Lakeside Park. The system also allows staff to consult directly with a meteorologist about weather conditions.

How the System Works

The new system, located atop the Baseball Concession Stand, is not a weather monitoring system.

It detects lightning strikes within a 10-mile radius of the Complex. When a strike occurs within the zone, the system will activate a brief siren. This distinct, attention-grabbing signal will alert everyone in the vicinity to the potential danger and announce to players and families that the fields should be cleared immediately.

Safety Guidelines

If you hear the lightning warning signal, please adhere to the following safety guidelines:

  • Seek Shelter Immediately: Do not wait for visual confirmation of lightning. Seek shelter in a substantial building or a fully enclosed metal vehicle with the windows closed.
  • Avoid High-Risk Areas: Stay away from open fields, water, tall trees, and metal objects such as fences, bleachers, and light poles.
  • Wait 30 Minutes for the All-Clear Signal: The siren will sound a brief tone again to notify that it is safe to return outdoors.

For more information, contact Pell City Parks & Recreation Athletics at https://pell-city.com/athletics/

Pell City Police Department Announces 2025 Citizen Academy

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.

Click Here to Apply

Greater Birmingham Humane Society Assumes Management of Pell City Animal Care and Control Facility

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.

Pell City Sees Unprecedented Interest in Board of Education Appointments

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.