City Council names committee to recommend Board of Education member appointments

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.

Read More on 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

City of Pell City to host community discussion on Amendment 1

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.

After investing considerable time and resources into developing a solution, the Pell City Board of Education recommended returning to an appointed board. Appointments would be made by the City Council, and at least two members of the appointed Board of Education must reside in the Attendance Zone.

Read the City’s Informational Guide on Amendment 1

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

Registration now open for Lights in the Park 2024

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!

Download the Information Packet
Register for Lights in the Park 2024

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.

IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER

  • Nov. 15-29: Display Setup Period
  • Nov. 29 – Dec. 31: Official Lighting Dates
  • Jan. 8, 2025: Required Display Removal Date

For guidelines, award info, and online registration, visit https://pell-city.com/parks-and-recreation-department/lights-in-the-park/

City of Pell City partners with LMLPA for Boo Bash on Logan Martin 2024

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
  • St. Clair Airport Aviation Career Day Flyovers
Click Here to Register for Boo Bash 2024

Boo Bash 2024 Supports LMLPA

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.”

Follow the Boo Bash Facebook Page

LMLPA Stop at Lakeside Park

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.

Learn more about the LMLPA and its mission to protect our lake

Aviation Career Day Flyovers

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.

Learn more about Aviation Career Day

For more

The City of Pell City urges all Boo Bash participants to follow all laws and practice safe and responsible boating.

Register for Boo Bash: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdRaiqc2ujQnZZh4XERJ9Vn25yYwlvcx193Y9g-BJa3NJeDlA/viewform

Follow the Boo Bash Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/BooBashonLoganMartin

Learn more about the LMLPA and its mission to protect our lake: https://www.lmlpa.org/

Learn more about Aviation Career Day: https://www.facebook.com/p/St-Clair-County-AirportKPLR-100064467948878/

City Hosts Future Leaders on Field Trip

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!

2041 Comprehensive Plan Update

Comprehensive Plan 2041 pic 1500x

 

. 2040 Comprehensive Plan 

 

 

by David Atchison/The Daily Home

Pell City begins process of revising its Comprehensive Plan

Comprehensive Plan Meeting Photo

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.”