Workshop Meeting Minutes – 3/7/24

Workshop Session Minutes of the
Council of the City of Dora, Alabama

March 7, 2024

The Council of the City of Dora, Alabama met in the Dora Municipal Building at
6:00 p.m.


Present at the meeting were Mayor Hezikiah Walker, George Sides, Jr., Norman Holt,
Gary Thomas. Robert Busby arrived at approximately 7 p.m.


The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the status of Horse Creek Golf Course
including a new software package, finalizing the details of the written K-9 policy, the
Flock camera system for police department and further discussion regarding the weather
policy in the event of road closures.

Workshop Minutes – 4/18/24

Workshop Session Minutes of the
Council of the City of Dora, Alabama

April 18, 2024

The Council of the City of Dora, Alabama met in the Dora Municipal Building at
6:00 p.m.


Present at the meeting was Mayor Hezikiah L. Walker, Jr., David Box, George Sides, Jr.,
Randy Spears, Gary Thomas and Robert Busby.

Items discussed at the meeting were as follows:


Mayor Walker and George Sides went to Montgomery on April 10, 2024 and met with
Director Boswell of ADECA. The City of Dora was awarded a $1 Million Dollar non-
matching grant from CDBG and ARC. We were advised to wait one month before
applying for the grant due to another potential tenant coming to Heritage Landing, which
would increase the jobs, which in turn would increase the grant amount we could
potentially receive.


The potential handicap parking area at the lake pavilion project was discussed.
Horse Creek Golf Course: Updates given on new software installation, status of cashless
system, membership contracts, manager applicants, handicap flags on the golf course and
the role of marshals were all discussed. Keith Wright discussed some of the major
maintenance items that need to be addressed including deck repairs, 132 total trees need
to be removed from Hole 3, 4, 5, 10, 12 for a total cost of $50,800; this project will need
to be done in phases. The golf course has never replaced the water coolers and will need
six water coolers. The price range is anywhere from $800-$1,600 per unit.


Mayor Walker discussed the budget that he had all the department supervisors to submit
and asked that they submit a different budget with only essential items the department
needs to operate. It was discussed that with the demands of funding the Heritage Landing
project on the City’s budget that the topic of pay raises for all employees may need to be
addressed at a later date. Chief Hall discussed that it is pressing to raise the pay for the
police officers and dispatchers to compete with neighboring departments. Fire Chief
Booth discussed the lack of volunteers responding to calls and the need for hiring three
potential employees to cover 24-hour shifts at the fire department.

Workshop Minutes – 3/21/24

Workshop Session Minutes of the
Council of the City of Dora, Alabama

March 21, 2024

The Council of the City of Dora, Alabama met in the Dora Municipal Building at
6:00 p.m.


Present at the meeting were Mayor Hezikiah L. Walker, Jr., David Box, George Sides,
Jr., Randy Spears and Robert Busby.


The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the weather policy in the event of road
closures, PTO/banked time benefits in the event of death while employed, the City’s
PTO/Banked sick time policy in general, the City’s current portion of family health
insurance coverage, the introduction of a pay scale for employees.

Council Minutes – 3/14/24

Regular Session Minutes of the
Council of the City of Dora, Alabama

March 14, 2024

The Council of the City of Dora, Alabama met in the Dora Municipal Building at 6:00 p.m. We
were led in prayer by Mayor Hezikiah L. Walker, Jr. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mayor
Walker.


The meeting was called to order by Mayor Walker. Roll call was taken by Stacy Turner. Present at the meeting were David Box, Norman Holt, Chris Edwards, George Sides, Jr., Randy Spears, Gary Thomas, Robert Busby and Mayor Walker. A quorum was in attendance.

Item #5— Approval of the Minutes – The minutes of the February 15, 2024 work session,
February 22, 2024 regular meeting minutes and March 7, 2024 work session minutes were
reviewed. A motion was made by Chris Edwards to accept the minutes as written. The motion was seconded by Norman Holt. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #6 – Old Business –Mayor Walker related the construction of the lake pavilion began this week. The Heritage Landing Planning Committee has been filled with Chris Edwards, George Sides, Jr. and Randy Spears. Mayor Walker related the work session on March 7, 2024 was very productive and announced a work session for March 21, 2024 at 6 p.m.


Item #7— Bill List – A motion was made by Norman Holt to approve the bill lists dated
February 14, 2024. Motion was seconded by David Box. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #8 – Departmental Reports – A motion was made by George Sides, Jr. to approve
February 2024 Department Reports A-H. Motion was seconded by Robert Busby. All in favor
and the motion carried.


Item #9 –Fire Department-Card Access System–Chief Booth presented a quote from Carter
Sound Solutions, LLC for a one door cloud-based access control system for $2,392.80 (two
thousand three hundred ninety-two and 80/100). This system will allow for the front door to be opened using a key fob. The software allows for records of who is coming and going, status of the door and ability to adjust schedules/access of individuals needing access to the fire department. Chief Booth wanted the quote to include two doors. The item was postponed until Chief Hall stepped outside to call Brandon Carter. Brandon related the cost to add an additional door access would cost $1,500 (one thousand five hundred and no/100). George Sides made a motion to purchase the access control system for $2,392.80 (two thousand three hundred ninety- two and 80/100) and to have the side door re-keyed and to not distribute keys for that door.


There is also a $120 (one hundred twenty and no/100) yearly subscription cost for the system to be cloud based. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion passed.

Item #10 – Personnel Policy-PTO/Banked Time Benefits Upon Death – Norman Holt made a
motion to pay the PTO balance and fifty percent of banked time to Don Cummings. Due to his unexpected illness and subsequent death, he was unable to officially submit his resignation letter.

Gary Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion passed. We will address the
terminology of the personnel policy at a later date as it relates to an employees’ benefits at death while employed.


Item #11-Golf Course-Software Package – The current software program used at the golf
course is outdated and needs to be replaced. The software package from Club Prophet was
reviewed at the work session on March 7, 2024 and was discussed again tonight. Norman Holt made a motion to approve the software service and support package for the golf course from Club Prophet for $465 (four hundred sixty-five and no/100) per month for a two-year contract and to also approve the hardware purchase required for $5,715 (five thousand seven hundred fifteen and no/100). Chris Edwards seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #12-Golf Course-Part Time/Seasonal Employee Pay Rate- Keith Wright, Acting Golf
Course Manager related that the part time employees rate of pay is currently $9 (nine) per hour and would like the part time employee pay rate be increased. Chris Edwards made a motion to table this item until more detailed information is obtained. Robert Busby seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion was tabled.

Item #13-Park-Concession stand employee pay proposal- A proposal was submitted by Chase Gant to compensate three employees to work the concession stand during baseball games. The required duties of these employees were also discussed. The weekday game pay would be for two employees at $50 (fifty and no/100) per employee and the weekend game pay would be for three employees at $100 (one hundred and no/100) per employee. It was discussed that the employees could not be relatives of the park director because it would be in violation of the Cit of Dora’s Nepotism policy. A discussion was held regarding creating a seasonal concession stand employee position. George Sides, Jr. made a motion to table this item for more information.

Robert Busby seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion was tabled.


Item #14-Park-Fryer- A new fryer is needed for the concession stand. Randy Spears made a
motion to approve the purchase of a new countertop unit for $389 (three hundred eighty-nine and no/100). Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #15-Park-Community Easter Egg Hunt- Timothy Loveless from Faith Independent
Baptist Church relates their church and other local churches are planning a community Easter egg hunt and would like to use Dora Park on March 30, 2024 from 10 am – 2 pm with face painting, balloons, food, inflatables. Chris Edwards made a motion to approve the use of Dora Park for this free community-wide Easter egg hunt event on March 30, 2024. Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #16-Police Department-Flock Cameras-Chief Hall presented a proposal from Alabama
Power to install two flock cameras within the City Limits which will run license plates through NCIC database. The price is $541.68 (five hundred forty-one and 68/100) for a twenty-four- month contract. The price will be locked in for four years. The court fund will pay this monthly charge. Chris Edwards made a motion to approve this surveillance system. Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion passed.


Item #17-Police Department-Card Access System-A quote from Carter Sound Solutions, LLC
was reviewed for a one door cloud-based access control system. This system will allow for the door to be opened using a key fob for employees. The software allows for records of who is coming and going, status of the door and ability to adjust schedules/access of individuals needing access to the police department. This will also allow for a safer environment for the dispatchers and officers because they would be able to keep the door locked and electronically unlock the doors for visitors. Randy Spears made a motion to purchase the system for the price of $2318.18 (two thousand three hundred eighteen and 18/100). There is also a $120 (one hundred twenty and no/100) yearly subscription cost for the system to be cloud based. This system would be paid for out of the court fund. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #18-Police Department-K-9 Policy-The memorandum of agreement (MOA) by and
between the City of Dora, Sgt. Ronnie Phillips and K9 Charlie was reviewed. Randy Spears
made a motion to approve the MOA. Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the
motion passed. We will discuss the compensation for Sgt. Phillips at a work session at a later date.

Item #19-Dora High School Track Program-Dora High School has begun a track and field
program and they must travel for all the track meets due to the high school not having a track.

Norman Holt made a motion to donate $150 (one hundred fifty and no/100) to the Dora High
School Track and Field program. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion passed.


Item #20-City of Lights-5K Sponsor-Chris Edwards made a motion to sponsor the City of
Lights 5 th Annual 5K Run/Walk for $200 to benefit the City of Lights Dream Center Men’s
Center. Randy Spears seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


Mayor Walker recognized the guests at the council meeting and opened the floor for
questions/comments. None were made.


Item #21-Adjourn-Chris Edwards made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Gary Thomas
seconded the motion. All in favor and the meeting adjourned.

Council Minutes – 1/25/24

Prior to the Council Meeting, the official swearing in ceremony was held for Mayor Hezikiah
Walker, Jr. and Robert Busby with their oath of office being performed by Judge Valerie Hicks
Hale. State Representative Matt Woods also presented a proclamation in honor of Mayor
Walker during this ceremony.


The Council of the City of Dora, Alabama met in the Dora Civic Center at 6:00 p.m. We were led in prayer by Bishop Phillip Walker. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mayor Walker.
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Walker. Roll call was taken by Stacy Turner.

Present at the meeting were David Box, Chris Edwards, George Sides, Jr., Gary Thomas, Robert Busby and Mayor Walker. Norman Holt and Randy Spears were absent. A quorum was in attendance.

Item #5- Approval of the Minutes – The minutes of the January 11, 2024 regular meeting
minutes were reviewed. A motion was made by George Sides, Jr. to accept the minutes as
written. The motion was seconded by David Box. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #6 – Old Business –None.

Item #7-Bill List-George Sides, Jr. made a motion to approve the bill list dated January 24,2024. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #8—Ordinance #2-2024-Bretford J. Griffin Annexation–The proposed ordinance has been posted for the required number of days in the Daily Mountain Eagle and public can be heard at this point regarding proposed annexation. No comments were made by the public. Chris Edwards made a motion to accept Ordinance #1-2024 to annex Bretford Griffin’s property into City Limits of Dora. The motion was seconded by George Sides, Jr. All in favor and the motion carried.

Mayor Walker opened the floor for public comments. A representative from American
Legionnaire Post 23 congratulated Mayor Walker. Mayor Walker mentioned he would like to
schedule workshops in the future with council members. Gary Thomas made the motion to adjourn the meeting. Mayor Walker seconded the motion.

All in favor and meeting was adjourned.

Council Minutes – 2/22/24

Regular Session Minutes of the
Council of the City of Dora, Alabama
February 22, 2024

The Council of the City of Dora, Alabama met in the Dora Municipal Building at 6:00 p.m. We
were led in prayer by Eric Tolbert. Mayor Hezikiah Walker, Jr. led the Pledge of Allegiance.
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Walker. Roll call was taken by Stacy Turner. Present at the meeting were Norman Holt, George Sides, Jr., Gary Thomas, Robert Busby and Mayor Walker. David Box, Chris Edwards and Randy Spears were absent. A quorum was in attendance.

David Box arrived at 6:02 p.m. prior to Item #5.

Item #5— Proclamation-Mrs. Doris Jean Harris-Mayor Walker read and presented the proclamation recognizing Mrs. Doris Jean Harris.

Item #6-Approval of the Minutes – The minutes of the February 8, 2024, regular meeting
minutes were reviewed. A motion was made by George Sides, Jr. to accept the minutes as
written. The motion was seconded by Gary Thomas. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #7 – Old Business –Mayor Walker updated the council on various topics. The equipment
lending agreement has been signed by the Mayor of Graysville and Mayor Walker. We are
awaiting the repair facility to give us a start date for our fire engine repair to execute the
agreement with Graysville.


Mayor Walker related the trees have been cleared at the lake in preparation for Coston General Contractors to begin construction on the pavilion on March 1, 2024. He also related that the area was being prepared this week for the covered shed for their fire engine at the fire department and it was discovered there were several trees that needed removed. After Jackson Tree Service completed the tree removal at the lake, they were able to remove these trees behind the fire department.


Mayor Walker related the work session held on February 15, 2024, was productive and well
attended. He stated one of the issues discussed was the use of K-9 dog Charlie and we will get an agreement presented to council soon.

The annexation petitions are still being turned in and being worked on as quickly as possible. Mayor Walker discussed a meeting that was held with Love’s Truck Stop. He related Love’s is considering a site in Dora and beginning their due diligence with Drummond Company on the Heritage Landing property site. As for an official announcement, Love’s will wait to do an official announcement once they get through a good bit of their due diligence and have full confidence that the project will make it. Love’s did ask for council recommendations as far as choices for potential restaurant choices inside Love’s. Mayor Walker also requested a committee be formed to work on this project. George Sides volunteered for the committee. Marion Combs also volunteered for the committee.


Mayor Walker also announced a work session will be held on March 7, 2024 @ 6 p.m. at Dora
City Council Chambers.


Item #8— Bill List – A motion was made by Norman Holt to approve the bill lists dated
February 21, 2024. Motion was seconded by George Sides. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #9 –Park-Security Camera Quotes–Two estimates were received from Carter Sound
Solutions, LLC for security cameras to be placed at the park that will provide an up-close view of the basketball court, bathroom entrance, picnic area and concession stand. Carter Sound Solutions installed security cameras for the police department and this system for the park will allow the police department to view the camera footage. It will eliminate the need for a separate monthly Spectrum bill, and we could eventually network the civic center, fire department and lake pavilion to all be viewed in the police department. Gary Thomas made a motion to accept the estimate of $4,434.36 (four thousand four hundred thirty-four and 36/100) plus a one-time charge of $215 (two hundred fifteen and no/100) for a router (if needed). Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion passed.

Item #10 – Park-Propane Cabinet– During our loss control audit with the worker’s comp
insurance company, it was discovered the propane tanks were being kept inside the concession stand that is used for their outdoor grill. We were informed the propane tanks cannot be stored inside a building. Norman Holt made a motion to purchase the freestanding flammable liquid safety storage cabinet that can be locked for $755 (seven hundred fifty-five and no/100). David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion passed.

Item #11-Golf Course-Christmas Lights– George Sides made a motion to approve the
commercial Christmas Lighting Estimate for Horse Creek Golf Course for 890.86 (eight hundred ninety and 86/100). This did not include labor which may cost an additional $1775 (one thousand seven hundred seventy-five and no/100) the first year of installation. This will be paid from the golf course account. Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #12-Golf Course-Daily Rates- A comparison chart was used to compare the rates from
Graysville-Mountain View Golf Course, Cullman-Cross Creek Municipal Golf Course and a
Robert Trent Jones golf course. Norman Holt made a motion to increase the daily rate per round of golf across the board $2 as follows and to also allow our weekend rates to include Friday and Holidays: Weekday (Mon.-Thur.) AM-$33; Weekday (Mon.-Thur.) after 2:30p.m.-$28; Weekend (Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Holidays)-$43; Weekend (Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Holidays) after 2:30 p.m-$32.; Senior Rate-$30. David Box seconded the motion. This rate increase will be in effect as of March 1, 2024. The membership and cart fees will be evaluated at a future date.


Roll Call Vote: David Box-Yes; Norman Holt-Yes; George Sides, Jr.-No; Gary Thomas-Yes;
Robert Busby-Yes; Mayor Walker-No. Yes-4; No-2; The motion carried.


Item #13-Byars and Wright Insurance Premium- Our property insurance rate for 2024 has
increased approximately $23,000 (twenty-three thousand) compared to our last year’s premium. In addition to this increase, Byars and Wright is no longer providing interest free installment arrangements. George Sides made a motion that we pay the $21,501 (twenty-one thousand five hundred one and no/100) down payment and begin monthly installments which will be $9,116.65 (nine thousand one hundred sixteen and 65/100) per month. This will result in $5,126.50 (five thousand one hundred twenty-six and 50/100) worth of finance charges. Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion passed. Mayor Walker informed the Council the roof on City Hall and Civic Center will more than likely need to be replaced in the near future.

Item #14-Exterminator Quote- A quote was received from Blanton Exterminating who
currently provides our termite bond and fire ant/mosquito protection for the playground and ball fields to begin our quarterly general pest control for City Hall/Police Department, Fire Department and Civic Center for $240 (two hundred forty and no/100) per quarter. This would be a $40 (forty) increase per quarter. George Sides made a motion to accept the estimate of $240 (two hundred forty) per quarter by Blanton Exterminating to service City Hall/Police Department, Fire Department and Civic Center. Robert Busby seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #15-Fire Department Uniform Allowance- George Sides, Jr. made a motion to approve a
$600 (six hundred and no/100) yearly uniform allowance to include items that are worn daily (polo shirts, job shirt, uniform pants, T-shirts, shoes and other items deemed necessary by the Fire Chief) for both full time employees at the fire department Gary Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #16-Fire Department-Storage Lockers-Fire Chief Booth related lockers are needed for
the bedrooms at the fire station. This will allow for firefighters to house toiletries and additional clothing items at the fire station so that showers can be taken within an hour of a structure fire as recommended by NFPA in an effort to reduce the risk of cancer. George Sides made a motion to approve the purchase of a total of six lockers at $150 (one hundred fifty and no/100) each for a total of $900 (nine hundred and no/100). Robert Busby seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #17-Adjourn-Gary Thomas made the motion to adjourn the meeting. Norman Holt
seconded the motion. All in favor and meeting was adjourned.

Workshop Session Minutes – 2/15/24

Workshop Session Minutes of the
Council of the City of Dora, Alabama

February 15, 2024

The Council of the City of Dora, Alabama met in the Dora Municipal Building at
6:00 p.m.

Present at the meeting were Mayor Hezikiah Walker, Jr., David Box, George Sides, Jr.,
Norman Holt, Chris Edwards, Randy Spears, Gary Thomas and Robert Busby. City Clerk
Stacy Turner was absent.


The purpose of the meeting was to discuss a written K-9 policy, weather policy in the
event of road closures and possible implementation of a diesel fuel tax at the Heritage
Landing Development.

Council Minutes – 2/8/24

Regular Session Minutes of the
Council of the City of Dora, Alabama

February 8, 2024

The Council of the City of Dora, Alabama met in the Dora Municipal Building at 6:00 p.m. We
were led in prayer by Gary Thomas. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mayor Hezikiah
Walker, Jr.


The meeting was called to order by Mayor Walker. Roll call was taken by Stacy Turner. Present at the meeting were David Box, Norman Holt, Chris Edwards, George Sides, Jr., Randy Spears, Gary Thomas, Robert Busby and Mayor Walker. A quorum was in attendance.

Item #5— Approval of the Minutes – The minutes of the January 25, 2024, regular meeting
minutes were reviewed. A motion was made by Gary Thomas to accept the minutes as written. The motion was seconded by Robert Busby. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #6 – Old Business –New Police Vehicle Equipment-A quote from Jackson Communication Service, LLC to outfit the new vehicle as a patrol vehicle was received for $9,715 (nine thousand seven hundred fifteen and no/100) and a separate charge for the laptop mount for $307.49 (three hundred seven and 49/100) for a total cost of $10,022.49 (ten thousand twenty-two and 49/100). Daid Box made a motion to approve both purchases. Randy Spears seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #7— Bill List – A motion was made by Randy Spears to approve the bill lists dated
February 7, 2024, and to confirm the invoices paid were accurate on the Acushnet bill for the
golf course. Motion was seconded by Norman Holt. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #8 – Departmental Reports – A motion was made by Norman Holt to approve January
2024 Department Reports A-G. Motion was seconded by David Box. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #9 –Surplus Property Bids–Sealed bids were opened for the 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe. The
minimum bid was $1500 (one thousand five hundred and no/100). James Durham (J&J
Merchant) bid $1777.77 (one thousand seven hundred seventy-seven and no/100); Chris
Edwards bid $1750 (one thousand seven hundred fifty and no/100); Hunter Hyche bid $1501
(one thousand five hundred one and no/100). Randy Spears made a motion to accept the highest bid by James Durham (J&J Merchant) of $1777.77 (one thousand seven hundred seventy-seven and no/100). Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion passed. Sealed bids were opened for the 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe. The minimum bid was $1000 (one thousand and no/100). Chris Edwards bid $1300 (one thousand three hundred and no/100); Hunter Hyche bid $1001 (one thousand one and no/100); James Durham (J&J Merchant) bid $1877.77 (one thousand eight hundred seventy-seven and 77/100); Mike West bid $1541 (one thousand five hundred forty-one and no/100). Randy Vines bid $1777.77 (one thousand seven hundred seventy-seven and no/100). Robert Busby made a motion to accept the highest bid by James Durham (J&J Merchant) of $1877.77 (one thousand eight hundred seventy-seven and 77/100). Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #10 – Blanton Media Contract Renewal – Norman Holt made a motion to renew the one-
year contract with Blanton Media for managing the social media pages for the City of Dora for $385/month (three hundred eighty-five and no/100) and Horse Creek Golf Course for
$350/month (three hundred fifty and no/100). After this one-year contract ends, the contract will become month-to-month and can be terminated at any time at that point. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion passed.


Item #11-Fire Department Grant Contract – David Box made a motion to approve the
contract with DH Grants for grant consultant/writing services to apply for FY 2023 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program. The fee to write and administer the grant is $500 (five hundred and no/100). Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #12-Fire Department Emergency Repair Engine 3- A leak in the tank and pump of Fire
Engine 3 was discovered and has caused a considerable amount of rust to the frame and gauges need replaced. This is a two-week repair, and the City of Graysville has graciously offered to let us use one of their engines while ours is out of service. An equipment lending agreement will need to be signed by both parties for insurance purposes during the period of time Graysville’s engine is in our care. The repair quote from Nafeco, Inc. to repair Engine 3 was $8045.66 (eight thousand forty-five and 66/100). The repair quote from Brindlee Mountain was $16988 (sixteen thousand nine hundred eighty-eight and no/100). Chris Edwards made a motion to approve the quote for repair from Nafeco for $8045.66 (eight thousand forty-five and 66/100) and to authorize Mayor Walker to draft an agreement with the City of Graysville to use their fire engine while ours is being repaired. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #13-Resolution #2-2024- Agreement with ALDOT for Maintenance of Public Right of
Way- David Box made a motion to accept Resolution #2-2024-Agreement with ALDOT for
Maintenance of Public Right of Way. Randy Spears seconded the motion. All in favor and the
motion passed.

Item #14-Dora Lake Pavilion Project Update- Mayor Walker informed the Council about the
pre-construction meeting with Nelson Engineering and Coston General Contractors. The project is scheduled to begin March 1 and should take approximately 90 (ninety) days to complete.

Item #15-Jackson Tree Service- There are approximately 32 (thirty-two) trees in the area of the site of the lake pavilion that need to be removed. Chris Edwards made a motion to approve the quote from Jackson Tree Service for $8,800 (eight thousand eight hundred and no/100) to take down 32 (thirty-two) trees, clean up and grind 24 (twenty-four) tree stumps. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


A work session is scheduled Thursday February 15, 2024, at 6 p.m. to discuss past and future
projects for the City of Dora, personnel policy updates specifically to address an inclement
weather policy when the roads are closed and also to address K-9 Charlie’s status as an employee and the cost of his care.


Item #16-Adjourn-Norman Holt made the motion to adjourn the meeting. Chris Edwards
seconded the motion. All in favor and meeting was adjourned.

Council Minutes – 12/21/23

Regular Session Minutes of the
Council of the City of Dora, Alabama
December 21, 2023

The Council of the City of Dora, Alabama met in the Dora Municipal Building at 6:00 p.m. We
were led in prayer by Mayor Hezikiah Walker, Jr. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mayor
Hezikiah Walker, Jr.


The meeting was called to order by Mayor Hezikiah Walker, Jr. Roll call was taken by Stacy
Turner. Present at the meeting were David Box, Chris Edwards, George Sides, Jr., Randy Spears, and Mayor Walker. Norman Holt and Gary Thomas were absent. A quorum was in attendance.

At this time, Mayor Walker thanked the Council for his recent appointment as Mayor and the
opportunity to serve the city for the remainder of this term.

Item #5 – Approval of Minutes-The minutes of the December 7, 2023 council meeting were
reviewed. A motion was made by Chris Edwards to accept the minutes as written. The motion was seconded by David Box. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #6 – Old Business-


Christmas Committee – Mayor Walker recognized all those who served on the Christmas
Committee this year to include Neisa Gooch, Jeremy Hicks, Stacy Turner, Susan Uptain, Karen Walker and the entire street department who set up all the decorations this year.

Walker County Children’s Advocacy Center – Mayor Walker informed the Council of the letter
of gratitude received from the WCCAC for the City’s recent donation.


Medical Clinic – Maloy & Co. who performed the last appraisal on the medical clinic has been contacted and will update the appraisal in January for a fee of $1,100 (one thousand one hundred and no/100).


At this time, Chris Edwards made a motion to nominate Robert Busby to fill the council seat
vacancy. David Box seconded the motion. A brief discussion was had by Mayor Walker and the council members regarding this motion and this item not being on the agenda for tonight’s meeting.

Chris Edwards made a motion to add to the agenda for tonight’s meeting the appointment of a new council member to the vacant council seat. Randy Spears seconded the motion.
Chris Edwards made a motion to appoint Robert Busby to the council seat vacancy. David Box seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote: Chris Edwards-YES; George Sides, Jr.-NO; Randy Spears-YES; David Box-YES; Mayor Walker-NO; YES=3; NO=2. The motion carried. It was decided that Mr. Busby’s oath of office will be done at the next council meeting by the city clerk and the official oath of office ceremony for Mayor Walker and Councilman Robert Busby will be on January 25, 2024.

Item #7 – Bill List-George Sides, Jr. made a motion to approve the bill lists dated December 20, 2023. Chris Edwards seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #8 – Dora Lake Project – Pavilion Bids – The bid opening for the lake pavilion project was
held on Thursday, December 14, 2023. There were only two bids for the project. The
Pennington Group bid $313,000 (three hundred thirteen thousand and no/100) and Coston
General Contracting bid $312,061 (three hundred twelve thousand sixty-one and no/100). Chris Edwards made a motion to accept the low bid by Coston General Contracting. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

It was discussed to contact the Boy Scouts troop leader to seek permission to have the boy scout building painted which is on the lake property.

Item #9 – Ordinance #1 – 2024 – Erma Hawkins Annexation – First Reading of Ordinance #1-
2024-Erma Hawkins Annexation. Mayor Walker presented the petition from Erma Hawkins for annexation into the City of Dora.

Open Forum-The floor was open to the public for any comments. None were made.

Item #10 – Executive Session – Randy Spears made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss legal matters regarding Heritage Landing and that council would adjourn after executive session is completed. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Randy Spears made a motion to return to regular session. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Mayor Walker made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Chris Edwards seconded the motion. All in favor and the meeting adjourned.

Council Minutes – 12/7/23

Regular Session Minutes of the
Council of the City of Dora, Alabama
December 7, 2023

The Council of the City of Dora, Alabama met in the Dora Municipal Building at 6:00 p.m. We
were led in prayer by Gary Thomas. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mayor Pro-Tem
Norman Holt.


The meeting was called to order by Mayor Pro-Tem Norman Holt. Roll call was taken by Stacy
Turner. Present at the meeting were David Box, Norman Holt, Chris Edwards, George Sides, Jr.,
Randy Spears, Gary Thomas and Hezikiah Walker, Jr. A quorum was in attendance.


Item #5 – Proclamation Recognizing Dora High School Marching Band Outstanding Season
was read and presented to Band Director Jeremy McFall and thirteen of the Senior Band
Members.


Item #6 – Approval of Minutes-The minutes of the November 16, 2023 council meeting were
reviewed. A motion was made by George Sides, Jr. to accept the minutes as written. The motion was seconded by Randy Spears. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #7 – Old Business-Police Patrol Vehicle-George Sides, Jr. made a motion to approve the
purchase of a 2024 Dodge Durango Pursuit Vehicle for $41,477.36 (forty-one thousand four
hundred seventy-seven and 36/100) to be paid out of the court fund. This vehicle is on the state bid list. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #8 – Bill List-George Sides, Jr. made a motion to approve the bill list dated December 6, 2023. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #9 – Departmental Reports: George Sides, Jr. made a motion to approve Departmental
Reports A-H. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion passed.

Item #10 – Golf Course Request-Don Cummings presented a quote for a used 2021 JCB 35Z-1
mini trackhoe with bushhog attachment with 695 (six hundred ninety-five) hours for $53,875 (fifty-three thousand eight hundred seventy-five and no/100). He related a warranty can be purchased for an additional $7,000 (seven thousand and no/100). Another option is to purchase the same piece of equipment new which is on the state bid list for $67,745 (sixty-seven thousand seven hundred forty-five and no/100). Chris Edwards made a motion to purchase a new JCB 35Z-1 with a two (2) year/2000(two thousand) hour full machine warranty for $67,745 (sixty-seven thousand seven hundred forty-five and no/100). David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion passed.


Item #11 – Walker County Children’s Advocacy Center – Chris Edwards made a motion to
donate $2,500 (two thousand five hundred and no/100) to the Walker County Children’s
Advocacy Center. Randy Spears seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #12 – Medical Clinic – There is someone interested in purchasing the medical clinic. The last appraisal from 2017 was reviewed. Randy Spears made a motion to have an updated appraisal performed at the medical clinic on 415 Horsecreek Boulevard to determine a sale price for the property. Chris Edwards seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried. If the interested party desires to place an offer on the building, they may present the offer to the Council for review.

Item #13 – Police Officer Virtual Training- George Sides, Jr. made a motion to purchase Virtual
Academy accounts for all Dora Police Officers. The program is $45 per officer per year which
would cost the City approximately $315 (three hundred fifteen and no/100) at the average rate of seven officers employed by the City. This will be paid for out of the court fund. Randy Spears Edwards seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #14 – Fire Department Request-Chief Booth discussed the need to surplus the 2005
Chevrolet Tahoe and old firehose. Hezikiah Walker, Jr. made a motion to surplus the Chevrolet Tahoe and the firehose. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion passed. Randy Spears approved the request to have the emergency response package be installed on the new Command truck, to also have the truck marked to represent the Dora Fire Department, a 2023 tonneau bed cover, lights, siren, radio at a cost which may range from $8,000 (eight thousand) to $12,000 (twelve thousand). David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


Chief Booth related that the part-time positions at the fire department are currently being filled by approximately four different employees. She would like to consider creating one full-time position to eliminate so many part-time employees. She related the part time employees contribute to the retirement currently so the additional cost for the City would be the cost of the health insurance coverage, paid time off and paid holidays. She relates the current pay range is $12 (twelve)-$14 (fourteen) per hour currently depending on qualifications. She would like to fill this position for an employee at the rate of $14 (fourteen)/hour. She relates she has discussed the possibility of this full-time position with her part-time employees and there are a couple who are interested in the position and she would like to offer the position to one of her current employees.

Randy Spears made a motion to approve a full-time position at the fire department. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #15 – Yerkwood Residents’ Annexation- Hezikiah Walker, Jr. related that he, Chris
Edwards, Norman Holt and Gary Thomas went to a meeting at St. Joseph Church last night and provided information about annexing into the City Limits of Dora and explained any potential costs and discussed the benefits of being annexed into the City Limits.

Item #16-Recognition of Mayor’s Vacant Seat-Chris Edwards made a motion to recognize the
vacancy of the Mayor’s seat. Randy Spears seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion
carried.

George Sides, Jr. nominated Hezekiah Walker, Jr. as Mayor of Dora.

Marion Combs stated he would like to be considered for the Mayor’s position. There was no
motion by the City Council to nominate Marion Combs.

There were no other nominations by the City Council for the election of a Mayor.

George Sides, Jr. made a motion to appoint Hezekiah Walker, Jr. as Mayor of Dora. Gary
Thomas seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote: David Box-YES; Norman Holt-ABSTAIN; Chris
Edwards-NO; George Sides, Jr.-YES; Randy Spears-YES; Gary Thomas-YES; Hezekiah
Walker, Jr.-YES. YES-5; NO-1; ABSTAIN-1. The motion carried.


Item #17-Recognition Vacancy of Council Seat – Hezikiah Walker, Jr made a motion to
recognize the vacancy of a council seat. George Sides, Jr. seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #18 – Oath of Office – City Clerk Stacy Turner administered the Oath of Office to Mayor
Hezekiah Walker, Jr.

Mayor Walker made a motion to adjourn. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.