Council Minutes – 10/21/25

Regular Session Minutes of the
Council of the City of Dora, Alabama
October 23, 2025

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


Item #5—Approval of the Minutes – The minutes of the October 9, 2025 regular session
meeting minutes were reviewed. A motion was made by Chris Edwards to accept the minutes as written. The motion was seconded by Robert Busby. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #6— Bill List – A motion was made by Norman Holt to approve the bill list dated October
22, 2025. Motion was seconded by David Box. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #7- Old Business-Mayor Walker gave an update on the construction progress at Love’s.


Item #8-Ordinance #22-2025- An Ordinance Regulating the Sale of Gasoline, Diesel Fuel
and Other Fuel Related Products (Second Reading). The Ordinance has been posted and
published as required by law. Public comments can be heard at this time. No comment was
made. Chris Edwards made a motion to adopt Ordinance #22-2025- An Ordinance Regulating the Sale of Gasoline, Diesel Fuel and Other Fuel Related Products. Norman Holt seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote: Robert Busby-YES; Mayor Walker-YES; David Box-YES; Norman Holt-YES; Chris Edwards-YES; George Sides-YES; YES=6. The motion carried.


Item #9-Resolution #23-2025-Resolution Approving the City of Dora’s Participation in the
State of Alabama Severe Weather Preparedness Tax Holiday for the Year 2026- Robert
Busby made a motion to approve Resolution #23-2025–Resolution Approving the City of Dora’s Participation in the States of Alabama Severe Weather Preparedness Tax Holiday for the Year 2026. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #10-Horse Creek Golf Course Christmas Lighting-Norman Holt made a motion to
approve Estimate #1 for a 16.5 foot animated pixel tree in the amount of $7,778.98 (seven
thousand seven hundred seventy-eight and 98/100) and Estimate #4 which includes six outdoor wreaths for the sign and clubhouse columns and Christmas lights on wreaths, shrubs and trees around the sign in the amount of $1358.05 (one thousand three hundred fifty-eight and 05/100) from Carter Sound Solutions. David Box seconded the motion. Robert Busby-YES; Mayor Walker-YES; David Box-YES; Norman Holt-YES; Chris Edwards-YES; George Sides-NO. YES=5. NO=1. The motion carried.


Item #11-Public Comment- Mayor Walker opened the floor for public comment. Mayor Elect
Marion Combs related the swearing in ceremony will be held on November 3, 2025 @ 6 p.m. in the civic center with Judge Joletta Barrentine administering the oaths of office.

Mayor Walker and Councilman Holt both expressed their gratitude to the council during their term. Mayor Walker related the swearing in ceremony for the new Mayor and Council will be November 3 @ 6 p.m. @ the Dora Civic Center.


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

    Council Minutes – 10/9/25

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

    October 9, 2025

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


    Item #5—Holiday “Pop-Up” Market at Civic Center-Holly Fowler, a local business owner is
    planning a holiday pop-up market on November 15, 2025 from 10 a.m. thru 4 p.m. She would
    like a day rate instead of an hourly rate to rent the civic center to be able to use both rooms for this event. She has several vendors planning on setting up booths for this event. Registration packets will be assembled for the vendors to be able to submit their taxes for the event. Randy Spears made a motion to charge a $500 (five hundred and no/100) day rate rental fee for the civic center for the event. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


    Item #6-Approval of the Minutes – The minutes of the September 25, 2025 regular session
    meeting minutes were reviewed. A motion was made by Randy Spears to accept the minutes as written. The motion was seconded by Robert Busby. All in favor and the motion carried.
    The minutes of the October 2, 2025 work session minutes were reviewed. A motion was made by Randy Spears to accept the minutes as written. The motion was seconded by Gary Thomas. All in favor and the motion carried.


    Item #7—Departmental Reports A-F-Randy Spears made a motion to approve departmental
    reports A-F. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.
    Item #8-Bill List – A motion was made by Gary Thomas to approve the bill list dated October 8, 2025. Motion was seconded by Randy Spears. All in favor and the motion carried.


    Item #9-Old Business-None.


    Item #10-Ordinance #22-2025-An Ordinance Regulating the Sale of Gasoline, Diesel Fuel
    and Related Vehicle Products (First Reading)-Ordinance #22-2025 – An Ordinance
    Regulating the Sale of Gasoline, Diesel Fuel and Related Vehicle Products was presented for its first reading with the corrections included as discussed prior to the first reading. The ordinance will be posted and published as required by law.


    Item #11-Ordinance #18-2025 Property Annexation of Rochelle Stewart-5098 Sharon
    Boulevard (Second Reading)- Ordinance #18-2025 Property Annexation of Rochelle Stewart
    was presented for the second reading. The ordinance has been posted and published as required by law. Public comment can be heard at this time. None was made. Randy Spears made a motion to accept Ordinance #18-2025 Property Annexation of Rochelle Stewart. David Box seconded the motion. ROLL CALL VOTE: Chris Edwards-YES; George Sides-YES; Randy Spears-YES; Gary Thomas-YES; Robert Busby-YES; Mayor Walker-YES; David Box-YES. YES=7. The motion carried.


    Item #12-Ordinance #19-2025 Property Annexation of Daphne Doaty-55 Doaty Street
    (Second Reading)- Ordinance #19-2025 Property Annexation of Daphne Doaty was presented
    for the second reading. The ordinance has been posted and published as required by law. Public comment can be heard at this time. None was made. Randy Spears made a motion to accept

    Ordinance #19-2025 Property Annexation of Daphne Doaty. David Box seconded the motion.
    ROLL CALL VOTE: Chris Edwards-YES; George Sides-YES; Randy Spears-YES; Gary
    Thomas-YES; Robert Busby-YES; Mayor Walker-YES; David Box-YES. YES=7. The motion
    carried.


    Item #13- Ordinance #20-2025 Property Annexation of Cassandra Towns-125 Oakahalla
    Drive (Second Reading)- Ordinance #20-2025 Property Annexation of Cassandra Towns was
    presented for the second reading. The ordinance has been posted and published as required by law. Public comment can be heard at this time. None was made. Randy Spears made a motion to accept Ordinance #20-2025 Property Annexation of Cassandra Towns. David Box seconded the motion. ROLL CALL VOTE: George Sides-YES; Randy Spears-YES; Gary Thomas-YES; Robert Busby-YES; Mayor Walker-YES; David Box-YES; Chris Edwards=YES. YES=7. The
    motion carried.


    Item #14-Police Department Requests:
    a. Police Chief Computer
    b. Body Cam Footage Backup System
    c. Civic Center Security Cameras


    Randy Spears made a motion to approve the following estimates from Carter Sound Solutions, LLC: Estimate 1 Police Chief Workstation Computer in the amount of $2,178.80 (two thousand once hundred seventy-eight and 80/100) to include the yearly upgrade of the email license to 286.80 (two hundred eighty-six and 80/100) and anti-virus protection in the amount of $54(fifty-four and no/100) per year; Estimate 1 Pro Grade Network attached storage for the body cam footage backup system in the amount of $2041.18 (two thousand forty-one and 18/100) plus $999 (nine hundred ninety-nine and no/100) to expand the storage estimate to 68TB; and Estimate 1 for a 4K camera for the police evidence room located in the civic center in the amount of $467.70 (four hundred sixty-seven and 70/100). The funding for these projects can come from the opioid settlement. Robert Busby seconded the motion.


    Item #15-Resolution #20-2025-Resolution To Apply For ARC Grant with Match-Chris
    Edwards made a motion to approve Resolution #20-2025-Resolution To Apply For ARC Grant
    with Match for the water tower. Robert Busby seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion passed.


    Item #16-Resolution #21-2025-Resolution for Grant Writing Services- Randy Spears made a
    motion to approve Resolution #21-2025-Resolution for Grant Writing Services. David Box
    seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


    Item #17-Resolution #22-2025-Resolution for Engineering Services- Chris Edwards made a
    motion to approve Resolution #22-2025-Resolution for Engineering Services. David Box
    seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


    Item #18-Public Comment- Mayor Walker discussed two fall festivals that will be taking place on October 26, 2025 that plan to use our parking lot for the events. Mayor Walker opened the floor for public comment and none was made.


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

    Council Minutes – 9/12/25

    Regular Session Minutes of the
    Council of the City of Dora, Alabama
    September 25, 2025

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

    Item #5—Approval of the Minutes – The minutes of the September 11, 2025 regular session
    meeting minutes were reviewed. A motion was made by George Sides to accept the minutes as written. The motion was seconded by Robert Busby. All in favor and the motion carried.


    Item #6— Bill List – A motion was made by George Sides to approve the bill list dated
    September 24, 2025. Motion was seconded by Robert Busby. All in favor and the motion carried.


    Item #7-Gas Tax Ordinance-Allan Rice presented a rough draft which has been reviewed by
    Jim Brakefield for a gas tax ordinance to include a tax on diesel fuel which our current two cent gas tax does not include. A work session will be needed to discuss the amount of the fuel tax before approval.


    Allan Rice also discussed the status of establishing zoning ordinances and classifications.


    Item #8-Old Business


    a. AL Vape Tax Ordinance-Chris Edwards made a motion to suspend the rules for
    immediate consideration of Ordinance #21-2025- An Ordinance Levying a Tax Upon the
    Sale of Consumable Vapor Products Within the City of Dora, Alabama. George Sides
    seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote: David Box-YES; Chris Edwards-YES; George
    Sides-YES; Randy Spears-YES; Gary Thomas-YES; Robert Busby-YES; Mayor Walker-
    YES. YES=7.


    Chris Edwards made a motion to adopt Ordinance #21-2025-An Ordinance Levying a
    Tax Upon the Sale of Consumable Vapor Products Within the City of Dora, Alabama to
    collect ten cents per milliliter per vapor product within the City Limits of Dora. Rany
    Spears seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote: Randy Spears-YES; Gary Thomas-YES;
    Robert Busby-YES; Mayor Walker-YES; David Box-YES; Chris Edwards-YES; Geroge
    Sides-YES. YES-7. The motion carried.


    b. Heritage Landing Update-Mayor Walker gave an update from Drummond Company on
    the progress of Heritage Landing/Love’s Travel Stop.


    c. AL Power Lighting-Sharon Blvd @ Heritage Landing-Mayor Walker related that the
    lighting contract had been approved for the street lights on Sharon Boulevard and
    Heritage Landing entrance. After the three-year term for billing has ended, the monthly
    billing will be based on usage.


    d. City of Lights and Dora Fishing Team Donation Update-Mayor Walker related that he
    spoke with an attorney at ALM and we are unable to donate to the fishing team due to the
    type of organization they are now instead of being a school organization. The City of
    Lights provides services that benefit the public and can be an acceptable donation. Mayor
    Walker related he will personally donate $75 (seventy-five and no/100) to the council
    approved $25 (twenty-five and no/100) donation from last meeting to donate a total of
    $100 (one hundred and no/100).


    e. Street Department 2026 Ford F-350 truck-Mayor Walker related Jeremy Hicks went to
    Montgomery to pick up the dump truck today and it was paid for out of the general fund.


    f. ARC Power Grant-Funding for water tower-The City of Dora has received approval
    from ARC to submit a full application for the ARC Power Grant for a new water tower.
    The application deadline is October 22. The funding will come from the general fund and
    we will get a bond or a loan for our matching portion if awarded the grant.

    g. Sharon Boulevard & High School water connection-Nathan Love the contractor for
    the new high school construction and Darrel Waid from Walker County Board of
    Education were present to discuss the open cut of Sharon Boulevard in order for the
    contractor to reach the water line. It was discussed the cost of boring under the road
    instead of an open cut or accessing the water line from Highway 78 on the road that runs
    in front of Hillside Church and behind Sides Furniture. The contractor will speak with the
    engineer about the possibility of an open cut verses boring the road.


    h. Dora Utilities Fire Hydrant Update-Randy Spears provided an update on the progress
    of the fire hydrant repairs and to date eight have been repaired.


    Item #9-Regional Planning Commission of Greater Birmingham Membership Dues-Chris
    Edwards made a motion to approve the renewal of the annual membership to Regional Planning Membership of Greater Birmingham in the amount of $1,390 (one thousand three hundred ninety and no/100). Robert Busby seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


    Item #10-Fiscal Year 2025 Audit-The letter from Kellum, Wilson and Associates was reviewed
    to initiate our fiscal year audit. Chris Edwards made a motion to initiate the audit. He then
    withdrew his motion. It was decided to wait and let the upcoming Mayor make the decision on which accounting firm to audit the city.


    Item #11-MunicipalClerk Fall Institute/Winter Conference-Randy Spears made a motion to
    approve the City Clerk to attend the University of Alabama Fall Institute/Winter Conference in Tuscaloosa December 9-12 in the amount of $1,072 (one thousand seventy-two and no/100). Robert Busby seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


    Item #12-Ordinance #18-2025 Property Annexation of Rochelle Stewart-5098 Sharon
    Boulevard (First Reading)- Ordinance #18-2025 Property Annexation of Rochelle Stewart was
    presented for the first reading. The petition for annexation and a map of said property was
    presented. The ordinance will be posted and published as required by law.


    Item #13-Ordinance #19-2025 Property Annexation of Daphne Doaty-55 Doaty Street
    (First Reading)- Ordinance #19-2025 Property Annexation of Daphne Doaty was presented for
    the first reading. The petition for annexation and a map of said property was presented. The
    ordinance will be posted and published as required by law.


    Item #14- Ordinance #20-2025 Property Annexation of Cassandra Towns-125 Oakahalla
    Drive (First Reading)- Ordinance #20-2025 Property Annexation of Cassandra Towns was
    presented for the first reading. The petition for annexation and a map of said property was
    presented. The ordinance will be posted and published as required by law.


    Mayor Walker related a work session will be held Thursday, October 2, 2025 at 6 p.m.


    Item #15-Public Comment- Mayor Walker opened the floor for public comment and none was
    made.

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

    Council Minutes – 9/11/25

    Regular Session Minutes of the
    Council of the City of Dora, Alabama
    September 11, 2025

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


    Item #5—Dora Fishing Team-Jason Sayers-Jason Sayers is the new president of the Dora
    Fishing Team and Kristin Hyche the treasurer was also present to ask the city to sponsor the
    team as done previously. Dora Fishing Team is now in the process of becoming an exempt
    organization as described in Section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code. George Sides
    made a motion to donate $300 (three hundred and no/100) to the Dora Fishing Team if we get approval to donate to a tax-exempt organization from the attorney. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. Chris Edwards abstained. YES-4; ABSTAIN-1. The motion carried.

    Item #6-Approval of the Minutes – The minutes of the August 28, 2025 regular meeting
    minutes and September 2, 2025 canvass meeting were reviewed. A motion was made by George Sides to accept the minutes as written. The motion was seconded by Gary Thomas. All in favor and the motion carried.

    Item #7— Departmental Reports A-F- Gary Thomas made a motion to approve the
    departmental reports A-F. George Sides seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion
    carried.


    Item #8 – Bill List- A motion was made by Robert Busby to approve the bill list dated
    September 10, 2025. Motion was seconded by Chris Edwards. All in favor and the motion
    carried.


    Item #9-Old Business-

    Prosecutor Pay Raise-Mayor Walker related he spoke with the prosecutor Charles Stephens
    about a possible pay raise. Mr. Stephens relates his hours vary monthly that he works for the city.

    His normal hourly rate is $300 (three hundred and no/100) per hour but for governmental entities he charges $150 (one hundred fifty and no/100) per hour and would like an increase. On average, he works approximately five and one-half hours per month. Chris Edwards made a motion to table this item until the next administration takes their seats in November. Robert Busby seconded the motion. All in favor and the item was tabled.


    Sharon Blvd/RR Ave Grant and/or Possible Loan Update-Mayor Walker related that ADEM
    has to know by tomorrow if the city is interested in the loan from ADEM that was offered for the road project at Sharon Boulevard and Railroad Avenue since the grant funding is not available at this time. Gary Thomas made a motion to defer the loan from ADEM. Chris Edwards seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


    Walking Track Timber Update-Mayor Walker received and distributed the letter from the city
    attorney Jim Brakefield to give permission to Heath Allbright to take his equipment on to the walking trail to access the property of Herschel Chandler and clean up the area of the city’s right of way and plant trees stating that he would be responsible if the walking trail was damaged as a result of this.


    Item #10-City of Lights Music Festival Donation- The City of Lights is having a music
    festival to celebrate seven years of addiction recovery and a spaghetti dinner on Thursday,
    September 25, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. Gary Thomas made a motion to donate $25 (twenty-five and no/100) to the City of Lights Music Festival after determining if this is an acceptable donation from the attorney. Robert Busby seconded the motion. Chris Edwards abstained. YES-4. ABSTAIN-1. The motion carried.


    Item #11- City Hall Glass Replacement Quotes-A quote was received from Smart Glass for
    $2,400 (two thousand four hundred and no/100) and from Long’s Glass for $1,794 (one thousand seven hundred ninety-four and no/100) to replace the top four front windows in the lobby at Dora City Hall. Chief Jared Hall related that the side glass on the door at the police department is broken and needs replaced. Chris Edwards made a motion to approve the quote from Long’s Glass for $1,794 (one thousand seven hundred ninety-four and no/100) to replace the four top windows at city hall and to also include replacing the glass in the side window of the door at the police department. George Sides seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


    Item #12-Police Department Defensive Driving Course- Chief Hall related that he has been a
    defensive driving instructor for six years. The city conducts a driving school every other month for those who qualify for driving school from our court and also Jasper Municipal Court sends participants from their court to our driving school. Chief Hall relates the content being taught was updated in 2023 and his current curriculum is from 2017 and has to update his in order to renew his instructor certification. Chris Edwards made a motion to approve the quote from the National Safety Council for the instructor development course and resource kit in the amount of $2,374.24 (two thousand three hundred seventy-four and 24/100) Robert Busby seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


    Item #13-Fire Department Requests-Robert Busby made a motion to approve the quote from
    MES for $825 (eight hundred twenty five and no/100) for yearly maintenance on the extrication tools, the quote from Zoll for $2,140 (two thousand one hundred forty and no/100) for a one year warranty and maintenance for the defibrillator/heart monitor, the estimate from Brindlee Mountain for $2,263 (two thousand two hundred sixty-three and no/100) for Engine 3 repairs and $500 (five hundred and no/100) for public education materials to be purchased for Fire Prevention Week. George Sides seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

    Item #14-Heritage Landing-

    a. Streetlights on Sharon Boulevard at Heritage Landing-George Sides made a motion
    to pay the monthly bill from AL Power of $266/month for three streetlights to be added
    to existing poles on Sharon Boulevard near the entrance of Heritage Landing. Gary
    Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


    b. Sod Quote for Heritage Landing Entrance-George Sides presented a drawing of the
    entrance to Love’s Travel Center with a quote of $17,000 (seventeen thousand and
    no/100) to have two truck loads of sod installed in the area. George Sides made a motion
    to approve the quote of $17,000 (seventeen thousand and no/100) to have two truckloads
    of sod delivered and installed. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. Chris Edwards voted
    NO. YES-4; NO-1; The motion carried.


    c. Water Tower-ARC Power Grant Letter of Intent-Chris Edwards made a motion to
    send a letter of intent to apply for ARC Power funds. Those projects are to benefit coal
    impacted communities and would have a 50% match. The total cost of a new elevated
    water tank is two million dollars. Robert Busby seconded the motion. All in favor and the
    motion carried.


    Item #15-East Walker Sewer Authority Expense-Chris Edwards made a motion to approve the
    purchase of a metal grate for the East Walker Sewer Authority in the amount of $767.35 (seven hundred sixty-seven and 35/100) and to not bill the sewer authority for this purchase. Robert Busby seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


    Item #16-AL Vape Tax Act-Effective October 1, 2026, Act 2025-377 levies a state excise tax
    of $0.10 per milliliter on all consumable vapor products sold at wholesale or imported into this state for use, consumption, or sale at retail. Any county or municipality that does not levy a local tax on consumable vapor products will receive a portion of the state vapor products tax based upon the ratio of the population of each county or municipality to the total population of all counties or municipalities in the state. Any county/municipality that has a local vapor products tax as of October 1, 2025, will not be eligible to receive a distribution from the proceeds of the state consumable vapor products tax. Furthermore, no county or municipality may levy an additional tax or license fee on the sale of consumable vapor product taxes after October 1, 2025.


    The vapor products tax information will be reviewed and voted on at the next council meeting.

    Public Comment-Mayor Walker opened the floor for public comment. None was made.


    Item #13-Adjourn- Gary Thomas made the motion to adjourn the meeting. Robert Busby
    seconded the motion. All in favor and the meeting was adjourned.

    Council Minutes – 7/24/25

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

    July 24, 2025

    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. Mayor Walker 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 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 July 10, 2025 regular session meeting
    minutes were reviewed. A motion was made by George Sides to accept the minutes as written. The motion was seconded by David Box. All in favor and the motion carried.

    Item #6— Bill List – A motion was made by Norman Holt to approve the bill list dated July 23, 2025. Motion was seconded by Gary Thomas. All in favor and the motion carried.


    Item #7-Mitzi Jones-Al Power-Community Relations Manager-Mitzi Jones is the
    Community Relations Manager for AL Power for the Western Division which includes our
    county and thirteen other counties and seventy-eight municipalities. She provided information regarding all the different ways that AL Power can assist local communities including grants, local athletic support, workforce and industrial development.


    Item #8-Myka Ramsey-Myka Ramsey discussed having a sit and paint class or bingo with the elderly (but could include anyone interested) to be held at the civic center which would cost each person attending $10 (ten & no/100) per event to cover the cost of the supplies and Myka’s time.


    Item #9-Old Business- Financing Options-Rescue Truck and/or Air Packs-Chief Booth
    related that First Government Leasing Corporation reduced their interest rate to finance the
    rescue truck and air packs to 5.75%. Pinnacle Bank offered 5.75% interest rate for a loan amount up to $430,000 (four hundred thirty thousand and no/100). Synovus Bank had not submitted their interest rate at this time for lending purposes.

    Air Packs (SCBA)-A quote from Nafeco was received for sixteen air packs for $121,050.00(one hundred twenty-one thousand fifty dollars and no/100). A quote from MES for sixteen air packs was received for $195,878.88 (one hundred ninety-five thousand eight hundred seventy-eight dollars and 88/100). A quote from Sunbelt Fire for sixteen air packs were received for $163,695.00 (one hundred sixty-three thousand six hundred ninety-five dollars and no/100). These air packs will all come with a ten-year warranty. Chris Edwards made a motion to approve the quote from Nafeco for $121,050.00 (one hundred twenty-one thousand fifty dollars and no/100) to be paid out of the golf course fund. Randy Spears seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


    Rescue Truck-A quote was received from Nafeco for a Rosenbauer Rescue truck with a Ford
    chassis in the amount of $304,895.00 (three hundred four thousand eight hundred ninety-five & no/100) Sourcewell contract #113021-RSD. This unit is a twelve-month build. A quote was received from Deep South Fire Trucks in the amount of $262,250 (two hundred sixty-two thousand two hundred fifty and no/100) for a rescue truck with an international chassis. This unit is a 4–6-month build. Chief Booth related that the Rosenbauer unit would be the best unit for our department based on its durability and the size of the unit. Chris Edwards made a motion to order the Rosenbauer rescue truck from Nafeco for $304,895.00 (three hundred four thousand eight hundred ninety-five and no/100). Robert Busby seconded the motion. Norman Holt voted NO due to the price difference of the two vehicles. The motion passed. The funding for this rescue unit will be decided on at a future meeting.


    Radio System Upgrade-A quote from Mobile Communications America was received for
    $20,515.60 (twenty thousand five hundred fifteen and 60/100) to upgrade the radio system for the fire department and for the fire department to be dispatched from Walker County 911. Both repeaters for the fire and police department will be moved from Radio Tower Road to the fire department. Chris Edwards made a motion to pay $25,515.60 (twenty-five thousand five hundred fifteen and 60/100) to include the cost of a new repeater for the police department to be paid out of the fire department fund. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion passed.

      Item #10-Street Dept-Dump Truck-A quote was reviewed from Stivers Ford off the state bid
      list for a 2026 Ford F-350 truck with a nine-foot dump bed for the street department in the
      amount of $68,737 (sixty-eight thousand seven hundred thirty-seven and no/100). George Sides made a motion to purchase the dump truck for $68,737 (sixty-eight thousand seven hundred thirty-seven and no/100). Chris Edwards seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #11-AL League of Municipalities-Membership Dues-Norman Holt made a motion to
      approve the yearly membership dues with the Alabama League of Municipalities in the amount of $1,617 (one thousand six hundred seventeen and no/100). Chris Edwards seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #12-Walker County Commission Agreement-Election Machines and Poll worker
      Training-Norman Holt made a motion to partner with the Walker County Commission to share the expenses with eight cities of Walker County to share the cost of the setup and removal of the election machines and machine testing and to also participate in their poll worker training to be held on August 19, 2025 @ 6 p.m. at the Jasper Civic Center. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

      Item #13-Resolution #8-2025-Resolution to appoint City Clerk as Absentee Election
      Manager-
      Randy Spears made a motion to approve Resolution #8-2025 to appoint the city clerk as the absentee election manager and $50 (fifty and no/100) per day will be paid to the city clerk on days when absentee election duties are performed. Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #14-Resolution #9-2025-Resolution to appoint Election Officers-Gary Thomas made a motion to approve Resolution #9-2025 to appoint election officers as follows Inspector Terresa Harper, Clerk Donnie Carden, Clerk Joyce Gosha, Clerk Gabriel Hendricks, Clerk Shelia
      Jackson. The Inspector pay will be $150 (one hundred fifty and no/100) and the clerk pay will be $125 (one hundred twenty-five and no/100) for their service on election day. They will be
      compensated $25 (twenty-five and no/100) to attend poll worker school. Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #15-Police Department AC Unit Replacement-The split unit is no longer working in the
      dispatch area of the police department and cannot be repaired. A quote from Freedom Heating and Cooling for a three-ton AC unit was received in the amount of $15,813 (fifteen thousand
      eight hundred thirteen and no/100). A quote from Alabama Cooling and Heating was received for a three-ton Trane unit in the amount of $12,800 (twelve thousand eight hundred and no/100). A quote from Grissom Service Company for a 3-ton Fujitsu mini split system was received for $17,990 (seventeen thousand nine hundred ninety and no/100). A quote from Herring Heating and Air Conditioning was received for a three-ton Trane AC unit for $14,600 (fourteen thousand six hundred and no/100). Chief Jared Hall and Street Department Supervisor met with these companies and in their opinion the best option is the unit from Freedom Heating and Cooling. Randy Spears made a motion to approve the quote from Freedom Heating and Cooling for $15,813 (fifteen thousand eight hundred thirteen and no/100). Norman Holt made the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #16-Public Comment- Andra Crawford-Griffin related she is a candidate for Walker
      County Coroner and Greg Barnes is a candidate for State House 13. They both spoke about their personal history and goals for Walker County.


      Item #17-Adjourn- Randy Spears made the motion to adjourn the meeting. Chris Edwards
      seconded the motion. All in favor and the meeting was adjourned.

      Council Minutes – 7/10/25

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

      July 10, 2025

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


      Item #5—Approval of the Minutes – The minutes of the June 26, 2025 regular meeting minutes were reviewed. A motion was made by Norman Holt to accept the minutes as written. The motion was seconded by David Box. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #6— Departmental Reports A-F- Gary Thomas made a motion to approve the
      departmental reports A-F. Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion
      carried.

      Item #7 – Bill List – A motion was made by Norman Holt to approve the bill list dated July 9, 2025. Motion was seconded by Gary Thomas. All in favor and the motion carried.

      Item #8-Old Business- Storm Shelter Rules-George Sides made a motion to approve the storm shelter rules and instructions as written. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion passed. It was discussed that the police department may be the best option to open the shelter in the event of a weather emergency since they are staffed 24/7. There was also a discussion about a volunteer within the city being a key-holder to open it and to advertise the need for a volunteer within the community. There was also a discussion about obtaining an electronic door lock to automatically lock and unlock the shelter door.


      Item #9-Storm Shelter Concrete parking quote- Norman Holt made a motion to approve
      pouring a concrete parking area at the storm shelter 80×40 side and 20×14 front in the amount of $15,500.50 (fifteen thousand five hundred and 50/100) from Clean Slate Services. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #10- Fire Department Requests-

      • Fire Chief’s Conference-Robert Busby made a motion to approve Fire Chief Adrean Booth to attend the Fire Chief’s Conference at Perdido Beach August 3-6 in the amount of $1,325 (one thousand three hundred twenty-five & no/100). Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.
      • Rescue Truck Purchase/Funding options-Fire Chief Booth presented the information from First Government Lease Company to finance a total of $423,000 (four hundred twenty-three thousand and no/100) on a ten-year term with an annual payment of $68,737 (sixty-eight thousand seven hundred thirty- seven & no/100). This quote includes the purchase of sixteen air packs for a total cost of $163,695 (one hundred sixty-three thousand three hundred ninety-five and no/100) and a rescue truck for $262,250 (two hundred sixty-two thousand two hundred fifty and no/100).


      George Sides made a motion to purchase eight air packs for $81,847.50 (eighty-one
      thousand eight hundred forty-seven and 50/100). Robert Busby made a motion to approve
      the purchase of the rescue truck in the amount of $266,250 (two hundred sixty-six
      thousand two hundred fifty and no/100). David Box seconded the motion. There was a
      discussion about getting additional quotes from different lenders. Robert Busby withdrew
      his motion. Norman Holt made a motion to table the item until further quotes can be
      obtained for this purchase. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and the item
      was tabled.


      Item #11- PTO Policy- Mayor Walker related Officer Barry Elam’s son was hospitalized with
      third degree burns and he has used all his PTO (paid time off) to be with his son and he is in need of more paid time off to be able to care for his son during this period of time. Officer Harold Cox has turned in his resignation and has offered to donate his PTO to Officer Elam. The donation of an employee’s PTO to another employee is not addressed in the city’s PTO policy. David Box made the motion to allow Officer Harold Cox to donate his balance of 104.62 hours of PTO to Officer Barry Elam and amend the PTO policy to allow the donation of PTO time to another employee to happen in the future. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. Mayor Walker suggested this be handled in two separate motions (one motion to address the PTO policy and one motion to address Officer Cox’s PTO donation to Officer Elam). George Sides suggested paying Officer Elam four weeks of pay and addressing the policy if this situation ever occurred again in the future. Mayor Walker repeated the motion to allow Officer Harold Cox to be allowed to donate his 104.62 PTO hours to Officer Barry Elam. George Sides voted NO to this motion because he would like to pay Officer Elam four weeks PTO. The motion carried.


      Item #12-Public Comment-Jessica Mashburn made several comments regarding the opening of the storm shelter to include implementing an inclement weather policy, considering paying someone to open the shelter and to monitor it and suggested the street department be responsible for cleaning of the shelter after it is used. She also suggested an extended illness bank or supplemental short-term disability policies for the employees to assist in emergencies when there is no longer available PTO.


      Item #13-Adjourn- Robert Busby made the motion to adjourn the meeting. Norman Holt
      seconded the motion. All in favor and the meeting was adjourned.

      Council Minutes – 6/26/25

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

      June 26, 2025

      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 Norman Holt. Mayor Hezikiah L. 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 David Box, Norman Holt, Chris Edwards, George Sides, Jr., Gary Thomas, Robert Busby and Mayor Walker. Randy Spears was absent. A quorum was in attendance.


      Item #5—Approval of the Minutes – The minutes of the June 12, 2025 regular session meeting minutes were reviewed. A motion was made by Chris Edwards to accept the minutes as written. The motion was seconded by Gary Thomas. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #6— Bill List – A motion was made by Norman Holt to approve the bill list dated June 24, 2025. Motion was seconded by Robert Busby. All in favor and the motion carried.

      Item #7-Old Business: City of Lights Contract- Mayor Walker related the day and times for the summer youth program were going to be changed from Thursday 5-9 p.m. and Sunday 6-9 p.m. Tree Removal at Fire Department-Mayor Walker related the quote for taking down the tree at the fire department did not include removal of the tree. Chris Edwards made a motion to approve the additional $400 tree removal by Jackson Tree Service for a total price of $1,450 (one thousand four hundred fifty and no/100). David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Walker County Sports Hall of Fame Ad-Mayor Walker related that the magazine had already been printed without being able to submit changes once they were contacted after the last council meeting. George Sides made a motion to pay for the ad. David Box seconded the motion. Norman Holt-NO; Mayor Walker-NO. YES-5. NO-2. The motion passed.


      Sharon Blvd/Railroad Avenue Grant Update- Kelly Bibb from ADEM contacted Mayor
      Walker and related that ADEM did not receive as much grant money as originally predicted due to budget cuts. ADEM offered to finance the cost of the project $458,647 (four hundred fifty-eight thousand six hundred forty-seven and no/100) at 2.5% interest for a 20-year term. George Sides made a motion to table the item due to lack of information. Chris Edwards seconded the motion. All in favor and the item was tabled.


      Storm Shelter-Chris Edwards stated the Fire Marshall inspected and approved the storm shelter. He stated he would contact Regina Myers, the EMA director.


      Item #8-Capstone Health-George Ivey, Outreach Coordinator, Tammy Ray, Supervisor and
      Mrs. Amber, Director of Operations, at Capstone Clinic related their clinic has served 531 (five hundred thirty-one) members of our community and 348 (three hundred forty-eight) of those residents had no health insurance. Norman Holt made a motion to donate $500 (five hundred and no/100) for the Back 2 School Health Fair to be held on July 25 from 9-11 a.m. at the Old Parrish High School. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #9-Ordinance #17-2025- Property Annexation of Dessie Parker c/o Dorothy Doaty
      5106 Sharon Boulevard-Second Reading- The ordinance has been posted for the required
      number of days and public comment can be heard at this time. None was made. Chris Edwards made a motion to accept Ordinance #17-2025-Property annexation of Dessie Parker c/o Dorothy Doaty. David Box seconded the motion. ROLL CALL VOTE: Gary Thomas-YES; Robert Busby-YES; Mayor Walker-YES; David Box-YES; Norman Holt-YES; Chris Edwards-YES;
      George Sides-YES. YES=7. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #10-Fire Department Rescue Unit and Radio System- Chief Booth related she is
      awaiting a final bid sheet for the engineering of the new rescue unit and the cost estimate ranges from $300,000 (three hundred thousand and no/100-$475,000 (four hundred seventy-five thousand and no/100). She related financing is an option through Government Leasing with a 6.5% interest rate for a ten-year loan. The interest rate could be lower if the city provided two years of financial statements. The payment would be due one-time per year (approximately $60,000 (sixty thousand and no/100-65,000 (sixty-five thousand) per year for ten years. Gary Thomas made a motion to table the item until further information is received). David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the item was tabled.

      Item #11-Resolution #7-2025-Appointment of Election Manager- Chris Edwards made a
      motion to approve Resolution #7-2025-Appointment of City Clerk as the Election Manager in
      the 2025 Municipal Election. Robert Busby seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion
      carried.


      Item #12-Retirement Systems of Alabama- Missing Service Credit-Mayor Walker related
      that due to an administrative error in 2008, employee and employer’s retirement contributions were not made to the Retirement Systems of Alabama for a two-month period of time. There are four current employees that this affects (Gary Aaron, Anthony Cordell, Dessie Robinson and Keith Wright). The missing service credit due for Keith Wright’s is $1,715.90 (one thousand seven hundred fifteen and 90/100). Chris Edwards made a motion to pay the Retirement Systems of Alabama $1,715.90 (one thousand seven hundred fifteen and 90/100) for this missing service credit for Keith Wright. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #13- Radio Tower Road-AL Power letter- Chris Edwards related there are only four
      power meters on Radio Tower Road and during times of power outages, this road will be one of the last areas for service to be restored. George Sides made a motion to prepare a letter to AL Power to ask for this area to be marked as critical infrastructure and for the service to be restored as soon as possible due to the fire and police department’s radio systems and the water service. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #15-Public Comment-Mayor Walker related City of Lights sent a thank you note to the
      council for sponsoring the 5K run. He stated that the magistrate, Merinda Pugh’s father passed away last week and the street department supervisor, Jeremy Hick’s mother-in-law passed away today. He stated the last day of the junior fire college was today and it was a successful event.


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

      Council Minutes – 6/12/25

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

      June 12, 2025

      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. Mayor Hezikiah L. 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 David Box, Chris Edwards, George Sides, Jr., Randy Spears, Gary Thomas, Robert Busby and Mayor Walker. Norman Holt was absent. A quorum was in attendance.


      Item #5—Approval of the Minutes – The minutes of the May 22, 2025 regular meeting minutes were reviewed. A motion was made by Gary Thomas to accept the minutes as written. The motion was seconded by David Box. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #6— Departmental Reports A-F- Gary Thomas made a motion to approve the
      departmental reports A-F. Chris Edwards seconded the motion. The motion was seconded by
      Gary Thomas. Mayor Walker related there was not a hiring freeze in place within the city at this time as stated in the Fire Chief’s Report. He also related that the agenda items listed on the Fire Chief Report were not added to the agenda for this council meeting but were discussed with the Fire Chief and will most likely need to be addressed in a work session. Chris Edwards made a motion to remove his second from the approval of the departmental reports.

      Gary Thomas made a motion to remove his motion to approve the departmental reports A-F. The motion to approve the Departmental Reports A-F was rescinded Robert Busby made a motion to approve Item A as written-City Clerk Report. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Randy Spears made a motion to approve the Fire Department Report without the agenda items that were included on the report. George Sides seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

      Randy Spears made a motion to approve the remaining departmental reports C-F as written.
      George Sides seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried. David Box had to leave the meeting at this time.

      Item #7-Bill List-Robert Busby made a motion to approve the bill list dated June 10, 2025.
      Randy Spears seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #8-Old Business-Brush Truck-The brush truck that was donated to the City of Dora from the City of Jasper had to be towed to the city and we are awaiting a mobile mechanic to come evaluate what repairs are needed to put the brush truck in service.


      Item #9-Resolution #6-2025- Resolution to Establish the Use of Electronic Vote Counting
      Devices-
      Chris Edwards made a motion to approve Resolution #6-2025-A Resolution to Establish the Use of Electronic Vote Counting Devices. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried. This is to update the type of machines which will be used in the upcoming election.


      Item #10- Ordinance #17-2025-Property Annexation of Dessie Parker c/o Dorothy Doaty-
      (5106 Sharon Boulevard) -First Reading- Ordinance #17-2025 was presented for the first
      reading. The petition for annexation and a map of said property was presented. The ordinance will be posted and published as required by law.


      Item #11- City of Lights Contract- Mayor Walker spoke with the City of Lights about the use
      of their gym for a summer youth program to be led by Mr. Willy Doaty. The cost would be
      $1,000 (one thousand and no/100) per month for June and July for their facility to be used on
      Thursday from 5-9 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Chris Edwards made a motion to
      approve the contract with the City of Lights for the use of their gym for the summer youth
      program. George Sides seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #12-Golf Course Request- Keith Wright related that he needs to purchase three loads of sod (27,000 square feet of Bermuda sod) to apply in the areas where trees were cut last year, tee boxes and also to finish bunkers. The total cost to be delivered and installed is $21,825 (twenty-one thousand eight hundred twenty-five and no/100). Jackson Tree Service will install it for $10,800 (ten thousand eight hundred and no/100) and the sod will come from Coosa Valley Sod Farm for $11,025 (eleven thousand twenty-five and no/100). Robert Busby seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #13- Tree Removal-Fire Department- Randy Spears made a motion to approve the quote
      from Jackson Tree Service to take down the tree and grind three stumps that are located behind city hall at the fire department for a total cost of $1,050 (one thousand fifty and no/100). Gary Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #14-Walker County Sports Hall of Fame Ad- Chris Edwards made a motion to approve
      the ½ page ad for the City of Dora for $500 (five hundred and no/100) and for Horse Creek Golf Course for $500 (five hundred and no/100). Randy Spears seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried. The ads will be updated before submitted and printed.


      Item #15-Public Comment-Jessica Mashburn related her support of the summer youth program but wanted to remind that the youth participating in this program will be checked before entering the City of Lights facility and they will not be allowed to bring any drugs or alcohol on to the site due to the nature of the women in the treatment program at this facility. Mr. Doaty related the participants will be checked before entering the facility and will be made aware of this rule.


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

      Council Minutes – 5/22/25

      Regular Session Minutes of the
      Council of the City of Dora, Alabama
      May 22, 2025

      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. Mayor Walker 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 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 May 8, 2025 regular session meeting minutes were reviewed. A motion was made by Chris Edwards to accept the minutes as written. The motion was seconded by Gary Thomas. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #6— Bill List – A motion was made by Norman Holt to approve the bill list dated May 21, 2025. The motion was seconded by Robert Busby. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #7-Old Business: Walking Trail Trees- Chris Edwards made a motion to contact the city attorney, Jim Brakefield, and advise him to move forward with legal action regarding the lumber company that cut the trees on the city’s right of way on the walking trail. Randy Spears seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

      Consulting Agreement-Chris Edwards made a motion to enter into the monthly agreement with consultant Allan Rice for $2,000 (two thousand and no/100) per month pending attorney approval of the language used in the document. Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

      Fire Hydrants-A packet was reviewed from Dora Utilities regarding the status of the hydrants in the city that need to be repaired or replaced. The packet also included a proposal for a policy between the City of Dora and its street department, Dora Utilities and Dora Fire and Rescue, regarding responsibilities to maintain the hydrants moving forward. The estimated cost to repair and replace all the hydrants in the city is $125,000 (one hundred twenty-five thousand and no/100) per year over a five-year period and the utility board is asking the City of Dora to share this cost. George Sides made a motion to pay Dora Utilities $62,500 (sixty-two thousand five hundred and no/100) to replace the first twenty hydrants and once that project is completed, come back to the city for an update and discussion about future payments to continue the project. Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

      Street Department: Brush Truck and Man Lift-Mayor Walker related that the City of Jasper declared the 2008 Freightliner brush truck surplus and donated the truck to the City of Dora at no cost. The paperwork was received from them, and it will be picked up soon. A man lift was purchased for the street department from ADECA for $7,500 (seven thousand five hundred and no/100) and the lift was transported to the street department by a wrecker for $350 (three hundred fifty and no/100).

      Park Director-The job posting for the park director was reviewed and will be posted.
      Dora High School Traffic Flow Meeting-Norman Holt related that he, Mayor Walker, George Sides and Chief Hall met with Paige Abner the principal at Dora High School and Dennis Willingham, Walker County School Superintendent and discussed a traffic plan during the construction of the new high school. A memorandum of agreement (MOA) will be prepared to give Dora Police Department authority to patrol the area and issue citations if needed during this construction phase with the traffic problems in the area.


      Item #8-Freddy Wynn-847 Sharon Blvd-Mr. Wynn related he is concerned about the high school traffic crossing Highway 78 heading west specifically the median of Hwy78 at Hillside Church pulling onto the highway as it is difficult to see over the hill that direction and the amount of traffic that does this at peak school hours. He relates he has written a letter to Dennis Willingham and Governor Ivy requesting this area be turned into a school zone. Mayor Walker related the city would contact ALDOT to determine if this is an option since it is a state highway. Mr. Wynn also related that due to the sidewalk and drain on the city’s right of way which does not drain properly, his driveway floods and has washed out and asked the city to help replace his driveway. Mayor Walker related he would have the street department supervisor go look at the area and see what the issue is and if the city has any responsibility for the problem.


      Item #9- Fire Department Internet Network Bridge Estimate- Chief Booth related the constant problems they have been having with the internet service at the fire department. Brandon Carter has made multiple attempts to fix the issue along with Spectrum with no permanent solution. Chris Edwards made a motion to approve the estimate from Carter’s Sound Solution for $3,612.48 (three thousand six hundred twelve and 48/100) which includes the network bridge, wi-fi to fire truck garage and a tv for fire chief’s office for weather. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #10-Ordinance #16-2025- Property Annexation of Michael Smoot-Second Reading- The ordinance has been posted for the required number of days and public comment can be heard at this time. None was made. Randy Spears made a motion to accept Ordinance #16-2025-Property annexation of Michael Smoot. Robert Busby seconded the motion. ROLL CALL VOTE: Randy Spears-YES; Gary Thomas-YES; Robert Busby-YES; Mayor Walker-YES; David Box-YES; Norman Holt-YES; Chris Edwards-YES; George Sides-YES. YES=8. All in favor and the motion carried.

      Item #11- Resolution #5-2025- Back To School Sales Tax Holiday- Chris Edwards made a motion to approve


      Resolution #5-2025 a resolution approving the City of Dora’s participation in the State of Alabama’s sales tax holiday July 18, 2025, through July 20, 2025. Robert Busby seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #12-Landfill Update-Mayor Walker related that Pineview Landfill will close June 28, 2025. He relates that Walker County has joined Big Sky for landfill services. Our current rate for the city to dump at Pineview is one dollar per ton and will be twenty-nine dollars per ton at Big Sky.


      Item #13-High School Summer Training Program and Internship-Mayor Walker relates Akima Garner is a junior at Washington University St. Louis majoring in finance with a minor in business. She will be participating in an unpaid internship here with the Mayor and City Clerk during the month of June. Chris Edwards made a motion to allow Akima Garner to be an intern for the City of Dora in June. Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


      George Sides made a motion to partner with Phoenix Jet, which will pay three high school students from Dora High School $10/hour (ten dollars per hour) to work for the city in a six-week training program for students with disabilities. The parents will provide their transportation, and the company will provide liability coverage for the students. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #14- Notice of Election- The notice of election for the City of Dora was read by Mayor Walker. This is for the local election for mayor and seven city council places. The election date is Tuesday, August 26, 2025 at Dora Civic Center from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Qualifying begins Tuesday, June 10, 2025 at 8 a.m. and qualifying ends on Tuesday, June 24, 2025 at 5 p.m. Qualifying fees for the mayor is $50 (fifty and no/100) and council seats is $25 (twenty-five and no/100).


      Item #15-Public Comment-None.


      Item #16-Adjourn- Mayor Walker related a work session will be on June 5, 2025. Norman Holt made the motion to adjourn the meeting. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the meeting was adjourned.

      Council Minutes – 5/8/25

      Regular Session Minutes of the
      Council of the City of Dora, Alabama
      May 8, 2025

      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. Mayor Hezikiah L. 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, Chris Edwards, George Sides, Jr., Randy Spears, Gary Thomas, Robert Busby and Mayor Walker. David Box was absent. A quorum was in attendance.


      Mayor Walker related he needed to add three items of business to the end of the agenda that just developed yesterday.


      Item #5—Approval of the Minutes – The minutes of the April 24, 2025 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— Departmental Reports A-F- Norman Holt made a motion to approve the departmental reports A-F.

      Randy Spears seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #7 – Bill List – A motion was made by Norman Holt to approve the bill list dated May 7, 2025. Motion was seconded by Gary Thomas. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #8-Old Business- Wrecker Service-Mayor Walker related that he and Chief Hall decided this item needs to be discussed in a work session at a future date.


      Walking Trail Trees-Randy Spears related when he met with the arborist there were 48 (forty-eight) trees that had been removed from our right-of-way, some of them as old as 40-50 (forty to fifty) years old. Norman Holt made a motion to send the city attorney the estimate from the arborist regarding the repair of the walking trail and the trees that were cut down and discuss pursuing legal action. Chris Edwards seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Park Director- Norman Holt encouraged the council to help in the search to find a new director and to consider a director for each sport instead of one director for all the sports offered.


      Storm Shelter-A list of storm shelter rules was submitted for the council to review and decide if the city wants to adopt these rules and/or make changes.


      Medical Clinic-
      George Sides made a motion to put a “for rent” sign on the medical clinic for a period of ninety (90) days before seeking a realtor to advertise the building and to ask $2,000 (two thousand and no/100) dollars per month for rent and the City would be responsible for HVAC system. Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried. It was also recommended to contact David Knight of the Walker County Development Authority and the Capstone Clinic regarding the building.

      Chris Edwards related the ordinances approved at the last meeting needed to be voted on individually.


      Chris Edwards made a motion to approve Ordinance #10-2025-Property Annexation of Hosey Smoot and Tracy Smoot. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. ROLL CALL VOTE: Norman Holt-YES; Chris Edwards-YES; George Sides-YES; Randy Spears-YES; Gary Thomas-YES; Robert Busby-YES; Mayor Walker-YES. YES=7. All in favor and the motion carried. Chris Edwards made a motion to approve Ordinance #11-2025-Property Annexation of Roy and Shirley Penick.


      Robert Busby seconded the motion. ROLL CALL VOTE: Chris Edwards-YES; George Sides-YES; Randy Spears- YES; Gary Thomas-YES; Robert Busby-YES; Mayor Walker-YES; Norman Holt-YES. YES=7. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Randy Spears made a motion to approve Ordinance #12-2025-Property Annexation of Belinda Lyons and Terry Speigner. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. ROLL CALL VOTE: George Sides-YES; Randy Spears-YES; Gary Thomas-YES; Robert Busby-YES; Mayor Walker-YES; Norman Holt-YES; Chris Edwards-YES. YES=7. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Robert Busby made a motion to approve Ordinance #13-2025-Property Annexation of Belinda Lyons and Terry Speigner. Chris Edwards seconded the motion. ROLL CALL VOTE: Randy Spears-YES; Gary Thomas-YES; Robert Busby-YES; Mayor Walker-YES; Norman Holt-YES; Chris Edwards-YES; George Sides-YES. YES=7. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Chris Edwards made a motion to approve Ordinance #14-2025-Property Annexation of Faishon Parker and Jaicyrus Parrish. Robert Busby seconded the motion. ROLL CALL VOTE: Norman Holt-YES; Chris Edwards-YES; George Sides-YES; Randy Spears-YES; Gary Thomas-YES; Robert Busby-YES; Mayor Walker-YES. YES=7. All in favor and the motion carried.

      Chris Edwards made a motion to approve Ordinance #15-2025-Property Annexation of Bretford Griffin. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. ROLL CALL VOTE: Randy Spears-YES; Gary Thomas-YES; Robert Busby-YES; Mayor Walker-YES; Norman Holt-YES; Chris Edwards-YES; George Sides-YES. YES=7. All in favor and the motion carried.

      Item #9-Resolution #4-2025- Chris Edwards made a motion to approve Resolution #4-2025-A Resolution Designating an Official Representative to provide information to ADEM pertaining to the application of a CWSRF loan from the AL Water Pollution Control Authority. Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried. This is in reference to the Railroad Avenue/Sharon Boulevard road repair.


      Item #10- Ordinance #16-2025-Property Annexation of Michael Smoot- (60 Matthews Street) -First Reading – Ordinance #16-2025 was presented for the first reading. The petition for annexation and a map of said property was presented. The ordinance will be posted and published as required by law.


      Item #11- Magistrate Conference- Norman Holt made a motion to approve Merinda Pugh to attend the magistrate conference September 24-27, 2025 for a total of $1,295 (one thousand two hundred ninety-five and no/100). Chris Edwards seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #12-Golf Course Request- Norman Holt made a motion to pay Jackson Tree Service $4,500 (four thousand five hundred and no/100) to grind 18 (eighteen stumps) at Horse Creek Golf Course. Randy Spears seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #13- Police Chief Conference- Robert Busby made a motion to approve Chief Hall to attend the AACOP Summer Conference August 3-7, 2025 for a total of $1,860.96 (one thousand eight hundred sixty and 96/100). Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #14-Economic Development Consulting- Allan Rice presented two consulting agreements for the council to review to decide which agreement would be the best fit for the City and the goals. The agreements will be forwarded to the City Attorney Jim Brakefield for review.


      Item #15- Brush Truck- Mayor Walker related that the City of Jasper purchased new brush trucks and have plans to declare this brush truck a surplus vehicle and possibly donating one of the trucks to the City of Dora. It is a 2003 Freightliner that has been sitting on their lot for the past eighteen months. George Sides made a motion to accept the vehicle if offered to the City. Norman Hold seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #16- Boom Lift- Mayor Walker related Jeremy Hicks, Street Department Supervisor has located a 1997 fifty-foot electric boom lift that the street department will be able to use for various projects in the city. Chris Edwards made a motion to purchase the boom lift for $7,500 (seven thousand five hundred and no/100). George Sides seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #17- Jackson Tree Service- George Sides made a motion to pay Jackson Tree Service $1,300 (one thousand three hundred and no/100) to remove a large tree on the right-of-way on Nail Road. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


      Item #18-Public Comment- None


      Item #16-Adjourn- Randy Spears made the motion to adjourn the meeting. Chris Edwards

      seconded the motion.

      All in favor and the meeting was adjourned.