Council Minutes – 11/16/23

Regular Session Minutes of the
Council of the City of Dora, Alabama
November 16, 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, Chris Edwards, George Sides, Jr., Randy Spears,


Gary Thomsas and Hezikiah Walker, Jr. Mayor Stephens was absent. A quorum was in
attendance.


Item #5-Approval of Minutes-The minutes of the October 26, 2023 council meeting were
reviewed. A motion was made by Hezikiah Walker, Jr. to accept the minutes as written. The
motion was seconded by Chris Edwards. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #6-Old Business- Walking Trail Highway 78 Light-David Box made a motion to approve adding a light for the parking lot at the entrance of the Horse Creek Walking Trail on Highway 78 near the Marathon Gas Station. Randy Spears seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried. New Construction behind Hole Two at Horse Creek Golf Course-A letter was received from Jim Brakefield regarding his opinion regarding the golf course being liable for golf balls causing injury to the construction workers or homeowners or damage to the home itself. A discussion was held about this letter and Jim Brakefield’s findings. There will be no changes made to the tee box on hole two at this time.


Item #7-Bill List-George Sides, Jr. made a motion to approve the bill list dated November 8,
2023 and November 15, 2023. Randy Spears seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #8-Departmental Reports: Randy Spears made a motion to approve Departmental
Reports A-H. George Sides, Jr. seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion passed.

Item #9-Police Department Take Home Vehicle Coverage Area- Chris Edwards made a
motion to increase the coverage area that police officers are allowed to take their patrol vehicle home to twenty-five miles. It is currently a fifteen-mile limit. Randy Spears seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #10-Police Department Vehicle-Chief Hall presented a quote from Donohoo Chevrolet
for a 2024 Chevrolet Tahoe 2WD PPV for the police department for $49,375.00 (forty-nine
thousand three hundred seventy-five and no/100). He presented the current police department vehicle inventory which includes a 2015 Dodge Charger with current mileage of 130,000 and a 2014 Dodge Charger with 170,000 miles and additional repairs needing to be performed on this vehicle. The 2024 Tahoe would be paid for out of the court fund but may not be available for up to one year but we can reserve this unit. Chevrolet vehicles are no longer on the state bid. This item was tabled until further bids can be received.


Item #11-Full Time Custodian-George Sides, Jr. made a motion to change the custodian
position from a part-time to a full-time position. This will allow for accrual of paid time off and holiday pay. The custodian will be required to work at least 32 hours weekly to be considered full-time for this position. There is no offer of health insurance coverage and uniforms will be paid for by the City. Chris Edwards seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #12-Street Department Vehicle- The street department only has two vehicles at the
moment, the street department supervisor’s vehicle which is a 2019 Chevrolet Silverado and a 2012 Chevrolet Silverado so there are currently five employees having to share the vehicles. A government bid from Carl Cannon Chevrolet for a vehicle for the street department supervisor for a 2023 double cab GMC 4×4 for $44,532 (forty-four thousand five hundred thirty-two and no/100) plus title fee of $16.50 (sixteen and 50/100) and any applicable taxes was reviewed.

George Sides, Jr. made a motion to approve the purchase price of a vehicle up to this price of
$44,532 (forty-four thousand five hundred thirty-two and no/100) if that price matches the state bid list price of a truck. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #13-Horse Creek Rate Increase- Don Cummings discussed the current daily rates at the
golf course as well as the rates at the driving range. George Sides, Jr. made a motion to increase cost of range baskets effective December 1, 2023 to $5 (five dollars and no/100), $7 (seven dollars and no/100), $9 (nine dollars and no/100) which is a $2 (two dollars and no/100) increase per basket size of range balls. We will consider increasing the daily rates in the spring and will revisit the subject at that time. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion passed.


Item #14-Employee One Time Lump Sum Merit Increase- Chris Edwards made a motion to
approve a one time lump sum merit increase of $1,076.50 (one thousand seventy six and 50/100) for each full time employee and $538.25 (five hundred thirty eight and 25/100) for each eligible part time employee to be funded by the Horse Creek Golf Course Account for a total of $35,524.50 (thirty-five thousand five hundred twenty four and 50/100). David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #15-Government Email Addresses-Randy Spears made a motion to purchase Microsoft
government email addresses for the City of Dora which will cost $5.43 (five and 43/100) per
user per month. These government email addresses are more secure than the current email
addresses being used. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion passed.
Item #16-Park Department Request-Chris Edwards made a motion for the park fund to be
used to purchase the basketball jerseys for the children who have registered to play basketball for $50 each per player which will cost approximately $1,500 (one thousand five hundred and no/100). George Sides, Jr. seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #17-Horse Creek Golf Course Website-There was a discussion regarding the status of
Horse Creek Golf Course’s website (horsecreekgolf.com). We are unable to gain access to the
website to be able to edit it due to not having any of the password information when Rick
Watson passed away so as a result the website is outdated with incorrect rate information. There was a discussion about various solutions to this problem.

Chris Edwards made the motion to adjourn the meeting. Randy Spears seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Council Minutes – 10/26/23

Regular Session Minutes of the
Council of the City of Dora, Alabama
October 26, 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 Pro-Tem Norman Holt. 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. Mayor Stephens was absent. A quorum
was in attendance.


Item#5- Approval of Minutes- The minutes of the October 12, 2023 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 – Brush Pickup Update-Norman Holt related that Brian’s Tree Removal has been able to pick up all work orders given during the month with the exception of one month. Norman Holt said he would speak with him regarding picking up orders twice a month. Walker County Animal Shelter Update-Randy Spears spoke to Steven Aderholt regarding the Walker County Animal Shelter. The shelter has recently signed a contract with an outside agency to take over the animal shelter. At this time, there are no local animal shelters where animals can be taken to enforce our canine control ordinance.

Council Chambers Furniture Options-Stacy Turner presented options for new conference
room tables and lectern options. At this time, it was decided to replace the tablecloths on the existing tables. Don Cummings related he had a lectern in the conference room at the golf course that is not used that we could use before we decide which style to purchase.

Christmas Lighting Update-The estimates for the Christmas lighting and Christmas tree were reviewed and the quotes are over the approved $8,000 (eight thousand and no/100) budget because the estimates do not include labor and lift rental. An estimate will be provided for the cost of hanging the banners at a later date.

Item #7— Bill List – A motion was made by Randy Spears to approve the bill lists dated
October 24, 2023. Motion was seconded by Chris Edwards. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #8 –Dora Diamond Club Sign–Randy Spears made a motion to renew our sign for the
Dora High School Diamond Club for $150 (one hundred fifty and no/100). Motion was seconded by Gary Thomas. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #9-November and December Council Meetings- Chris Edwards made a motion to have
one council meeting in the month of November on Thursday, November 16 due to the
Thanksgiving Holidays. In the month of December, the meeting dates would be moved to the
first and third Thursday of the month on Thursday December 7 and December 21 due to East
Walker Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade and the Christmas Holidays. Gary Thomas
seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #10 – 628 Sharon Blvd Rental Property- A discussion was had regarding a rental property that has been vacated and the property management company has cleaned out the contents of the house and left all the household items including clothing and furniture by the roadside. Chief Hall has spoken to the property management company and told them a citation would be issued if the trash was not picked up by Monday October 30, 2023. If the trash has not been picked up by Monday October 30, 2023, the citation will be issued that day and then the street department will pick it all up if not picked up by Friday November 3, 2023.

Item #11-Glover Road Closure- Chris Edwards made a motion for the City to purchase the pipe needed to repair Glover Road and accept Tommy Freeman’s quote for repairs for $19,650 (nineteen thousand six hundred fifty and no/100). There will also be a charge for limestone that is $950 (nine hundred fifty and no/100) per load and Rip Rap Class II $1,100 (one thousand one hundred) per load. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #12-Horse Creek Golf Course-New House Construction- Don Cummings relates there is
a new home being built on the golf course beside Hole #2 and he is concerned about liability issues with golf balls hitting the house. Don Cummings discussed changing the hole to a par four that would alleviate any issues in this area because a net would not eliminate the potential for issues. Randy Spears suggested we contact the City Attorney Jim Brakefield regarding who would be liable if the construction workers, homeowners and/or home gets hit with golf balls.


Item #13-Mayor Stephens Letter of Resignation-Chris Edwards made a motion to accept
Mayor Randy Stephens letter of resignation effective November 30, 2023. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried. Norman Holt and Hezikiah Walker, Jr. expressed an interest in serving as Mayor for the duration of the current term. A discussion was held regarding the details of electing a new Mayor and a new Council member.

Item #14-Adjourn-Chris Edwards made a motion to adjourn the meeting. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and meeting was adjourned.

Council Minutes – 10/12/23

Regular Session Minutes of the
Council of the City of Dora, Alabama
October 12, 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 Hezikiah Walker, Jr. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mayor
Stephens.


The meeting was called to order by Mayor Randy Stephens. Roll call was taken by Stacy Turner.


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


Item #5 – Approval of Minutes – The minutes of the September 28, 2023 council meeting were reviewed. A motion was made by Hezikiah Walker, Jr. to accept the minutes as written. The motion was seconded by Chris Edwards. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #6 – Old Business – Brush Pickup Update-Item was tabled due to Norman Holt’s absence and his information regarding the update.

Animal Shelter Update – Item was tabled due to Randy Spears’ absence and his information regarding this topic.

Fire Department Carport Update – Chief Booth related the wind rating on the building is 70
(seventy) mph and TN Steel Buildings does follow the international building code. The item was tabled due to Randy Spears’ absence and to confirm all the questions were adequately answered before the item was voted on by the Council. Chris Edwards made a motion to table the old business. Hezikiah Walker, Jr. seconded the motion. All in favor and the old business was tabled.

Item #7 – Bill List – George Sides, Jr. made a motion to approve the bill list dated October 10,

David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #8 – Departmental Reports: George Sides, Jr. made a motion to approve Departmental
Reports A-G. Hezikiah Walker, Jr. and Mayor Stephens discussed the use of City of Lights gym for basketball practice and it was decided to wait and make sure there were enough children to register before the reservations were made for the use of the gym. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion passed.

Item #9 – Medical Clinic – Mayor Stephens related that Dora Utilities was interested in the past in purchasing/leasing the medical clinic and they have purchased property for their future office and we should decide to sell or lease the medical clinic building. He presented copies of the appraisal from 2017 with an assessed value of $580,100 (five hundred eighty thousand one hundred and no/100) with a reconciled value of $270,000 (two hundred seventy thousand and no/100) for the 4,450 (four thousand four hundred fifty) square foot building. Mayor Stephens suggested placing the building on the market with a commercial real estate agent for a list price of $289,000 (two hundred eighty-nine thousand and no/100) or consider leasing the building for $2,500 (two thousand five hundred and no/100) per month. Chris Edwards made a motion to table the item until Item #10-Dora Utilities is heard by the Council. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the item was tabled.

Item #10 – Dora Utilities – Nick Isbell presented a request from Dora Utilities to enter into a lease agreement (with option to purchase) the medical clinic. The details of the lease agreement presented included a twelve-month lease agreement with the option of two six-month extensions, $2,000 (two thousand and no/100) per month rent and they will assume all repairs and upkeep on the building while they are leasing it, and they would like to be able to take possession of the building by November 15, 2023. The option to purchase details are as follows-all the funds collected during the leasing term would go towards the purchase price of $200,000 (two hundred thousand and no/100) minus the amount collected during the term of the lease. David Box made a motion to enter into a lease agreement of the medical clinic for twelve months with Dora Utilities for $2,500 (two thousand five hundred) per month. George Sides, Jr. seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote: David Box-Yes; Chris Edwards-Abstain; George Sides, Jr.-Yes;Hezikiah Walker, Jr.-Yes; Mayor Stephens-Yes. Yes-4; Abstain-1. The motion carried. Dora Utilities will discuss this with their Board and consider their options and notify the City Council of their decision.

Item #11 – Fire Department Request – Chief Booth presented her Fire Chief’s Report which
includes some requests. A quote was received by S.E.M.S to come and test the hose and ladders at the fire department. David Box made a motion to pay S.E.M.S. $3,901 (three thousand nine hundred one and no/100). Chris Edwards seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried. Chris Edwards made a motion to approve $800 (eight hundred dollars and no/100) for a uniform allowance for the Fire Chief for the first year of service and $600 (six hundred dollars and no/100) per year for the following years of service. Davis Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion passed.

The Fire Chief’s 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe has 170,000 (one hundred seventy thousand) miles and needs a major repair to the brake system totaling approximately $3,000 (three thousand and no/100). This item was tabled for Chief Booth to do some research on the purchase of a new/used take home vehicle.

Item #12 – Walker County Humane Society Spay/Neuter Program – The Walker County
Humane Society is hosting their 21 st Annual Pets on Parade sponsored by The Chamber of
Commerce of Walker County. David Box made a motion to make a $500 (five hundred and
no/100) donation to sponsor the spay/neuter program. Chris Edwards seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #13 – City of Lights Gala – Chris Edwards made a motion to purchase a table at the City of Lights Gala on November 20, 2023 at 6 p.m. for the City of Dora to attend for $175 (one
hundred seventy-five and no/100) and to also be a platinum corporate sponsor for the event for $1,500 (one thousand five hundred and no/100). David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion passed.

Item #14 – Lake Project Additive – George Sides, Jr. made a motion to approve the additional
work items to the lake improvement project (entrance road and grading) for $66,100 (sixty-six thousand one hundred sixty and no/100). David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried. Mayor Stephens submitted his letter of resignation to the City Clerk effective November 30, 2023 after eleven years of serving the City of Dora.

Chris Edwards made the motion to adjourn the meeting. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Council Minutes – 9/28/23

Regular Session Minutes of the
Council of the City of Dora, Alabama
September 28, 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 Pro-Tem Norman Holt. 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, Hezikiah Walker, Jr. Mayor Stephens was absent. A quorum was
in attendance.


Chief Jared Hall Recognition – Chief Hall has completed 240 hours of training in the Certified Law Enforcement Executive Program. He is the only current Police Chief in office with this status. Only 296 police officers in the State of Alabama have completed program since it began approximately twenty years ago.


Item#6 – Approval of Minutes – The minutes of the September 14, 2023 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 #7 – Old Business – Brush Pickup Update-A discussion was had regarding Brian’s Tree Removal and the monthly brush pickup service. Hezikiah Walker, Jr. mentioned that we may need to see if he would be willing to pick up brush twice per month for a period of time to catch up on any remaining pickup orders that he hasn’t been able to pick up during the previous months, so those pickup orders aren’t continuing to be delayed for another month so he can get caught up on all the brush pickup. Norman Holt said he would speak with him regarding this issue and the details of the agreement.


Walker County Animal Shelter Update – Stacy Turner related that Susie Vann, who used to run the county animal shelter for over thirty years, informed her that the City could approach our Walker County Commissioner Steven Aderholt about the possibility of partnering with the county shelter to help enforce the canine control ordinance. The local private animal shelter in Dora is full and there is no place to surrender an animal if necessary. Randy Spears related he would reach out to Steven Aderholt and determine what our options may be working with the county shelter.


Item #8 — Bill List – A motion was made by Randy Spears to approve the bill lists dated
September 28, 2023. Motion was seconded by Chris Edwards. All in favor and the motion
carried.


Item #9 – Fire Department Request – Trevor Edwards presented a custom order quote from TN Steel Buildings for a 26’x 30’x 12’ metal covered carport to house Engine 100 and the brush truck. The total cost of the structure is $6,195.57 (six thousand one hundred ninety-five and 57/100) plus the cost of telescopic lift. A motion was made by Randy Spears to table the item until a competitive quote is received and/or additional information is received about the wind rating and if this building follows national building code of Alabama. Motion was seconded by Gary Thomas. All in favor and the motion was tabled.
Item #10-Dora Bass Team Sponsorship- Randy Spears made a motion to support Dora High
School’s bass team blue level for a total of $300 (three hundred and no/100). Gary Thomas
seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion was carried.


Item #11 – Council Room Furniture – A discussion was had regarding the use of the State Capital Fund for some improvements to the council room. Some items that were discussed purchasing are a PA system, a podium for speakers during council meetings and possibly new tables. David Box made a motion to table the item. George Sides, Jr. seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion was tabled.


Item #12 – Horse Creek Walking Trail Parking Lot Flood Light – The parking lot at the main
entrance to the walking trail needs some type of lighting. Gary Thomas related he would gather some more information and present lighting options either solar lights that we purchase and install ourselves or lighting from Alabama Power. Randy Spears made a motion to table the item. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion was tabled.


Item #13 – Park Update/Requests – Chase Gant presented a report detailing park projects and updates about the upcoming basketball season that he is working on at this time. He needs to order five new basketballs for a total of $324.75 (three hundred twenty-four and 75/100). Randy Spears made a motion to approve the purchase of the new basketballs. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Chase also presented a quote for two canopy covers for the playground. The quote is for two
40×40 canopies which would be set with concrete into the ground. The canvas comes with a ten-year warranty. The cost for one canopy is $13,000 which does not include installation. Randy Spears made a motion to table this item until more information is gathered and possibly another quote from a different company. Hezikiah Walker, Jr. seconded the motion. All in favor and the item was tabled.

Chris Edwards made a motion to reinstate the park director’s monthly salary effective September 1, 2023. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #14 – Christmas Decoration Budget – Mrs. Karen Walker requested an increase in the
annual Christmas Budget for the City of Dora to $8,000 (eight thousand and no/100) this year. Chris Edwards made a motion to approve the $8,000 (eight thousand and no/100) Christmas Budget for this year. Randy Spears seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion was approved. Mrs. Walker also requested the City to pay for the boom lift rental to hang the banners that were purchased with last year’s budget. George Sides, Jr. recommended we get quotes on having the banners and decorations installed by Danny Jackson or Carter Sound Solutions. We will gather prices on installation and present those at a later date.

Item #15 – Golf Course Request – Don Cummings related that the septic tank field lines at the back of the clubhouse aren’t working properly and have collapsed. Don Cummings presented a quote for 250 feet of new field lines from Superior Septic Services, LLC for $10,731 (ten thousand seven hundred thirty-one and no/100) and a quote from Williams Septic Systems for $6,000 (six thousand and no/100). George Sides, Jr. made a motion to accept the lowest bid from Williams Septic Systems for $6,000 (six thousand and no/100). Randy Spears seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #16 – Adjourn – David Box made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and meeting was adjourned.

Council Minutes – 9/14/23

Regular Session Minutes of the
Council of the City of Dora, Alabama
September 14, 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 Randy Stephens. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mayor
Stephens.

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

Item #5-Approval of Minutes – The minutes of the August 31, 2023 council meeting were
reviewed. A motion was made by Hezikiah Walker, Jr. to accept the minutes as written. The
motion was seconded by Chris Edwards. All in favor and the motion carried.


David Box arrived at this time for the meeting.

Item #6-Old Business-

Interconnect Meter Site Option Agreement – Chris Edwards made a motion to approve the
interconnect meter site option agreement with Mid-South Engineering. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. A survey on the land will be performed before the easements are executed. All in favor and the motion carried.

Security Camera Quote:

Police Department – Randy Spears made a motion to approve the lowest bid received for the
security camera system for the police department from Carter Sound Solutions, LLC for
$8,349.48 (eight thousand three hundred forty-nine and 48/100 dollars). Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion passed.


Armory – Norman Holt made a motion to approve the lowest bid received for the security camera system from Scott’s Electrical Contracting for $4,159.25 (four thousand one hundred fifty-nine and 25/100). Randy Spears seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


Fire Department Vehicle – Trevor Edwards related that there are no Ford Explorer’s available to purchase from the state bid list and the Chevrolet Tahoe has an approximate two year wait list. Randy Spears made a motion to approve the quote received from Stivers Ford Lincoln for the 2023 Ford F150 Supercrew 4×4 Pickup State Contract T191 for $45,112 (forty-five thousand one hundred twelve and no/100). Gary Thomas seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote: Randy Spears- Yes; Gary Thomas-Yes; Hezikiah Walker, Jr.-Yes; Mayor Stephens-No; David Box-Yes; Norman Holt-Yes; Chris Edwards-Yes; George Sides, Jr.-Yes. Yes-7; No-1. The motion carried.


Walker County Crime Unit Investigator Salary – The City of Jasper, Walker County
Commission and District Attorney’s office will all be funding the salary for approximately three years of this new position for a major crime unit investigator for Walker County. Their estimated contribution amount is approximately $27,000 (twenty-seven thousand and no/100) each per year to pay his salary, insurance benefits, retirement and furnish his company vehicle. His estimated salary will be $60,000 (sixty thousand and no/100 dollars) per year. The City of Sumiton will donate $5,000 (five thousand and no/100) per year and Jasper Police Department is asking Dora to donate the same. Randy Spears made a motion to pay $5,000 (five thousand and no/100 dollars) per year for three years to be paid out of the court fund to support this investigator. Chris Edwards seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #7 – Bill List – A motion was made by George Sides, Jr. to approve the bill lists dated
September 12, 2023. Motion was seconded by Randy Spears. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #8 – Departmental Reports – A motion was made by David Box to approve the August 2023 departmental reports A-G. Randy Spears seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #9 – Horse Creek Golf Course General Obligation Warrant Payment – Chris Edwards
made a motion to pay off the bond on the club house at the golf course. The payoff amount
which includes the yearly payment and interest total is $268,027.50 (two hundred sixty-eight thousand twenty-seven and 50/100). Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #10 – Police Department Request – David Box made a motion to approve the purchase of seven fire extinguishers for the police vehicles for a total of $489.93 (four hundred eighty-nine and 93/100) and eight Kenwood TK5210 P25 portable radios for the police officers for a total of $3,200 (three thousand two hundred and no/100). Randy Spears seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #11 – Municipal Clerk Winter Conference – Randy Spears made a motion to approve the clerk conference in Orange Beach November 29-December 1 for a total of $564.28 (five hundred sixty-four and 28/100). Norman Holt the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #12 – Dora High School Football Sign Sponsorship – Norman Holt made a motion to
sponsor a sign for the Dora High School football program for $100 (one hundred and no/100).
Gary Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #13 – City Lake Project – Mayor Stephens discussed proceeding with the building of the pavilion at the lake. The original estimate from Nelson Engineering was $320,400 (three hundred twenty thousand four hundred and no/100). Mayor Stephens related the funding from the project could come from the $127,000 (one hundred twenty-seven thousand and no/100) lease agreement from the gas franchise, $100,000 (one hundred thousand and no/100) from the golf course fund and the remaining $93,400 (ninety-three thousand four hundred and no/100) from the general fund. Chris Edwards made a motion to begin the bid process for the lake project and approve the funding as mentioned per Mayor Stephens. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion passed.

Item #14 – Executive Session – Mayor Stephens requested an Executive Session to discuss the good name and character of an employee. Hezikiah Walker, Jr. made a motion to go into
Executive Session. The motion was seconded by Gary Thomas. Roll Call Vote: Chris Edwards-
Yes; George Sides, Jr.-Yes; Randy Spears-Yes; Gary Thomas-Yes; Hezikiah Walker, Jr.-Yes;
Mayor Stephens-Yes; David Box-Yes; Norman Holt-Yes; Yes=8. No=0. All in favor and the
motion carried.

Chris Edwards made a motion to return to regular session. David Box seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote-George Sides, Jr.-Yes; Randy Spears-Yes; Gary Thomas-Yes; Hezikiah Walker, Jr.-
Yes; Mayor Stephens-Yes; David Box-Yes; Norman Holt-Yes; Chris Edwards-Yes. Yes=8.
No=0. All in favor and the motion carried.

The council returned to open meeting.

David Box made the motion to adjourn the meeting. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Council Minutes – 8/31/23

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

August 31, 2023

The Council of the City of Dora, Alabama met in the Dora Municipal Building at 6:00 p.m.
Randy Spears nominated Chris Edwards to act as chairperson of the meeting. David Box
seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried. We were led in prayer by Gary
Thomas. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Chris Edwards.


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


Item#5- Approval of Minutes- The minutes of the August 10, 2023 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 – Old Business –


Interconnect Meter Site Option Agreement – Bob Conrad of Mid-South Engineering related
their company is wanting to purchase a right of way and easement for construction of a meter site on River Road as part of the Archaea Energy Franchise agreement. This option agreement gives their company the option within two years to execute this easement agreement which will last for a term of twenty years. There is still some wording in the agreement that needs to be clarified with the city attorney. David Box made a motion to table this item until the attorney revises the document. Hezikiah Walker, Jr. seconded the motion. All in favor and the item was tabled.


Security Camera Quotes – A comparison quote was received from Carter Sound Solutions, LLC for the security camera system for the Armory and the Police Department which was previously quoted by Scott’s Electric Contracting. Mr. Carter made note that he did not recommend the resolution or style of cameras nor the longevity of the equipment of the specs he was provided to compare from Scott’s Electric Contracting. He did provide another quote with what he recommended. It was decided to allow Scott’s Electrical Contracting to quote a system based on the specs Carter Sound Solutions, LLC recommended. This item was tabled until a revised quote is received from Scotts Electrical Contracting is received. Randy Spears made a motion to table the security camera quotes. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the item was tabled.


Item #7 — Bill List – A motion was made by George Sides, Jr. to approve the bill lists dated
August 22, 2023. Motion was seconded by Randy Spears. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #8 – Fire Department Updates/Requests – Chief Adrean Booth presented a list of items that are needed for the fire department. Some of these items are needed for compliance and will help to improve the City’s ISO score. The Command vehicle which is a 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe needs repairs which total approximately $4,000 (four thousand and no/100 dollars). George Sides, Jr. made a motion to surplus the 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe and get quotes for replacing the vehicle with a new vehicle from the state bid list. The remaining items include three back up cameras ($250), T shirt order to rebrand the new fire department logo ($1,000), fire prevention supplies ($500), battery charger ($200), jumper cables (2 sets- $250), two back pack blowers ($1,000), annual hose testing (cost to be determined), PPV fan for Engine 2 required for compliancy ($3600) and K12 saw for Engine 2 also required for compliancy ($1295) for an approximate total of $7,970.00 (seven thousand nine hundred seventy and no/100 dollars). Randy Spears seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


The quote was received from Brindlee Mountain for Engine 100 to return it to fire service. The
quote was $37,705.00 (thirty-seven thousand seven hundred five and no/100 dollars). It would also require an additional $20,000.00 (twenty thousand and no/100 dollars) to have the exterior cleaned, buffed, re-painted and the interior cleaned. Chief Booth and Chris Edwards both agree that this is not a wise investment to restore this engine for fire service but possibly keep the engine and have it refurbished to only be used for parades, funerals, dignitary events. A quote will be presented at a later meeting to have Engine 100 refurbished only for parades and dignitary events.

The hallway tile and tile in both bathrooms at the fire department have cracked and are coming loose. There was a quote given from D&D flooring to remove the tile and replace with laminate hardwood flooring for $6,000.00 (six thousand and no/100 dollars), a quote to remove the tile and replace with comparable tile for $11,500.00 (eleven thousand five hundred and no/100 dollars) and a quote from Timber Ridge Industries Inc. to remove the tile, stain and seal the concrete for $4,915.00 (four thousand nine hundred fifteen and no/100). David Box made a motion to accept the bid from Timber Ridge Industries to stain the concrete for $4,915.00 (four thousand nine hundred fifteen and no/100 dollars). Randy Spears seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #9-Support for Walker County Major Crime Unit Investigator- Jasper Chief of Police
J.C. Poe and District Attorney Bill Adair are in the process of recruiting an individual to create a position of Investigator for the Walker County Major Crime Unit. The person they are wanting to recruit was employed previously by the Jasper Police Department and has a history of Secret Service experience, certification in computer and cell phone forensics. They are seeking assistance from all municipalities in Walker County. They would like a donation of $5,000.00 (five thousand and no/100 dollars) per year from the City of Dora for approximately three years to be applied towards his salary. George Sides, Jr. made a motion to table this item until more details can be gathered from other municipalities regarding their donation to his salary. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion was tabled.


Item #10-Police Department Vest Carriers- George Sides, Jr. made a motion to purchase six
new carriers for the police officers vests for a cost of $1,530.00 (one thousand five hundred thirty and no/100). David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion passed.


Item #11-Walker County Children’s Advocacy Center Golf Tournament – Randy Spears
made a motion for the City of Dora to sponsor a tournament team at the Fore The Children Golf Tournament at Horse Creek Golf Course on September 15, 2023 for $300.00 (three hundred and no/100). David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


Gary Thomas made the motion to adjourn the meeting. Randy Spears seconded the motion. All in favor and meeting was adjourned.

Council Minutes – 7/27/23

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

July 27, 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 Stephens. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mayor Stephens.

The meeting was called to order by Mayor Stephens. 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, Hezekiah Walker, Jr. and Mayor Stephens were present. A quorum was in attendance.


Item#5- Approval of Minutes- The minutes of the July 13, 2023 were reviewed. A motion was
made by Randy Spears to accept the minutes as written. The motion was seconded by Chris Edwards.

All in favor and the motion carried. Mayor Stephens abstained from the vote due to his absence from the previous council meeting.


Item #6 – Old Business –The cost of fish feed was reviewed from three different vendors. Randy Spears made a motion to purchase fish food from Thrasher’s Feed and Supply in Sumiton. The cost of the food is $22.99/fifty-pound bag The fish need to be fed five pounds per day. Chris Edwards seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


An update was given about the lake improvement project. While excavating the new road, the construction company broke the lid of the old septic tank, and we were advised to have this old septic tank pumped and removed because it is in the ditch line of the entrance road. Superior Septic Services has been called to complete this task.


Item #7— Bill List – A motion was made by Norman Holt to approve the bill lists dated July 25, 2023.

Item #12-Employee Pay Raises-Randy Spears made a motion to increase all full time hourly
employee’s pay rates by fifty cents per hour (based on a poor evaluation by their supervisor), one dollar per hour (based on a good evaluation by their supervisor) and two dollars per hour for four employees at the golf course for their excellent evaluations and years of service credit. One part time golf course employee and one part time city hall employee also received an hourly increase. Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #13-Defensive Driving School Partnership- Hezikiah Walker, Jr. related that the City of
Jasper would like to send individuals from their city who choose to go to defensive driving school to participate in driving school here at Dora. David Box made a motion to allow the City of Jasper to refer individuals who qualify for driving school to participate and pay the driving school fee to the City of Dora to satisfy their fine from the City of Jasper. Chris Edwards seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #14-East Walker Sewer Authority-Robby Busby has been the Chairman of East Walker
Sewer Authority for approximately seven years and his commission has expired. Randy

Spears made a motion to nominate Philip Ballenger as Chairman of the East Walker Sewer Authority.

Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

A brief conversation was held regarding our current canine control ordinance. Randy Spears offered to research options regarding revising our current ordinance with canine control.


David Box made the motion to adjourn the meeting. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and meeting was adjourned.

Council Minutes – 7/13/2023

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

July 13, 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, George Sides, Jr., Randy Spears,
Gary Thomas, Hezikiah Walker, Jr. Chris Edwards and Mayor Stephens were absent. A quorum was in attendance.

Item #5-Approval of Minutes-The minutes of the June 22, 2023 council meeting 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-Hezikiah Walker, Jr. informed the council that he had copies of Parrish and Jasper’s nuisance ordinance and recommended a possible work session in the future to amend our current nuisance ordinance.

Item #7-Bill List-A motion was made by Randy Spears to approve the bill lists dated July 12,

2023. Motion was seconded by George Sides, Jr. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #8-Departmental Reports-A motion was made by George Sides, Jr. to approve the June
2023 departmental reports A-G. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion
carried. Hezikiah Walker, Jr. requested more information be given in the park report in the
future.

Item #9-Dora Lake Restocking-Randy Spears presented the management plan
recommendations by Southeastern Pond Management for the Dora City Lake. It is recommended that the lake be catch and release only at this time to allow the fish to grow in size. George Sides, Jr. made a motion to initiate the fertilization program which cost $160.42 per month and stock one load (approximately ten thousand) of adult thread fin shad which cost $2,100 (two thousand one hundred dollars and no/100 per load). David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

The management plan recommended an automatic fish feeder but more information was needed to be able to approve this purchase. The proposal will also include an annual electro fishing evaluation which would occur Summer 2024.

Item #10-Jackson Tree Service Quote-George Sides, Jr. made a motion to accept the quote by
Jackson Tree Service to trim all the overhanging limbs/trees from the areas of 80 Sharon
Boulevard to 4000 Sharon Boulevard and from 1225 Glover Road to 1500 Glover Road. Gary
Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Randy Spears made the motion to adjourn the meeting. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Council Minutes – 6/22/23

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

June 22, 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 Norman Holt. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mayor Stephens.
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Stephens. Roll call was taken by Stacy Turner. Present at the meeting were David Box, Norman Holt, Chris Edwards, George Sides, Jr., Gary Thomas, Hezekiah Walker, Jr. and Mayor Stephens were present. Randy Spears was absent. A quorum was in attendance.

Item#5- Approval of Minutes- The minutes of the June 8, 2023 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 #6 – Old Business –A brief update was given on the Lake Improvement Project including re-stocking the pond and Heritage Landing project.

Item #7— Bill List – A motion was made by George Sides, Jr. to approve the bill lists dated June 21, 2023. Motion was seconded by Norman Holt. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #8 –Department Head Pay Raises– Chris Edwards made a motion to give a $5,000 (five
thousand and no/100 dollar) yearly pay raise to Don Cummings, manager of Horse Creek Golf Course and Keith Wright, Superintendent of Horse Creek Golf Course. Their salaries are paid from the Horse Creek Golf Course account. Don Cummings has ten years of service with the City of Dora and Keith Wright has twenty-two years of service with the City of Dora. David Box seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote: Gary Thomas-Yes; Hezikiah Walker, Jr.-Yes; David Box-Yes; Norman Holt-Yes; Chris Edwards-Yes; George Sides, Jr.-Yes; Mayor Stephens-Yes. Yes=7. All in favor and the motion carried. David Box made a motion to give a $5,000 (five thousand and no/100 dollars) yearly pay raise to Jeremy Hicks, Street Department Superintendent who has twelve years of service with the City of Dora and to Police Chief Jared Hall who has eleven years of service with the City of Dora. Chris Edwards seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote: Hezikiah Walker, Jr.-Yes; Mayor Stephens-Yes; David Box-Yes; Norman Holt-Yes; Chris Edwards-Yes; George Sides, Jr.-Yes; Gary Thomas-Yes; Yes=7. All in favor and the motion carried. David Box made a motion to give a $3,000 (three thousand and no/100 dollars) yearly pay raise to Stacy Turner, City Clerk who has one year of service with the City of Dora. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote: Mayor Stephens-Yes; David Box-Yes; Norman Holt-Yes; Chris Edwards-Yes; George Sides, Jr.-Yes; Gary Thomas-Yes; Hezikiah Walker, Jr.-Yes. Yes=7. All in favor and the motion carried. George Sides, Jr. made a motion to increase the Fire Chief Salary to $600/month (six hundred dollars
and no/100) to Chase Welborn. His current salary is $500/month (five hundred dollars and no/100). Hezikiah Walker, Jr. seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

There was a brief discussion regarding the remaining employee pay raises, the nuisance ordinance and potential zoning in the future.


George Sides, Jr. made the motion to adjourn the meeting. Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and meeting was adjourned.