Council Minutes – 4/24/25

Regular Session Minutes of the
Council of the City of Dora, Alabama
April 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 Norman Holt, George Sides, Jr., Gary Thomas, Robert Busby and Mayor Walker. David Box, Chris Edwards and Randy Spears were absent. A quorum was in attendance.

Item #5—Approval of the Minutes – The minutes of the April 10, 2025 regular session meeting minutes were reviewed. A motion was made by Norman Holt 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 April 24, 2025. Motion was seconded by Norman Holt. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #7-Old Business: Traffic Flow at Dora High School- The City of Dora has the right of way deed for Glenn C. Gant from the Walker County Board of Education. The traffic flow during this construction of the new high school was discussed.

Fire Hydrants – Chief Booth presented a spreadsheet detailing the fire hydrants in the city. There are a total of 131 (one hundred thirty-one) fire hydrants. There are 41 (forty-one) in need of repair and 13 (thirteen) are in need of complete replacement. There were estimates given from Dora Utilities detailing the cost based on the type of repair needed.

Walking Trail Trees – An arborist came and evaluated the area where the trees were cut down on the city’s right of way on the walking trail and has provided an estimate to clean the area, remove stumps and plant approximately eight trees. George Sides made a motion to pay The Arborist Advanced Tree Care LLC the assessment fee of $250 (two hundred fifty and no/100) and to table the rest of the decisions about the walking trail trees. Robert Busby
seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #8 – Justin Early Storage Unit Proposal at 1178 Sharon Blvd – Justin Early relates he is planning to build storage units on his property at 1178 Sharon Boulevard. He relates there could be an issue with a collapsed culvert on the city’s right of way in this area and wanted to make the council aware once he does the work on the land this could cause a flooding issue on Sharon Boulevard.

Item #9 – Ordinance #10 – 2025 – Property Annexation of Hosey Smoot and Tracy 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. George Sides made a motion to accept Ordinance #10-2025-Property annexation of Hosey Smoot and Tracy Smoot. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #10 – Ordinance #11-2025 – Property Annexation of Roy and Shirley Penick-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. George Sides made a motion to accept Ordinance #11-2025-Property annexation of Roy and Shirley Penick.

Gary Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #11- Ordinance #12-2025- Property Annexation of Belinda Lyons and Terry Speigner-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. George Sides made a motion to accept Ordinance #12-2025-Property annexation of Belinda Lyons and Terry Speigner. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #12- Ordinance #13-2025- Property Annexation of Belinda Lyons and Terry Speigner-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. George Sides made a motion to accept Ordinance #13-2025-Property annexation of Belinda Lyons and
Terry Speigner. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #13- Ordinance #14-2025- Property Annexation of Faishon Parker and Jaicyrus Parrish-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. George Sides made a motion to accept Ordinance #14-2025-Property annexation of Faishon Parker and Jaicyrus Parrish. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #14- Ordinance #15-2025- Property Annexation of Bretford Griffin-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. George Sides made a motion to accept Ordinance #15-2025-Property annexation of Bretford Griffin. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Approval of Ordinances-See Minutes From 5/8/2025.


Item #15-Proclamation-Fair Housing Month-Norman Holt made a motion to accept the proclamation recognizing April as Fair Housing Month. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #16-Fire Department Gutters-Norman Holt made a motion to accept the estimate from Nix Gutters for $1,600 (one thousand six hundred and no/100) to install two hundred feet of gutter guard, clean gutters and adjust them so they drain correctly. Robert Busby seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #13-Public Comment-Chris Wise who owns Wise Towing spoke about recent issues with towing within the city and will schedule a time to speak to the Mayor and Chief Hall and be added to the agenda at a future meeting.

Item #14-Adjourn- Robert Busby made the motion to adjourn the meeting. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and the meeting was adjourned.

Council Minutes – 4/10/25

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

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

Item #5—Approval of the Minutes – The minutes of the March 27, 2025 regular meeting
minutes and April 3, 2025 work session 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- George Sides made a motion to approve the
departmental reports A-F. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #7 – Bill List – A motion was made by George Sides to approve the bill list dated April 8, 2025. Motion was seconded by Randy Spears. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #8-Old Business-Mayor Walker related there is no further update at this time regarding the wrecker service rotation. The issue with the trees that were cut on the city’s right of way of the walking trail was discussed. Heath Albright of Brighton Forestry (256) 531-4441 was the company that paid the landowner Herschel Chandler to cut the trees. George Sides made a motion to table this issue at this time until further information is obtained. Randy Spears
seconded the motion. All in favor and the item was tabled. The logging company who did the
work on the property broke a gas line causing a major gas leak. They did not have a business license to do the work in the city.

The fire hydrants were discussed that needed repaired or replaced in the city. Traffic flow around the new high school construction was also discussed.


Item #9-Proclamation for Child Abuse Awareness Month- Johnny Sudberry, Executive
Director of the Walker County Children’s Advocacy Center spoke about April being child abuse awareness month and related there were seven hundred cases of child abuse investigations in Walker County last fiscal year. He states the advocacy center does approximately one hundred fifty forensic interviews per year. He states the funding for their organization comes from ADECA grants and community donations. George Sides made a motion to accept the proclamation recognizing April as child abuse awareness month and to donate $5,000 (five thousand and no/100) to the Walker County Children’s Advocacy Center. Randy Spears seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #10- AL Power-Lighting Services Agreement-Storm Shelter- Randy Spears made a
motion to accept the lighting services agreement for lighting outside the storm shelter from AL Power. The monthly bill will be approximately $15(fifteen) per month. David Box seconded the motion. Robert Busby abstained. YES=6; ABSTAIN=1. The motion carried.

Item #11- Fire Department Request- Chief Booth requested $1,000 (one thousand and no/100) to purchase two shirts per volunteer firefighter. Randy Spears made a motion to approve $1,000 (one thousand and no/100) for the volunteer fire department t-shirts. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

Item #12-Police Department Request- Chief Hall presented the current police department
vehicle inventory and assignment. He relates that several of the vehicles have over thirteen
thousand engine hours and one of the older vehicles (2014 Dodge Charger) needs to be declared surplus and sold. Randy Spears made a motion to purchase a 2025 Dodge Durango AWD Pursuit vehicle for $41,403.24 (forty-one thousand four hundred three and 24/100) plus approximately $10,000 (ten thousand and no/100) to outfit the vehicle with lights, radio and decals. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


Item #13- Ordinance #10-2025- Property Annexation of Hosey Smoot and Tracy Smoot-
First Reading- Ordinance #10-2025 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 #14-Ordinance #11-2025- Property Annexation of Roy and Shirley Penick-First
    Reading- Ordinance #11-2025 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 #15- Ordinance #12-2025- Property Annexation of Belinda Lyons and Terry
    Speigner-First Reading- Ordinance #12-2025 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 #16- Ordinance #13-2025- Property Annexation of Belinda Lyons and Terry
    Speigner-First Reading- Ordinance #13-2025 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 #17- Ordinance #14-2025- Property Annexation of Fashion Parker and Jaicyrus
    Parrish-First Reading- Ordinance #14-2025 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 #18- Ordinance #15-2025- Property Annexation of Bretford Griffin-First Reading-
    Ordinance #15-2025 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 #18-Public Comment-None.

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

    Work Session Council Minutes – 4/3/25

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

    April 3, 2025

    We were led in prayer by Mayor Hezikiah L. Walker, Jr. Present at the meeting were David Box,
    George Sides, Jr., Gary Thomas, Chris Edwards and Mayor Walker. City Attorney Jim
    Brakefield was present to discuss the purchasing policy that the council was asked to review by the grant writer. Jim also discussed the recent issue with the timber company who cut trees down on the city’s right of way of the walking trail. Chief Hall discussed the wrecker service rotation and if there is a need to add an additional company to the current rotation. Allen Rice (Consultant/Lobbyist) was also present at the meeting to discuss drafting a zoning ordinance for the city to consider.

    Council Minutes – 3/27/25

    Regular Session Minutes of the
    Council of the City of Dora, Alabama
    March 27, 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 March 13, 2025 regular 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 George Sides to approve the bill list dated March 26, 2025. Motion was seconded by Gary Thomas. All in favor and the motion carried.

    Item #7 – Old Business – None.

    Item #8-Pinnacle Bank- Terry Gurganus, Senior Business Lender of Pinnacle Bank Jasper office and Kristie Tuggle, Vice President and Manger of Sumiton office came to discuss lending options such as a ten-year general obligation warrant, temporary financing or long-term bonds if needed for the Heritage Landing development.

    Item #9- Ordinance #6-2025- Property Annexation of Hosey 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. Chris Edwards made a motion to accept Ordinance #6-2025-Property annexation of Hosey Smoot. David Box seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote: Randy Spears-YES; Gary Thomas-YES; Robert Busby-YES; Mayor Walker-YES; David Box-YES; Chris Edwards-YES; George Sides-YES. YES=7. All in favor and the motion carried.


    Item #10- Ordinance #7-2025- Property Annexation of St. Joseph’s Missionary Baptist Church (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 #7-2025-Property annexation of St. Joseph’s Missionary Baptist Church. Randy Spears seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote: Gary Thomas-YES; Robert Busby-YES; Mayor Walker-YES; David Box-YES; Chris Edwards-YES; Geroge Sides-YES; Randy Spears-
    YES. YES=7. All in favor and the motion carried.

    Item #11- Ordinance #8-2025- Property Annexation of Terry Speigner (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 #8-2025-Property annexation of Terry Speigner. Randy Spears seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote: Robert Busby-YES; Mayor Walker-YES; David Box-YES; Chris Edwards-YES; George Sides-YES; Randy Spears-YES; Gary Thomas-YES. YES=7. All in favor and the motion carried.

    Item #12-Ordinance #9-2025- Property Annexation of Belinda Lyons and Terry Speigner-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 #9-2025-Property annexation of Belinda Lyons and Terry Speigner. Robert Busby seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote: Mayor Walker-YES; David Box-YES; Chris
    Edwards-YES; George Sides-YES; Randy Spears-YES; Gary Thomas-YES; Robert Busby-YES. YES=7. All in favor and the motion carried.


    Item #13- City of Light 5K- Chris Edwards made a motion to pay $200 (two hundred and no/100) for advertising for the City of Lights 5K which is to be held on May 3 @ 8 a.m. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

    Item #14-Golf Course-Deck Repair Quote-A quote from ACP Co for emergency repairs on the deck at Horse Creek Golf Course was received for $62,500 (sixty-two thousand five hundred and no/100). A quote from Home Repair Specialist, LLC, was received for $29,820 (twenty-nine thousand eight hundred twenty and no/100). A motion was made by Randy Spears to accept the low bid of $29,820 (twenty-nine thousand eight hundred twenty
    and no/100) from Home Repair Specialist, LLC due to the emergent nature of the repairs needed to the deck. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.
    Item #15- Storm Shelter-Parking Area Quote-A quote from Earthmovers was received to do concrete work including five handicap parking spaces around the storm shelter in the amount of $20,640 (twenty thousand six hundred forty and no/100) for forty yards of concrete. Chris Edwards made a motion to table this item until another bid is received. Robert Busby seconded the motion. All in favor and the item was tabled.


    Item #16-Police Department Wrecker Service Rotation-There are currently three wrecker services in the call rotation by the police department. There is a request from another company to be added to our current call rotation.


    A discussion was had regarding our rotation policy. No action was taken on this item.
    Item #17-Walking Trail Trees-Albright Forest Services bought lumber from a landowner (Mr. Chandler) who now lives out of state. Cate’s Tree Service is the local company who came to cut down the trees on this property. They cut four hundred fifty feet worth of trees on the property next to the walking trail. It appears that the company cut trees on the city’s right of way on the walking trail which has caused a negative impact on the walking trail. It was
    decided to get Jim Brakefield’s opinion regarding pursuing action against the lumber company.


    Item #18-Highway 78 Bridge – ALDOT is planning to take down the overpass on Highway 78 and replace it in the future. They have requested approval from the city to accept the power bill for inside the tunnel once the bridge is replaced. The project is scheduled to be bid in January 2026. George Sides made a motion to accept the lighting bill for the new bridge tunnel. Chris Edwards seconded the motion All in favor and the motion carried.


    Item #19-Public Comment-Dustin Beatty spoke about his intent to run for House
    District 13 as the State Representative.


    Item #20-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 – 3/13/25

    Regular Session Minutes of the
    Council of the City of Dora, Alabama
    March 13, 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 February 27, 2025 regular meeting minutes were reviewed. A motion was made by Gary Thomas to accept the minutes as written. The motion was seconded by Norman Holt. All in favor and the motion carried.

    Item #6— Departmental Reports A-F- Robert Busby 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 March 12, 2025. Motion was seconded by Gary Thomas. All in favor and the motion carried.

    Item #8-Old Business- Usage of Baseball Fields-Mayor Walker related that there were not enough children to register for baseball/softball so there will be no teams. Sumiton Park and Rec and also four travel ball teams who would like to rent the fields for their practices. Norman Holt made a motion to charge $1,000 (one-thousand and no/100) per month per team to use the field two times per week. George Sides seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

    Fireworks Display-Mayor Walker related that Pyro Productions contacted the city to discuss the contract regarding the approved fireworks display for July 4, 2025. Since Chase Gant is no longer the park director and he was the shooter for our show, our options are to cancel the show and pay the 25% cancellation fee or we can pay their company an increased fee to have them shoot the show but the date of the show would have to be changed. David
    Box made the motion to pay the cancellation fee of $1,766.18 (one thousand seven hundred sixty-six and 18/100). Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

    Part Time Employee – There was a discussion regarding hiring Jimmy Haun and two of his helpers to do various projects around the city that need completed now and to use them on an as needed basis when future projects arise.


    The rate of pay was discussed and the terms of their work. No action was taken on this item.
    Sharon Boulevard-City Limits-Mayor Walker related he contacted Commissioner Robert Aderholt regarding annexing all of Sharond Boulevard into the city limits. He related that is possible but it meant we would be responsible for maintenance on the entire road if we were to do that.

    Storm Shelter Update-Mayor Walker related that the water, gas and septic has all been connected. The electrician is waiting on a panel and then the final inspection before the shelter can be opened.

    Lockerbie Phase 2-Mayor Walker related that the construction of phase 2 of Lockerbie has began again. The contractors noticed there was a drainage issue with a culvert pipe at the end of the current subdivision. Drain Werks ran a camera inside the pipe and it was discovered that the pipe was busted. They are getting an estimate on the cost
    of the pipe for replacement.

    Item #9-Ordinance #3-2025- Property Annexation of Derrick Ellington (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. Robert Busby made a motion to accept Ordinance #3-2025-Property annexation of Derrick Ellington. Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


    Item #10- Ordinance #4-2025- Property Annexation of Hosey Smoot and Tracy 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. David Box made a motion to accept Ordinance #4-2025-Property annexation of Hosey Smoot and Tracy
    Smoot. Robert Busby seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


    Item #11- Ordinance #5-2025- Property Annexation of Bruce Jones (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. David Box made a motion to accept Ordinance #5-2025-Property annexation of Bruce Jones. Gary Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

    Item #12-Ordinance #6-2025- Ordinance 6-2025- Property Annexation of Hosey Smoot-First Reading- Ordinance #6-2025 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 #13- Ordinance #7-2025- Property Annexation of St. Joseph’s Missionary Baptist Church-First Reading- Ordinance #7-2025 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 #14-Ordinance #8-2025- Property Annexation of Terry Speigner-First Reading- Ordinance #8-2025 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 #15- Ordinance #9-2025- Property Annexation of Belinda Lyons and Terry Speigner-First Reading- Ordinance #9-2025 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 #16-Heritage Landing Lighting Project-The lighting project proposal from AL Power was reviewed. The interior lights for Heritage Landing will cost the city $180.18 (one hundred eighteen & no/100). The proposal for installing three fixtures on Sharon Blvd near the entrances of Heritage Landing was also reviewed.

    Item #17-Resolution #3-2025 – Gary Thomas made a motion to approve Resolution#3-2025 to give Mayor Hezikiah L. Walker, Jr. the authority to enter into an agreement with AL Department of Transportation for the cooperative maintenance of public right of way with reimbursement. Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

    George Sides made a motion to remove the crepe myrtle trees from the median of Highway 78. Davd Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

    Item #18-Public Comment-None.

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

    Council Minutes – 2/27/25

    Regular Session Minutes of the
    Council of the City of Dora, Alabama
    February 27, 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 Norman Holt, George Sides, Jr., Chris Edwards, Randy Spears, Gary Thomas, Robert Busby and Mayor Walker. David Box was absent. A quorum was in attendance.

    Item #5—Approval of the Minutes – The minutes of the February 13, 2025 regular session
    meeting minutes and February 20, 2025 work session minutes were reviewed. A motion was
    made by Norman Holt to accept the minutes as written. The motion was seconded by Randy
    Spears. All in favor and the motion carried.

    Item #6— Bill List – A motion was made by Norman Holt to approve the bill list dated February 26, 2025. Motion was seconded by Gary Thomas. All in favor and the motion carried.

    Item #7-Old Business – None.

    Item #8-East Walker Sewer Authority – Phillip Ballenger, Chairman of the East Walker Sewer Authority related the sewer authority was experiencing a financial hardship and needs some assistance. Robert Busby made a motion to donate $10,000 (ten thousand and no/100) to the East Walker Sewer Authority. Randy Spears seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

    Item #9-Ordinance #3-2025- Property Annexation of Derrick Ellington-First Reading- The first reading of Ordinance #3-2025 Property of Derrick Ellington located at 5442 Sharon
    Boulevard was heard. The petition for annexation signed by Derrick Ellington and map of
    property was also presented. The ordinance will be posted and published as required by law.

    Item #10-Ordinance #4-2025-Property of Hosey Smoot and Tracy Smoot-First Reading –
    The first reading of Ordinance #4-2025 Property of Hosey Smoot and Tracy Smoot was heard.
    The petition for annexation signed by Hosey Smoot and Tracey Smoot and map of property was also presented. The ordinance will be posted and published as required by law.

    Item #11-Ordinance #5-2025-Property of Bruce Jones-First Reading– The first reading of
    Ordinance #5-2025 Property of Bruce Jones located at 137 Matthews Street. The petition for
    annexation signed by Bruce Jones and map of property was also presented. The ordinance will be posted and published as required by law.


    Item #12-Resolution #2-2025-City of Dora Purchasing Policy- The City Clerk, Stacy Turner
    related that the grant writers recommended the City of Dora’s Purchasing Policy be updated due to changes in the bid law. Chris Edwards made a motion to table Item #12-Resolution #2=2025- City of Dora’s Purchasing Policy until the resolution and policy be reviewed by the City Attorney, Jim Brakefield. Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the item was tabled.

    Item #13-Public Comment – None.

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

    Workshop Council Minutes – 2/20/25

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

    February 20, 2025

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

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

    The purpose of the meeting was to discuss a possible loan to East Walker Sewer
    Authority, the status of the Heritage Landing project and the possibility of implementing
    a diesel fuel and lodging tax.

    Council Minutes – 2/13/25

    Regular Session Minutes of the
    Council of the City of Dora, Alabama
    February 13, 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, George Sides, Jr., Chris Edwards, Randy Spears, Gary Thomas, Robert Busby and Mayor Walker. A quorum was in attendance.

    Item #5—Approval of the Minutes – The minutes of the January 23, 2025 regular meeting
    minutes 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.

    Item #6— Departmental Reports A-F – George Sides 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 George Sides to approve the bill list dated February 10, 2025. Motion was seconded by Gary Thomas. All in favor and the motion carried.
    Item #8-Old Business-Mayor Walker related the storm shelter structure has been delivered and the crew is working to finish installation. An update regarding the Heritage Landing project was given to the council.


    Item #9 – Angela Kyzer – WalMart Vision Center-Glow Run to benefit Children’s Miracle
    Network
    – Angela Kyzer, manager at the Wal-Mart Sumiton Vision Center is organizing a glow run to benefit Children’s Miracle Network. She would like this event to be held on April 26 at 8 p.m. at the walking trail entrance by Horse Creek Golf Course. She anticipates 50-75 people to participate. It will be one mile down the trail and one mile back. Registration will be on the night of the event. David Box made a motion to allow the Glow Run to be held at the walking trail.


    The city will provide police officers and will barricade any necessary street crossings. Gary
    Thomas seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

    Item #10 – Ordinance #2-2025 – Property Annexation of Tommy Gregory (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. David Box made a motion to accept Ordinance #2-2025-Property annexation of Tommy Gregory. Norman Holt 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; David Box: YES. YES=8. All in favor
    and the motion carried.

    Item #11-Golf Course Requests – Keith Wright related the golf course snack bar needs an
    upright freezer to be able to store more food items so the staff is not having to go to the grocery store daily for items that can be stored longer in the freezer. An estimate was reviewed from Sides Furniture for a commercial Whirlpool 17.8 cubic foot upright rolling garage freezer for $1,448 (one thousand four hundred forty-eight and no/100). Another estimate was from Home Depot for a commercial 17.8 cubic foot upright rolling garage freezer for $1,800 (one thousand eight hundred and no/100) was reviewed. Randy Spears made the motion to purchase the freezer from Sides Furniture for $1,448 (one thousand four hundred forty-eight and no/100). Norman Holt seconded the motion. George Sides abstained. The motion carried.

    Keith related the maintenance department needs to replace two of their utility carts that are over ten years old and aren’t able to pull the necessary equipment anymore. A quote was received from Jerry Pate Turf and Irrigation which is on the state bid list (Omnia partners) for $23,941.20 (twenty-three thousand nine hundred forty-one and 20/100) for two 2025 Carryall 500 Gasoline carts. Randy Spears made a motion to purchase two utility carts from Jerry Pate Turf and Irrigation for $23,941.20 (twenty-three thousand nine hundred forty-one and 20/100). Chris Edwards seconded the motion All in favor and the motion carried.

    Keith also presented two quotes for a new greens mower. He relates the greens mower he has is over five years old and it’s time to rotate it to a tee mower and purchase a new greens mower to keep the equipment rotated. The quote from John Deere for a 2025 John Deere 2700 Precision Cut Triplex Mower and cutting units for $65,613.84 (sixty-five thousand six hundred thirteen and 84/100) on Sourcewell (state bid list) was reviewed. Another quote was received from Jerry Pate Turf and Irrigation for a Toro Greensmaster 3300 Triflex for $77,464.15 (seventy-seven thousand four hundred sixty-four and 15/100). Norman Holt made a motion to purchase the John Deere mower for $65,613.84 (sixty-five thousand six hundred thirteen and 84/100) which is on the state bid list. Randy Spears seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion passed.

    Item #12-City Clerk Conferences – Randy Spears made a motion to send the City Clerk to the Spring (March 5-7) and Summer (April 23-25) Conferences for election training in the amount of $1,994.55 (one thousand nine hundred ninety-four and 55/100). Norman Holt seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


    Item #13-Park Program – Mayor Walker related the park director position was posted and there was only one applicant, Gregory “Tank” Cameron. He has agreed to accept the position as park director for the previous salary of the former park director ($500 five hundred/month). He is going to be able to work during normal business hours and has already begun cleaning the park office and is continuing baseball/softball registration. Randy Spears suggested a letter should be signed by the park director informing him of his duties.


    Item #14-Business License Hearing-Minutes of the Business License Hearing are attached
    to regular session minutes.


    Item #15-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.

    Council Minutes – 1/23/25

    Regular Session Minutes of the
    Council of the City of Dora, Alabama
    January 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 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, George Sides, Jr., Chris Edwards, Randy Spears, Gary Thomas and Mayor Walker. Robert Busby and Norman Holt were absent. A quorum was in attendance.

    Item #5 — Approval of the Minutes – The minutes of the January 9, 2025 regular meeting minutes 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 #6— Bill List – A motion was made by George Sides to approve the bill list dated January 23, 2025. Motion was seconded by Gary Thomas. All in favor and the motion carried.

    Item #7 – Old Business – None.


    Item #8 – Regional Planning Commission of Greater Birmingham – City of Dora Economic Development Strategic Plan – The Regional Planning Commission of Greater Birmingham presented the economic development strategic plan for the City of Dora.

    Item #9 – Memorial Bench at Dora Park/Lake – The parents (Lloyd and Kelly Perrigin) of Matthew Perrigin who was killed January 19, 2023 came to speak and ask for permission to place a memorial bench in honor of their son at Dora Park or at the lake at their expense. Matthew graduated from Dora High School in 2009 and lettered in baseball, football and wrestling. Upon leaving Dora, he went to Marion Military Institute where he played baseball
    and wrestled. David Box made a motion to give them permission to purchase a bench that will be placed in honor of their son. Before the bench is purchased, further details about the bench will be provided to the city for approval.


    George Sides seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


    Item #10 – Ordinance #14 – 2024 Property Annexation of Ruby Dorsey (55 Bobby Taylor Street) Second Reading – Chris Edwards made a motion to adopt Ordinance #14-2024 Property Annexation of Ruby Dorsey (55 Bobby Taylor Street). The ordinance has been published and posted for the required number of days. Public comments can be heard at this time. None was made. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

    Item #11 – Ordinance #2 – 2025 – Property Annexation of Thomas Gregory, Sr. First Reading – First Reading was heard of Ordinance #2-2025 Property Annexation of Thomas Gregory, Sr. The petition for annexation signed by Thomas Gregory, Sr. and map of property was also presented.

    Item #12 – Rebuild Alabama Report – The Rebuild AL Annual report was read for Fiscal Year 2024. There were no funds expended in fiscal year 2024. The current balance in the account is $43,915.06 (forty-three thousand nine hundred fifteen and 06/100). These funds can only be used for city roads and bridges only.

    Item #13 – Parking Area Quote and Fence Quote – Storm Shelter – Randy Spears made a motion to approve the quote from True Link Fence Company for Job Description B for $5,400 (five thousand four hundred and no/100).

    Chris Edwards seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

    Parking Area Quote – Storm Shelter – Randy Spears made a motion to table the quotes received from Norris Paving and SJ Asphalt Paving and reach out to the county commissioner and/or engineer for evaluation of the parking lot and sidewalk. David Box seconded the motion. The item was tabled.

    Item #14 – Fire Department Request – Randy Spears made a motion to purchase $4,000 (four thousand and no/100) for equipment needed for the fire department’s ISO inspection on February 4, 2025. George Sides seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

    Item #15 – Public Comments – Chase Gant, the former park director, asked to have a public hearing before the council tonight regarding his termination that occurred on Friday, January 17, 2025.

    Item #16 – Adjourn – George Sides made the motion to adjourn the meeting. Randy Spears seconded the motion. All in favor and the meeting was adjourned.

    Council Minute – 1/9/25

    Regular Session Minutes of the
    Council of the City of Dora, Alabama
    January 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 Mrs. Karen Walker. 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, George Sides, Jr., Chris Edwards, Gary Thomas, Robert Busby and Mayor Walker. Randy Spears and Norman Holt were absent. A quorum was in attendance.


    Item #5 — Approval of the Minutes – The minutes of the December 30, 2024 regular meeting minutes were reviewed. A motion was made by Gary Thomas to accept the minutes as written. The motion was seconded by Robert Busby. All in favor and the motion carried.

    Item #6 — Departmental Reports A-G – George Sides made a motion to approve the departmental reports A-G. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried

    Item #7 – Bill List – A motion was made by George Sides to approve the bill list dated January 8, 2025. Motion was seconded by Gary Thomas. All in favor and the motion carried.
    Item #8-Old Business-None.

    Item #9 – Ordinance #1 – 2025-Mayor/Council Salary – Chris Edwards made a motion to adopt Ordinance #1-2025 to increase the mayor and council salary effective the first Monday in November 2025. George Sides seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote: Chris Edwards-YES; George Sides-YES; Gary Thomas-YES; Robert Busby-NO; Mayor Walker-YES; David Box-YES. YES=5; NO=1. The motion carried.

    Item #10 – Resolution #1-2025 – Severe Weather Preparedness Tax Holiday – George Sides made a motion to approve Resolution #1-2025 to participate in the severe weather tax holiday February 21-23, 2025. Robert Busby seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

    Item #11 – Fire Department Request – Chief Booth explained the fire department needed to replace their whiteboard, the need for an Ipad and approval of the mandatory yearly fire hose test. George Sides made a motion to purchase a 6×4 whiteboard for $195 (one hundred ninety-five and no/100), an Ipad to be used to submit their patient care records electronically for $500 (five hundred and no/100) and to approve the yearly mandatory fire hose testing from Southeast Management Services in the amount of $4,022 (four thousand twenty-two and no/100. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.

    Item #12 – Pavilion Security Cameras – Mayor Walker related there had been a great deal of vandalism at the lake since the pavilion opened. David Box made a motion to accept Estimate 1 from Carter Sound Solutions in the amount of $3,774.31 (three thousand seven hundred seventy-four and 31/100). This will include four cameras and a 180-degree camera for the front of the pavilion and wi-fi for the lake pavilion to control the thermostats. This is a bridge system so the cameras can be viewed in real time in the police department. Robert Busby seconded the motion. All in favor and the motion carried.


    Item #13 – Fence Estimate – Storm Shelter – Mayor Walker related the storm shelter is scheduled to begin installation this week. A quote from True Link Fence Company was reviewed. George Sides made a motion to table the item until the council members are able to go visit the location to determine which option would work best. David Box seconded the motion. The motion was tabled.

    Item #14 – Park Program – Mayor Walker related that over the past three years, there has been a decline in the city’s park program. George Sides made a motion to hire a part-time park director to work 24 (twenty-four) hours per month and the pay be $500 (five hundred and no/100) per month. Motion died for lack of a second.


    Item #15 – Public Comments – None.


    Item #16 – Executive Session – Chris Edwards made a motion to adjourn regular session and enter executive session to discuss legal matters with City Attorney Jim Brakefield and will adjourn after the executive session is completed. David Box seconded the motion.


    Item #17 – Adjourn – Gary Thomas made the motion to adjourn the meeting. David Box seconded the motion. All in favor and the meeting was adjourned.