Cherokee County Commission Reviews Projects, Approves Schedules and Proclamations at November 10 Meeting
CENTRE — The Cherokee County Commission conducted its regular meeting on Monday, November 10, at 10 a.m. in the Council Chamber, following a planning session held at 9 a.m. Chairman Tim Burgess called the meeting to order, and with Commissioners Jones, Nichols, Shaw, and Teague all present, a quorum was established. There were no public comments or remarks from elected officials.
In recognition of Veterans Day, the Commission led the Pledge of Allegiance in honor of all United States military veterans. Commissioner Jones then offered the opening prayer.
After approving both the meeting agenda and the consent agenda — which included previous meeting minutes and payables — the Commission moved into reports from staff and agencies.
County Administrator Daniel Steele provided an update on the ongoing Cherokee County Courthouse construction project. Steele reported that flooring has been completed on the first floor and in the Circuit Court courtroom. The county is still awaiting delivery of furniture and furnishings. Over the next few weeks, cable installation is expected to be finished, and the new flagpole should be erected. Steele also noted that work on the parking lot is nearing completion, contingent on weather conditions.
Cherokee County EMA Director Shawn Rogers addressed the Commission regarding the shift to colder weather, reminding residents to check on neighbors and watch out for one another during the winter months. He emphasized that the agency is available to assist anyone in need and can provide resources and information. Chairman Burgess commended Rogers and the EMA staff for their proactive approach and the vital service they provide to the community. Burgess also voiced appreciation for Superintendent Mike Welsh for his continued cooperation with EMA on weather-related issues affecting local schools.
With no public hearings or old business on the agenda, the Commission moved into new business.
The first two items concerned adoption of the Commission’s 2025–2026 meeting schedule and the county’s 2026 holiday schedule. Both schedules will remain unchanged from previous years and were unanimously approved.
The Commission then adopted the Alabama Farm-City Week Proclamation.
Commissioner Jones read the proclamation before turning the floor over to Landon Marks, with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System and chairman of the Cherokee County Farm-City Committee. Marks said it was an honor to represent Cherokee County’s farmers, whom he described as among the best in the state. He thanked those who produce food and textiles for Alabama and noted that many of the region’s strongest students come from farm backgrounds. Marks also reminded residents of the important role agriculture plays—even when farm operations bring occasional noise, odors or traffic delays associated with essential equipment on county roads. He emphasized that many local roads were originally constructed to support farm-to-market needs.
Marks highlighted the upcoming Farm-City Banquet scheduled for November 20 and encouraged attendance. He also addressed concerns about shrinking family farms and the need to consider how to sustain agricultural communities for the next century. Chairman Burgess echoed those sentiments, underscoring the significance of agriculture in Cherokee County and its economic contributions. He expressed gratitude to Marks and the Extension for their continued work.
The Commission then approved a proposal for IBM system hardware maintenance from Solutions II, Inc. in the amount of $2,595 and authorized Chairman Burgess to sign the agreement.
Following that, commissioners adopted a resolution in support of America 250 and approved the associated agreement.
Commissioner Shaw read the resolution before the Commission recognized several guests, including municipal leaders and members of the America 250 Committee. Joy Perry with the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce spoke about ongoing planning efforts for the nationwide celebration marking the 250th anniversary of the United States. Events being planned include programs in schools, a boat parade, community celebrations, and Cedar Bluff’s Liberty Day. Perry also announced that the county will receive an official America 250 Seal for use in event promotion and advertising. She said she looks forward to collaborating with local partners on the historic celebration.
Members of the Cherokee County America 250 Committee include Judge Tim Burgess; County Administrator Daniel Steele; Leann Lockridge and Joy Perry of the Chamber of Commerce; Jo Bob Ray of the Historical Society; Superintendent Mike Welsh; and the mayors of each municipality: Jay Howell of Centre, Bill Warren of Cedar Bluff, Tommy Storey of Gaylesville, Gene Farmer of Sand Rock, and Brandy Pierce of Leesburg. The resolution passed unanimously.
The final item on the agenda was approval of 497 Solid Waste Exemptions for the 2026 year, presented earlier in the planning session by Diane Chastain of the Health Department. The exemptions were approved.
With no executive session needed, the meeting adjourned.
The Cherokee County Commission will reconvene at its next regularly scheduled session.
