PIEDMONT, Ala. — The Piedmont City Council moved through a full agenda Tuesday evening, approving multiple resolutions, paying monthly bills, hearing departmental reports, and witnessing an emotional recognition ceremony for the city’s police chief.

Council Approves Severe Weather Tax Holiday, Grant Signature Changes

Council members voted to participate in the state’s Severe Weather Preparedness Tax Holiday, a measure the city has historically skipped but will now support to provide savings to residents.

Two additional resolutions passed unanimously:

• Resolution 2025-31 updates authorized signatures for the city’s wastewater grant, transferring authority from former Mayor Baker to the current mayor.

• Resolution 2025-32 adds Piedmont as a defendant in a statewide simplified sales tax lawsuit, led by the City of Tuscaloosa. County officials requested that municipalities approve participation before December 3.

Bills for Payment and Budget Discussions

The council approved $73,627.24 in bills, representing a full month of expenses due to the earlier organizational meeting. The mayor noted that insurance payments included in the bills have been a topic of discussion, and he plans to meet with representatives to clarify a reimbursement issue from the previous year.

Police Department Report and Chief Honored

Police Chief Nathan Johnson presented the department’s October report, which included:

• 27 arrests

• 881 officer-initiated contacts

• 184 patrols and property checks

• 267 calls for service, with 66 reports filed

• 6,801 patrol miles

• $8,395 in municipal court collections

Johnson also updated the council on an ADECA grant that funds traffic enforcement overtime, which recently increased from $2,500 to $5,000 per month.

The meeting then paused for a surprise recognition ceremony. Captain Parker presented Chief Johnson with the J. Edgar Hoover Memorial Gold Medal, awarded by the American Police Hall of Fame for distinguished public service. The award highlighted Johnson’s efforts modernizing the department, securing vehicles and equipment, expanding mental health crisis resources, and strengthening community relationships.

“You represent the city well, and we appreciate your service,” the mayor said.

Fire Department: Calls Up, Radio Fees Approved

The Piedmont Fire Department reported 84 calls in October, including 41 medical calls. Due to extremely dry conditions, the department issued a no-burn notice.

The council approved the department’s annual radio system user fees, totaling $13,501.44, though noted the cost is contractual and included in the budget.

Chief Todd also announced promising news: the department has been approved for federal appropriations, pending final documentation from the USDA, to purchase a new emergency vehicle. Delivery timelines vary depending on availability.

Library and Community Updates

The library reported 933 items circulated in October, along with 13 events drawing a total of 410 participants.

During public comments, representatives of the Piedmont Entertainment Committee outlined upcoming holiday events, including participation in local Christmas parades and the return of the community-favorite Squirrel Drop on New Year’s Eve.

Councilmember Comments

Council members reported district concerns, ongoing cleanup needs, and recent collaborative meetings with county officials. Several emphasized the importance of strengthening partnerships among municipalities and ensuring Piedmont remains visible and engaged in regional discussions.

Listen to the meeting right here.