PIEDMONT, Ala.– The Piedmont City Council approved multiple financial items and received departmental updates during its regular meeting Tuesday evening.
Council members first approved the minutes from the previous meeting before voting to pay monthly bills. Officials reported payroll expenses totaling $248,441.27, along with additional expenditures exceeding $611,000. One council member abstained from the vote to approve payment of bills.
The council approved a $12,383 repair to a city-owned skid steer following a report from public works officials. The seven-year-old piece of equipment, which has approximately 500 hours of use, experienced mechanical issues including diesel exhaust system problems and track wear. After reviewing repair and replacement options, officials agreed repairing the existing equipment was the most cost-effective solution.
Fire Chief Todd Kirkland provided an update on a federal grant application related to the purchase of a new fire truck. He told council members the city expects to receive a pro forma application from the USDA between now and mid-February, with an estimated two-month processing period. Kirkland recommended placing the city on the manufacturer’s production list to avoid extended delays.
The council approved a motion to proceed with getting on the waiting list for the new fire truck. The proposed truck would include a 1,500-gallon tank and a 1,500-gallon-per-minute pump, matching the department’s current specifications. Officials noted the city would not be financially obligated if grant funding does not materialize.
During council reports, members announced the cancellation of this year’s Polar Plunge and thanked the Piedmont Parks and Recreation Council for its work on the recent Squirrel Drop event. The council also recognized Tashia Blackerby as the city’s new clerk, noting her 15 years of experience in municipal government.
Council members also approved flooring repairs at the city administration building. A total of $7,876 was authorized for repairs in the main lobby and offices due to sagging and damaged flooring, along with an additional $786 for flooring work in another office as staff reorganization plans move forward.
With no further business, the Piedmont City Council voted unanimously to adjourn the meeting.
You can listen to the entire meeting right here:
