Piedmont, Ala.– The Piedmont City Council approved funding measures, addressed unsafe properties, and discussed ongoing concerns about budgeting practices and school traffic safety during its regular meeting Tuesday evening.

Council members approved two resolutions targeting unsafe structures within the city. One property on North Center Avenue will be demolished after the owner paid the city in advance, eliminating the need for a lien. A second property on North Church Street will also be cleared, with the city placing a lien on that property to recover costs.

City officials indicated that cleanup could begin immediately, noting equipment is already staged and ready.

The council unanimously approved payment of $741,159.49 in total expenses, including:

• $597,862.30 in general expenditures

• $143,297.19 in payroll

The Piedmont Police Department reported 34 arrests and 306 calls for service in February, along with more than 1,500 dispatch calls. Police leadership also addressed a recent change in policy, confirming the department will no longer post names of individuals on social media.

The fire department responded to 78 calls during the same period and is preparing for an upcoming ISO evaluation, which could impact local insurance rates. Fire officials also reported increased activity as warmer weather approaches.

Council members discussed a proposal to adjust school zone hours, moving the afternoon start time from 2:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. to better align with pre-kindergarten dismissal and reduce traffic conflicts.

Officials emphasized that no major traffic pattern changes will occur before the end of the current school year. Any adjustment will require a formal ordinance and additional public communication.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on internal purchasing procedures after an electric department request for approximately $19,000 in materials sparked discussion.

Council members acknowledged the city has operated without a formal budget for several years, leading departments to seek approval for routine purchases. Leaders agreed that everyday operational expenses should not require council approval and expressed plans to implement a structured budgeting system in the upcoming fiscal year.

During public comments, residents raised several issues:

• Loss of police jurisdiction tax revenue due to a state paperwork issue affecting multiple municipalities

• The need to improve the appearance of vacant storefronts through decorative facades or community art

• Concerns about maintaining strong fire and police services to avoid increases in insurance costs

Residents also offered to assist with planning and economic development efforts.

Council members addressed several local concerns, including debris collection in residential areas and improper burning practices. Officials reiterated that only natural debris may be burned and that permits are required.

The city also announced a renewed partnership with Calhoun County Animal Control, with the first pickup scheduled to begin this week. Officials cautioned that space is limited and services will roll out gradually.

The council promoted the upcoming 20th Annual Throttle Kings Car Show, scheduled for Saturday at Fagan Park. Organizers expect hundreds of vehicles and several hundred attendees.

You can listen to the entire meeting right here: