CEDAR BLUFF– The Cedar Bluff Town Council approved sidewalk matching funds and equipment repair payments during its October 15 meeting. Members also scheduled a public hearing on a proposed residential rezoning and considered three vehicle enforcement ordinances.
The meeting at Town Hall followed a workshop that included questions about infrastructure spending, neighborhood development, and public safety. Council members also received departmental reports covering September activity.
Sidewalk Project Draws Safety and Spending Discussion
Council members unanimously approved the sidewalk grant agreement and a related resolution. The funding motion also called for paying the town’s matching contribution in two payments. The workshop presentation put the total project cost at $356,288.
During the workshop, officials described a sidewalk connection between the school and the town park. Supporters emphasized child safety because students walk from school to the park after classes.
The discussion also covered a crossing at Alabama 68 and coordination with utility work. Officials discussed designing the project to accommodate a potential future roundabout as well.
However, the proposal prompted questions about competing town expenses. Concerns included deteriorating roads, future equipment costs, and the local contributions required for other grants.
Participants also discussed which accounts could cover the match and whether payments could span two fiscal years. The subsequent motion included the two-payment arrangement.
Council Sets Hearing on Residential Rezoning
The council also unanimously approved a public hearing at 4:30 p.m. before its next meeting on a proposed residential rezoning.
During the workshop, the presentation outlined a development involving approximately 70 to 80 single-family homes in three phases. The discussion identified property along Armstrong Street and nearby land as part of the proposal.
The request would change the property from rural residential zoning to R3. Proposed 65-foot lot frontages prompted the request because they fall below the rural residential requirement. However, the presentation emphasized maintaining single-family development and preserving the neighborhood’s residential character.
The developer also described a gradual construction schedule tied to demand, rather than building all the homes at once. He said the work could extend over five to 10 years, depending on demand.
Planning officials discussed restrictions on multifamily development and the proposed subdivision covenants as well. The developer also described a minimum home size of 1,500 square feet. The council’s action scheduled public input on the request; it did not grant final rezoning approval.
Fire Engine Service and Garbage Truck Repairs
Council members unanimously approved a $5,826.93 invoice from Brindlee Mountain Fire Apparatus. The payment covered service and inspection of both town fire engines.
Workshop participants also discussed vehicle inspections, maintenance checklists, and additional repair needs identified during servicing. One request called for including vehicle checklists with monthly departmental reports.
The council then unanimously approved a $6,800 invoice from Trammell Welding for garbage truck repairs.
During the workshop, officials described alternating the town’s two garbage trucks monthly. They also discussed weekly washing to help maintain the trucks and prevent deterioration.
In addition, council members unanimously accepted a fire department application.
Little River Landing Alcohol Application
The council approved the alcohol application for Little River Landing, LLC, with four yes votes and one abstention. Dustin Dutton abstained.
Council members Bobbie Hicks, Loretta Higgins, and Adam McNabb voted yes, along with Mayor Bill Warren.
Vehicle Ordinances Address Registration, Licensing, and Insurance
Council members also considered three ordinances requested by the police department.
The council unanimously adopted Ordinance 2026-17, addressing impoundment of vehicles operated with suspended, revoked, canceled, or expired registration.
Members then unanimously adopted Ordinance 2026-18. Its agenda title addresses seizure and forfeiture of automobiles when operators cannot produce a valid driver’s license on an officer’s demand.
They also adopted Ordinance 2026-19, concerning seizure and impoundment of vehicles operated without proof of mandatory liability insurance.
During the workshop, the discussion covered how officers would verify licenses and insurance. Police representatives also described checking records when a driver cannot produce a physical document.
Council members raised questions about stranded drivers and opportunities for a licensed person to collect a vehicle. Participants also emphasized informing residents about the enforcement measures.
September Police Activity and Department Updates
The Cedar Bluff Police Department reported 7,303 miles patrolled during September, along with 101 warnings and 44 tickets. The report also listed three felony arrests, four misdemeanor arrests, one drug case, and 23 warrants served.
In addition, the written monthly report recorded 38 incident/offense reports, four suspect interviews, and one crime tip answered. It listed four assigned cases and three open investigations as well.
The written report also listed one arrest and four overtime hours under targeted enforcement. It recorded no traffic overtime for September. During the meeting, police attributed that gap to awaiting a grant signature.
Officials also announced another Ford Explorer for the police department and recognized new officer Frank DeHaro. A biography presented during the meeting described his eight years of military service and two years of law enforcement experience.
The presentation also noted his involvement in real estate and emphasized leadership, accountability, and community service.
In addition, the department reported that Sgt. Jamie Chatman had completed training in Tuscaloosa with a new narcotics-detection dog.
Building and Fire Department Reports
The building inspection report listed eight building permits, three moving permits, and 13 business licenses.
The Cedar Bluff Fire Department delivered a report covering medical calls, wildland and structure fires, traffic control, and fire alarms.
Workshop participants also discussed town identification on employee shirts. The discussion emphasized helping residents recognize town personnel who approach their property.
Minutes and Financial Report
The council unanimously approved the September 14 meeting minutes. Members also unanimously approved the August 2026 financial report.
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