The Collinsville Town Council held its regular monthly meeting Monday night, addressing a wide range of community, infrastructure, and development items.
Mayor Jeff Chandler opened the meeting with comments about recent community events, including Veterans Day activities and a presentation hosted for Dr. Rich Johnson and his associates, who work with industrial parks to help identify potential locations for new businesses. The mayor thanked Library Director Jennifer Wilkins for hosting the two-hour program and noted that representatives from water, sewer, Mountain Electric, and the gas department also participated.
Garbage Billing Proposal May Save Town $16,000 Annually
The mayor informed the council that he plans to bring a proposal forward at the next meeting to change garbage billing from monthly to quarterly. Chandler said the change could save the town approximately $16,000 per year. Residents would still be allowed to come in and pay monthly if they preferred, but the town’s billing cycle would shift to quarterly.
A letter would be mailed to all customers explaining the change and payment options.
New Garbage Truck to Be Displayed at Tree Lighting
Chandler also shared that one of the town’s garbage truck drivers asked if the new truck could be displayed at the Christmas tree lighting event, and he approved the request.
Police & Fire Department Updates
The Police Department reported that it continues to maintain 24-hour coverage and that new GPS units for patrol vehicles should arrive by tomorrow.
The Fire Department announced that it has been awarded a $9,800 equipment grant from the Alabama Mountains, Rivers & Valleys RC&D Council. The department is considering using the grant to purchase new turnout gear.
Library & Community Events
Council members were reminded that the Library’s Open House would begin at 6 p.m., and several planned activities—including a youth soccer tournament—have been postponed until spring.
Caboose Restoration and Building Lease Discussion
A lengthy portion of the meeting focused on a presentation from a contractor working with PPG Matthews Paint Systems on a plan to restore the historic caboose located in downtown Collinsville.
The contractor explained that the caboose would receive a 10-year warrantied industrial-grade coating, sandblasting, repairs, primer, and clear coat. PPG would sponsor a portion of the materials as part of a long-term performance study.
To offset costs, the contractor has offered to exchange the caboose restoration work for 30 months of credit on the lease of a town-owned building he is currently occupying.
Council members discussed structural issues with the building—including stacked rock supports and an old oil tank beneath the floor—and the contractor offered to repair these items as part of the agreement.
Because the caboose sits in the historic district, all paint colors and exterior changes must be approved by the Historic Preservation Board.
I-59 Lighting Repairs
The council reviewed an estimate from High Voltage Electric to repair long-standing lighting outages along I-59 at a cost of $32,450. Several lights have been out for years due to wiring that was cut during previous state road work. The contractor will install improved LED fixtures but noted that the cost does not include repairs required if a new power feed must be installed.
Council members expressed concern about future development near the interstate—particularly a planned truck stop—and the need to ensure that any new lighting or wiring will not have to be relocated.
Electronic City Sign Still Under Review
The council continued discussions on purchasing an electronic message sign for the city. Representatives from a sign company emphasized durability, warranty coverage, and domestic manufacturing, noting differences between U.S.-made components and imported systems.
Because potential sign locations fall within the historic district, placement and appearance must receive approval from the Historic Preservation Board. Council members voted to table the item until additional information and site evaluations can be completed.
Employee Holiday Bonus
The council approved the annual one-time employee Christmas one time pay raise totaling $14,549.80.
Planning Commission – RV Campground Zoning
The Planning Commission reported unanimous support for a proposed recreational vehicle campground. City Attorney Pat Tate advised that the next step is to hold a public hearing, to be posted at least 15 days in advance.
Finally, DeKalb County EMA Director Mike Posey address the council concerning a mutual aid state wide agreement through the EMA and Director Posey will be the representative for the City.
You can listen to the complete meeting below.
