OAK GROVE, Ala. – Construction work to bring Oak Grove Town Hall into compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act standards is expected to allow visitors to use the building’s front entrance again next week.
Concrete work is expected to be completed and open to traffic by Monday, Nov. 16. A new front door and handrail will then be installed to complete the required improvements.
Mayor Tony White reported that much of the town’s paving project has been completed, along with the installation of pavement markings.
Council members were instructed to complete registration for required municipal officials training. They also were informed of a federal requirement that the town’s website and social media accounts be made ADA-compliant by April 2027.
Under Old Business, the council postponed consideration of interest-bearing bank accounts until after the first of the year.
Under New Business, the council approved the return to duty of former Volunteer Fire Department members Micah Pardue, Steven Simmons, and Nick Potss.
The council accepted the Fiscal Year 2020 and 2021 audited financial statements. The reports contained no findings or issues.
White was authorized to enter into an agreement with Posey C & M to install sewer cutoff valves for delinquent accounts.
The town clerk’s old computer was transferred to the Volunteer Fire Department for its use.
The council approved the town’s 2027 holiday schedule. The only change involved Christmas Day, which falls on a Saturday. Employees will receive Friday, Dec. 24, off instead.
The council also approved a 4 percent cost-of-living increase for all employees.
Jim & Nick’s was approved to cater the annual safety meeting and Christmas dinner on Tuesday, Dec. 8, following the council meeting. The restaurant was the only vendor to respond to the town’s request for bids. The agreement was approved for an amount not to exceed $700.
The council rejected a proposal to purchase a used Bobcat for the Public Works Department. Council member David Harris recommended looking for a higher-quality replacement with fewer operating hours.
Oak Grove Volunteer Fire Department Chief Cody Lunsford reported that the department received a $1,000 grant from the Talladega County Volunteer program to purchase an auxiliary generator.
Lunsford also reported that the department’s October Trunk or Treat event was a success, drawing more than 2,000 people. The department plans to continue the event in 2027.
