CHILDERSBURG, Ala. – With a relatively short agenda, several upcoming work session topics took center stage during the Childersburg City Council meeting on Tuesday, July 7, including a historical preservation grant and a new garbage collection contract.
Mayor Ken Wesson announced the city has been approved for a $56,250 grant from the Alabama Historical Commission to fund repairs to the far side of the Kymulga Covered Bridge.
The grant does not require a local funding match, but Mayor Wesson said the city will be responsible for any costs exceeding the grant amount.
“The biggest issue will be figuring out how to get the needed equipment on the other side of the creek to effect repairs,” Wesson said. “Having to do the work by hand could get expensive.”
Wesson also told council members they will need to address a new garbage collection contract at the council’s second meeting in July, as the city’s current agreement with GFL expires at the end of the month.
“We’re looking at a $26.04 rate going forward for one garbage container and rubbish pickup per month,” said Mayor Wesson, “but Alexander City and Chelsea have the same services we have, and their rates stand at bids of $29 and $30, respectively. Ours will be better for the same services.”
In New Business, the council approved the purchase of a 14-foot, National Fire Protection Association-compliant extension ladder for the Fire Department from NAFECO for $1,319, plus freight charges.
The council also approved the hiring of Jason Watson and Gregory Montgomery as advanced firefighters on an as-needed, part-time temporary basis at a rate of $14 per hour.
After 22 years of service, the heating and cooling system at the Rescue Squad Building has reached the end of its useful life. The council approved the installation of a four-ton, Ameristar split HVAC system from Sleeping Giant for $8,892. The system includes a five-year parts warranty and will be funded through Fund 8, the Alabama Trust Fund.
Council members also approved travel expenses for Rachel Carlson to attend the 2026 Alabama Municipal Court Clerks & Magistrates Association Conference in September at the Perdido Beach Resort. Approved expenses include the $430 registration fee, three nights of lodging, per diem, and mileage, to be paid from Fund 11, Corrections.
The council approved payment of invoices totaling $1,534,621.04.
The next regular council meeting is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 21, and will be preceded by a work session at 10:30 a.m.
