by Maya Quinn, managing editor

On Tuesday, June 9th, the Eutaw City Council met for its regular session. All city council members were present for the session, with Councilwoman Watkins arriving shortly after new business discussions began.

The City of Eutaw’s water system recently received updates through satellite upgrades and new meters. Mayor Cockrell explained that the city had been operating under a billing rate from 2024 and was required by state auditors to implement the 2026 rate moving forward. “We are working diligently to improve the water system,” Mayor Cockrell began, “We want to serve every customer the right way.” Cockrell acknowledged that many citizens are receiving heavily inflated bills due to antenna readings that do not account for water leaks. He urges citizens to come to city hall to have their rates adjusted, and that city workers are working up to 14-hour days on leaks. New pipe installations are underway as well.

During council member reports, Councilman Woodruff also testified to the city workers’ efforts. “We have some tremendous workers,” he stated as he recounted personnel answering a 5:00 am call on a Friday morning in his district. Workers solved the issue in less than 2 hours and continued to work well into the evening, ensuring water services were not impeded by any leaks.

Council members and attendees also presented several upcoming events across the city this June:

• June 13: Councilwoman Watkins will be handing out free, fresh produce at 218 Boligee St. at 10:00 am
• June 16: Councilman French reminded everyone that there are run-off and Senate elections to vote for
• June 19: Councilman Woodruff announced a Juneteenth Celebration at Boligee Community Center Stadium from 5:00-8:30 pm
• June 20: Councilman French announced a community play on bullying in Demopolis, performed by local youth
• June 27: Councilwoman Logan announced a 250 Years of America Celebration starting with a parade at 3:00 pm and ending with fireworks at R.H. Young Community Center at 8:30 pm

 

The following business items were approved or discussed during the session:

1. Approved the proposal from Shawn Home Improvement, LLC for painting of the gym; Councilwoman Logan opposed. Council confirmed that there is no mold in the building.
2. Approved travel, registration, and meals for Councilwoman Hunter to attend CMO training ALM 2026 in Birmingham, AL, on June 25, 2026
3. Approved travel, registration, and meals for Councilwoman Logan to attend CMO training ALM 2026 in Montgomery, AL, on July 30, 2026
4. Approved travel, registration, and meals for Chief Kendrick Howell to attend a Conference in Fort Payne, AL, June 9-12, 2026
5. Approved ARSES/APEAL’s Retiree Longevity Bonus Legislation (Act 2026-608)
6. Discussed intent to re-negotiate Property Use Agreement between the City of Eutaw and the Sixth Days Saddle Club

The next regular session will be held on June 23, 2026, at 5:00 pm. Please urge your fellow citizens to attend and bring any concerns before the council. As Mayor Cockrell stated, the council is eager to “follow up on community engagements for ideas and visions from citizens.”

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Featured Image: Eutaw City Council members at the June 9th regular session (The Democrat media library)