The Greene County Commission met on Monday, March 9, 2026, for its regular monthly meeting. Three commissioners were present for the roll call: Garria Spencer, Chair, Tennyson Smith and Allen Turner. The other two commissioners: Latasha Johnson and Roshonda Summerville arrived late and participated in the meeting when they arrived.
The meeting began with a report from Assistant Engineer Culliver, who asked that the Commission approve a resolution designating Noah’s Way as a county road for repair and maintenance purposes. The road is in District 5, and Commissioner Summerville has been trying for some time to get the road designated as a county road. At the earlier Commission work session, the status of Noah’s Way was discussed. The Commissioners decided to send the official decision to the Commission meeting, where the resolution was adopted.
Culliver asked the Commission to approve the agreement with ALDOT to pursue the TAP grant to redo the sidewalks on the interior of the Old Courthouse Square, now named for Sheriff Thomas Gilmore. This project will complement the Street Scape project, which was completed last year by the City of Eutaw on the outside perimeter of the Thomas Gilmore Square.
The TAP grant, which totals over a million dollars with an 80% state grant and 20% matching for engineering and construction, will redo all of the interior sidewalks on the square. This will make it easier for the many people who use this pathway to exercise and stay healthy.
The third item on the agenda, which dealt with approving a contract for a Water Park Administration and Engineering firm to help design a “splash pad for children,” was tabled.
The Commission approved travel for the Engineer and Assistant Engineer to attend a training conference on May 5 and 6 at Perdido Beach.
The next item was added to the agenda at the meeting. Legal Counsel Mark Parnell proposed that the commission could establish an account, under the Commission’s General Fund, where individuals and businesses could contribute to support the ambulance service and have their contribution be tax-deductible, since the Commission and the ambulance service are public corporations – providing a service, not trying to be for-profit. The resolution creating a fund for contributions to the ambulance service was approved.
Greene County, Alabama —I, Latasha Jenikco Johnson, proudly announce my candidacy for Greene County Commissioner District #3 in the May 19, 2026 election. Guided by my motto, “Trust God, Do Good,” I bring proven leadership, faith-based values, and a lifetime of service to my campaign.
I previously served the citizens of Eutaw as both a City Councilwoman and Mayor, where I worked to strengthen local government operations, support community development, and advocate for residents. My experience in municipal leadership gives me firsthand knowledge of budgeting, infrastructure planning, and community engagement.
I earned my Associate Degree from Shelton State Community College, Bachelor’s Degree from University of West Alabama, and am a Licensed Practical Nurse through Herzing University. My background in healthcare reflects my heart for service and advocacy for families.
I am the proud daughter of Annie Davis Polk Johnson and the late Major Johnson, an active member of New Peace Missionary Baptist Church, serves as Greene County District Association Youth Advisor, is a member of Order of the Eastern Star, St. John Beauty Chapter #735, and is active in the Greene County Usher Alliance.“As a former Mayor and Councilwoman, I understand how government decisions impact everyday people, “My motto, Trust God, Do Good, guides every decision I make. Greene County deserves leadership rooted in faith, transparency, and action.”
My campaign priorities include:
Economic Growth & Job Development – Expanding opportunities and supporting local businesses.
Infrastructure & Public Services – Improving roads, utilities, and county resources.
Public Safety & Communities Health- Supporting first responders and promoting wellness. Fiscal Responsibility & Transparency- Ensuring that county funds are managed wisely and decision – making is open and accountable. Youth & Community Engagement- Investing in future generations and building strong partnerships. Greene County has tremendous potential. With experience, faith, and a servant’s heart, I am ready to continue serving and working for every resident of this county.
Greene County’s Historic community and neighbors gathered on a chilly morning at the Activity Center in Eutaw for a breakfast prepared by local volunteers. The comforting, southern spread preceded a celebration at William M. Branch Courthouse to honor the love and life of Dr. King this past Monday.
The event was not only a celebration but also a reminder that Dr. King was a servant at the heart of his actions. The impact of his efforts persists today because of his sacrifices for the community, his help to others, and his leadership with love.
At breakfast, Eutaw’s mayor, Corey Cockrell, humbly addressed the crowd with reverence for those seated with him. Former Union Mayor Lodyleetta J. Wabbington was also present to give her own greetings at the courthouse. Wabbington gave remarks calling Dr. King “our drum major for justice,” describing him as a man of nonviolence, great integrity, and justice. She also gave a brief biography of Dr. King’s origins and academic history, highlighting his bachelor’s degree from Morehouse and his doctorate from Boston University.
The celebrations had greetings delivered by a variety of individuals, including African Americans who contributed to Eutaw’s grassroots movements and previous governmental leaders. One such man was William Branch Jr., son of the courthouse’s namesake. He retold an impactful story of his father helping a white man who came to their doorstep in search of water. William Branch gave the man water and food, despite his unfriendly tone. He believed his father had a spirit that operated in love and grace.
Community Chairman Garria Spencer then began his remarks by recounting the purpose of this historic community. Every hand involved with the construction of the buildings was an African American man or woman. The strategic placement of the buildings helped increase African American voting participation. Spencer fought to have the building named after Branch because of his kindness and love shown to those around him, much like Dr. King.
Latasha Johnson, the second African American female mayor and former mayor of Eutaw, also spoke on love in leadership. “Love is an action word,” she stated as she recalled the leadership of Dr. King, “We have got to come together in love.”
Special guest and lifelong activist Attorney John Due, age 91, recounted the struggles that he and his late wife, Patricia Stephens Due, endured for their nonviolent, direct actions. Patricia pioneered many nonviolent tactics that Dr. King later piloted, such as sit-ins and the Tallahassee bus boycotts. She was well known for her involvement in the Florida bus boycotts and for leading students in nonviolent protests. He ended his speech with a call to action for young people to carry on the struggle for freedom in America.
Reverend Dr. Kevin Cockrell attended as the keynote speaker of the event. Much like Dr. King, he is well educated and serves his community. “We’ve been waiting too long…” he stated during his sermon, “Small communities such as ours are struggling to keep an adequate health facility’s doors open.” He warns that the current generation may be sleeping through a revolution, comparing the lack of action to Rip Van Winkle’s sleep. Cockrell concluded his sermon with another warning, this time against division in the heart that spreads into the community.
After the closing remarks, Spiver also offered the microphone to anyone in attendance. John Zippert, owner of The Democrat, recited some of Dr. King’s sermon “The Drum Major’s Instinct” regarding a posture of service.
“You don’t have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.” Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., 1968
Spiver concluded his remarks by stating, “Everyone can help other people… That’s what we’re celebrating here today.”
An almost endless stream of warm recognitions for the city’s “Godly Men” and “Godly Women” were presented by event coordinator and local activist, Spiver Gordon. The list of men and women ranged from church members to city officials. Spiver acknowledged their sacrifices to serve in any capacity they were able. Eutaw’s community keeps reminding us that the best way to honor Dr. King is to lead with love and have kindness for others in our hearts.
Citizens and neighbors of Greene County are putting aside biases not only to honor the legacy of Dr. King, but also to strive for unity in their own community. While the furnace of justice within these men and women still burns, they are ready to pass on the fight for justice to the youth of today. There was also a program on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at the New Peace Baptist Church. Elder Spiver Gordon, brought nearly 100 Greene County High School students to an educational seminar on Black history and the importance of standing up for justice and equality. The newly selected Superintendent for Greene County, Dr. Timothy Thurmond, spoke to the students before the seminar discussion began. Student participation with the speakers, Elder Gordon and the Interim Superintendent, Darryl Aikerson, made for an enjoyable event where everyone learned about the importance of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s legacy.
Please be sure to vote in city elections Next Tuesday, August 26th.
Next Tuesday is an important day for all the municipalities of Greene County. On Tuesday, August 26, 2025, the residents of Eutaw, Forkland, Boligee and Union have city elections to elect a Mayor and City Council members. This is your chance to vote for your local officials. This is your chance to influence the policies and future direction of your local communities. This is your chance to democratically participate to vote for those who will operate your city, set your water, sewer and garbage bills, zone areas you live in for future development, provide more recreation and activities for youth, respond to natural disasters like tornados, hurricanes, flood and other things. Instead of sitting on your couch and complaining about those in politics, here is your chance to go and vote and decide who will be making the decisions and spending tax monies, closest to you, for the next four years. The Publishers of the Greene County Democrat, who live in Eutaw, have been talking to the candidates, reviewing their positions on issues and problems of concern. We make the following recommendations: For Mayor of Eutaw, we support the current mayor, LATASHA JOHNSON for re-election. There are three candidates in this race, the current Mayor, Latasha Johnson, has done a good job in her four years as mayor, we think she should continue and will do more for the residents of Eutaw in the coming four years. Mayor Johnson was able to develop a budgeting process for city revenues and expenses, had a clean audit in fiscal year 2023-24, raised over $9 million dollars, in grants, that did not require matching, to improve and update the Water and Sewer System for Eutaw and Boligee. Mayor Johnson was able to complete the Streetscape project to beautify the sidewalks on the outside of the Courthouse Square. One of her opponents, on the County Commission, voted against providing its share of the matching funds for this project. Mayor Johnson had to borrow funds to complete the project. In District 1, we support challenger KE’UNDRA COX, who will bring a youth perspective to the City Council, coupled with six years of leadership training in the Air Force. In District 2, the incumbent JONATHAN WOODRUFF, should be re-elected for a full term. We do not agree with him all the time but at least he studies the materials and generally takes a responsible position on the issues. In District 3, the incumbent TRACIE HUNTER is unopposed and will be re-elected. In District 4, we endorse LORENZO FRENCH for this position because of his experience and knowledge of city facilities from running the Robert H. Young Community Center and trying to provide more recreational opportunities for young people. In District 5, we endorse CARRIE LOGAN, based on her experience and dedication with the Eutaw Area Chamber of Commerce. We also feel that there should be some representation for white residences of the city, on the City Council, which Ms. Logan will provide. Her opponent Suzette Powell did a good job in her appointed time on the City Council, but we feel Ms. Logan’s election will be in the best long-term interest of the city.
Special to the Democrat by John Zippert, Co-Publisher
The Eutaw Area Chamber of Commerce held a Political Forum on Saturday, August 2nd, on the lawn of the old Greene County Courthouse in Eutaw. The forum was for candidates running in the August 26, 2026’s Eutaw Municipal elections. Over a hundred people turned out to hear the candidate’s views and answers to questions posed by the voters. All three candidates for Mayor of Eutaw, incumbent Latasha Johnson, Corey Cockrell and Tyrone Atkins were present. Most of the candidates for Eutaw City Council in Districts 1 to 5 were also in attendance to give their platform and views. Mayor Latasha Johnson, in her opening comments said, “ I love the City of Eutaw, and I have lived here all of my life. I have worked as Mayor for unity and progress. When I came into office in November 2022, the city’s finances were in bad shape. With help from a financial advisor, we developed a budget and began regular annual audits. We borrowed $500,000 for needed vehicles and equipment. That loan will be paid in full in September and we can borrow funds again for equipment and road maintenance which are needed.” Johnson, continued, “ We have received $9 million in state and Federal grants, with no matching requirements, based on our audits and financial system, to upgrade our water and sewer system, along with Boligee. We also received grant funding from the state to re-pave Highway 14 coming into the city and for the TAP- Streetscape project for sidewalks around the old Courthouse Square.” Corey Cockrell, who is currently a County Commissioner for District 3, said “I am the best candidate for Mayor based on my work on the County Commission and in community.” Cockrell, who is also a full time teacher and head football coach at Eutaw High School, passed out a sheet showing $19 million in road work projects the Commission got funded during his tenure on the County Commission. Cockrell said he was hardworking holding community events and cock-outs in the community to listen to the voters. He said, ‘I will promote jobs and housing for people in the city; and I will correct the financial problems of the city by getting more grants and revenues.” Tyrone Atkins, the third candidate for Mayor said, “ Not much has changed in Eutaw since 1995. Too many empty storefronts downtown. The city officials are not dealing with the everyday problems of people in finding jobs, shopping at one grocery store with high prices and lacking recreation for the children and young people. That is why young people are leaving Eutaw, as soon as they graduate high school and not coming back.” There was also a spirited debate among the candidates for Eutaw City Council positions. Tracey Hunter, incumbent candidate in District 3, is unopposed. She spoke briefly about her intentions to continue serving and developing more programs for youth in the community. Two candidates for District 1, Ke’Undra Cox and incumbent Valarie Watkins, both spoke and answered questions. Watkins said, “I am not going to make a lot of promises. I am running on my platform of honesty, integrity and transparency. I have helped to deal with an abandoned house on Roebuck and other places around the city. I have pushed for speed bumps for the safety of children in the neighborhoods. I want to cure some of the financial problems of the city. We have too many people paying their water bills late. We have too many city workers for our budget.” Cox said, “ I have returned to Eutaw after six years in the Air Force learning leadership skills. I am one of the youngest people running and I want to bring the perspective of young people to the Council. We have the potential to do better, and I want to help the city to serve young people so they will not move away but stay here to live and work.” In District 2, incumbent Jonathan Woodruff Jr. and Maurice Walton were present, Charles Naylor, Jr. was in the hospital and could not attend. Woodruff said, “ I will continue to work to improve infrastructure. I will work with a servant spirit and represent my district as well as the entire city. I will work to keep us within our financial commitments in the budget. Walton said, “I will work as a team member with the other council members and the mayor to make Eutaw a better city for all of its citizens. I will work to expand recreational opportunities for youth, beatification and improvement of our city, and recruiting new businesses and jobs.” In District 4, incumbent Larrie Coleman was not present because of a previous commitment. Sarah D. Brewer stated, “ I want to improve the infrastructure – too many potholes and exposed culverts; we need to fix the water system – water pressure is low, and the quality of water is often undrinkable. We need to be transparent with the finances, have regular audits and cooperation among the mayor and the council members.” In answer to questions on her vision for the city, she said, “ Build it and they will come, referring to infrastructure development.” Lorenzo French, another candidate for District 4, said” I will work to restore trust and accountability in the city council. I will work for more civic engagement by all people. Having worked at the Robert H. Young Community Center, I know the needs for more activities for our youth. You must love the place you live in – and I love Eutaw.” In District 5, the incumbent Suzette Powell, was absent due to a prior family commitment with her grandchildren. Carrie Logan, the only White candidate for City Council, and other candidate for District 5, said, “I have lived in Eutaw for the past thirty years and have volunteered with the Chamber of Commerce, my church, the Garden Club and others to improve the image of the city. We must improve our infrastructure and work with other governmental agencies, such as the County Commission and Industrial Development Authority to make things better for all.” The election is less than three weeks away, on Tuesday, August 26,2025. If a runoff is needed, in races where one candidate does not get a majority (50% or more) of the vote, it will be held on Tuesday, September 23rd. The last day to register to vote for the August 26th election is August 19, 2025. Absentee voting is going on now until August 19, 2025, to get a mail ballot or walk-in to vote. For more information, contact the city election managers, at City Hall, phone 205-372-4212.
The Robert H. Young Community Center was dedicated on Saturday, May 4, 2024. The community center is named for the long-time principal of the former Carver School, which was purchased from the Greene County Board of Education by the City of Eutaw in 2018.
Mayor of Eutaw, Latasha Johnson, assisted by Valerie Watkins, City Council District 1 member conducted the dedication ceremony. Mayor Johnson said she was proud of the efforts of the City of Eutaw to renovate and develop the R. H. Young Community Center.
“This center houses offices for the Extension Service. It has served as an incubator for small businesses, it was the office for FEMA tornado relief and many other programs. We have used the gymnasium for community meetings, job fairs, health fairs, funerals, birthday parties, family reunions and many other purposes including as a storm shelter,” said Mayor Johnson.
The family of the late Robert H. Young were present, including his wife, Carolyn Young, who writes a weekly column for the Greene County Democrat, Also, present were son, daughter-in-law and past students of the Youngs, who taught and administrated at the Carver School.
Members of the Tuscaloosa Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity, of which Young was a member, attended the dedication ceremony and pledged to support the programmatic, construction and maintenance needs of the community center, going forward, in memory of Robert H. Young. Mayor Johnson said the City of Eutaw was searching for grants to improve the community center and welcome aid from residents and others concerned that the city has a usable and comfortable community center facility.
On Tuesday afternoon, April 25, 2023, Mr. Tony Rice, a Eutaw City employee, lost his life as he and co-workers attempted to repair water/sewer lines in the William M. Branch Heights subdivision. Rice and other city workers were helping dig a hole at the community center in Eutaw when it collapsed, prompting a multi-agency rescue effort Tuesday night. According to the Eutaw Ambulance service this was the scene of a heavy technical rescue. Reportedly two other workers were injured requiring medical attention. Seemingly the City of Eutaw nor the County had adequate equipment to conduct a successful rescue when the indecent occurred. The Tuscaloosa Fire and Rescue Team was called in to assist with its equipment. After 4:00 a.m. Wednesday morning, the body of the 46 year-old city worker was recovered. The following statement was released by Eutaw City Mayor, Latasha Johnson. “The City of Eutaw is saddened at the loss of a hard worker and great friend. Tony Rice was a dedicated worker who has served the City of Eutaw for many years. Our public works employees are first responders who’s daily responsibilities are to maintain public infrastructure like roads and utilities. No one ever wants to have to deal with a situation like this, and no one ever thinks it will happen to them. Over the next several days there will be more questions than answers as we move through all of the official processes and also deal with heavy hearts and sadness at a loss of someone who’s close to you. We will forever miss Tony’s smiling face and energy. We would ask for your thoughts and prayers during this time as we are all grieving. Out of respect for the family, out of concern for the rest of the Team Eutaw family, and due to the nature of the circumstances we are not going to be able to provide additional comments at this time. “
On a bright and sunny Monday, November 2, 2020, the new Mayor of Eutaw, Latasha Johnson, and five City Council members were sworn-in to their new positions for a four-year term. The Investiture Ceremony took place, starting at Noon, with masks and social distancing out doors on the Old Courthouse lawn. 300 family members, friends, guests and citizens formed the crowd to welcome in these new city office holders. Former City Councilman Joe Lee Powell served as Master of Ceremonies. Councilman LaJeffrey Carpenter gave a welcome. Several Greene County pastors, including Rev. Calvin Finch, Rev. Anthony Johnson, Rev. Edward Culbert and Rev. Randy Miller read scriptural passages from the Old and New Testament. Several solos were sung by Donald Young, Rev. Joe Nathan Webb and Kendrick Howell. Mollie Rowe read a poem about the life and challenges of the new Mayor. City Judge Josh Swords swore in the five new Eutaw City Council members as a group. Each Council member addressed the assembled group before the swearing in. Ms. Valerie Watkins of District No. 1 said she planned to work in unity and love with the new Mayor and council members. Tracey Hunter of District 3 said she wanted to work together with others in city government. She committed herself to work for transparency, unity and accountability with the other Council members. Larrie Coleman, District 4 councilman thanked his family and voters for their support. Jacqueline Stewart of District 5 said she was honored to serve and would have to begin to look at the problems of the city through the eyes of others and make decisions in accordance with the needs of others. Mayor Latasha Johnson was sworn-in by District Judge Lillie Osborne and gave some remarks. She said that she hoped to work together with the other council members and work through difficulties facing the city. She said she was humbled, hopeful and proud to serve the City of Eutaw. She said that she was ready to work together with the council members in unity. She asked for the assistance and prayers of all in the city. Rev. A. B. Griffin of New Peace Baptist Church and the Mayor’s pastor gave some remarks to offer a charge to the Mayor and City Council. He had three main themes: unity, maintain peace and be a servant leader offering support to others. Sheriff Joe Nathan Benison also gave remarks at the ceremony after which a lunch was served. City Council Organizational Meeting The City of Eutaw Council held its opening organizational meeting at 2:30 PM at the Carver School Gymnasium. The Council adopted Roberts Rules of Order as their procedural guide. They approved the employment of Attorney Zane Willingham as City Attorney and City Prosecutor and agreed to pay him for both roles. They appointed Kathy Bir as City Clerk and Joe Lee Powell, as Assistance City Clerk. The Council approved District 2 Councilman LaJeffrey Carpenter as Mayor Pro Tem, to serve in place of the Mayor when she is not available to participate in actions and activities. The Council reaffirmed its meetings to be held at 6:00 PM on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month. The Council approved a list of standing committees, their chairpersons and members. Josh Swords was reappointed as City Judge and Bennie Abrams was appointed as Fire Chief. Tommy Johnson, a former Eutaw City policeman and Sheriff’s Deputy was named to serve as Chief of Police as the current Chief Derrick Coleman along with several other police officers resigned effective October 30. Office Kendrick Howell was named Assistant Police Chief. The Council tabled action on several positions until it could prepare and review its fiscal budget, to determine if these positions were necessary and affordable, including Director of Parks and Recreation, Building Inspector and General Superintendent of Roads, Streets and Water. The Council agreed that Latasha Johnson, Mayor, LaJeffrey Carpenter, Mayor Pro Tem, Councilwoman Tracey Hunter and Kathy Bir, City Clerk be check signatories of the city bank accounts with Merchants and Farmers and Citizens Trust Bank. The Council approved a motion to allow the Mayor to sign a three-year consulting agreement with Water Management Services to correct problems with billing and physical facilities of the city water system. Former Mayor Raymond Steele refused to execute this contract and when the Council approved the contract and had it signed by Carpenter, refused to allow the consultants to do their work in the City’s Water Department. Mayor Latasha Johnson said she spoke with Kathie Horne of Water Management Associates and agreed to sign a new contract and get them started working to correct the problems of the City Water Department. At an earlier meeting, the old City Council accepted the resignations of Ruthie Thomas, Water Clerk and Martina Henley, Court Clerk, effective November 3, 2020, as well as the police resignations. At this meeting, the outgoing City Council also approved an on-premises liquor license for John’s, located at 100 Main Street in Eutaw, Alabama. They also approved various procedures for changing locks on city property and return of city property and vehicles by outgoing officials. At the end of the organizational meeting, City Judge Josh Swords swore in Tommy Johnson as the city’s new Chief of Police.
The Eutaw City Council met twice in the past two weeks on January 10 and January 14, to resolve differences, pay pressing bills and deal with problems with the City’s water system. The City Council members and Mayor Steele were at an impasse at the Friday, January 10th special called meeting to find a way to pay critical outstanding bills before vendors, like Alabama Power Company, A.T. &T, water chemical companies, and other essential providers, cut off supplies and services. Council members: Latasha Johnson, Sheila Smith, LaJeffrey Carpenter and Joe Lee Powell were concerned about authorizing the use of bingo funds to pay bills until they received assurance from Mayor Steele that the roads in King Village would be resurfaced; other policies passed by the Council, such as the “no acceptance of cash as payment for city services” were implemented; and the Water Department operations and billing were corrected. Mayor Steele said the special street repair funds were for Branch Heights and that the streets in King Village “were not in as bad a shape as other streets in the City and did not need repair at this time.” No agreement or consensus was reached and the January 10 meeting was adjourned without progress. The Mayor and the Council agreed to a work session on January 14 with technical support from Ralph Banks, President of Merchants and Farmers Bank and a former city council member, to try to work toward a compromise. The January 14 meeting included a work session and a regular meeting. The Mayor and Council adopted a resolution indicating that up to $300,000 in bingo funds could be withdrawn from the dedicated account for street repairs to be transferred to the General Fund for the payment of pressing outstanding bills, provided that the City would proceed to advertise and take bids for resurfacing the streets and roads in King Village, to be paid for with gasoline tax fund accounts. The City established a special street repair fund, with funds from bingo, provided through the Sheriff’s Department for street repairs in Branch Heights and King Village. The City then used gasoline tax funds to resurface the roads in Branch Heights, which is a permissible and legal use of gas tax funds. The Mayor then received approval from the City Council to transfer funds from the special street repair fund to the General Fund to pay bills. The resolution passed in the January 14th meeting made a similar budgetary adjustment to pay critical bills and still move forward with paving the roads in King Village. The Mayor and several council members indicated that they had discussed these steps with Sheriff Joe Benison and he was supportive. The Council also asked about problems with operations and billing in the Water Department. The Mayor insisted that all problems with digital water meters had been resolved and that the billing problems were being corrected. There was a disagreement over the extent of revenue shortfall from the Water Department. The Mayor said the shortfall was in the range of $40,000 for the past year while council members set the shortfall at significantly higher – above $300,000 by their estimates. The Council agreed to have a working session on February 18 with Kathy Horne from the Alabama Rural Water Association to discuss improvements to the water system. Mayor Steele said he was “reluctant to turn the water system over to someone outside the city”. Council members pointed out that there suggestions and solutions were never implemented by the Mayor. Many in the audience said they received the same water bills each month even though their usage was different at different times of the year. Ralph Banks pointed out that the garbage charge on the monthly water bills was $15 but that Waste Management was charging the city $17 a month for each garbage bin they were servicing. “The City should not continue to subsidize garbage collection for its residents,” said Banks. In other actions, the City Council: • tabled action to purchase new computers for the Water Department, until after the meeting with Kathy Horne in February; • approved a contract for Alabama Power to store power poles at the parking lot of the National Guard Armory, for which it will receive $1,000 a month compensation. • approved a Severe Weather Preparedness Sales Tax holiday for February 21-23, 2020.
The Eutaw City Council met Thursday, December 19, 2019 to complete business left over from a meeting on December 10, 2019. The City Council tries to meet on December 17 but failed to muster a quorum for that meeting. The Mayor and all City Council members were present at the Special Meeting on December 19, 2019. The Council took up the issue of a contract with Greene County Foster and Adoptive Parents Association for an office at the Carver School Community Center. The original proposal in the contract was for a $300 rent, which the group and some members of the Council felt was too high. Councilwomen Latasha Johnson moved that the contract with the Greene County Foster and Adoptive Parent Association be for $100 a month rent. Mayor Steele and Council members pointed out that there needs to be a uniform policy for the rental and use of the Carver facility so that all organizations needing space will be treated fairly. The Council took up a proposal to grant each city employee including police officers a one time pay increase of $200 to be paid by the General Fund and a special additional payment of $300 for each police officer to be paid by the DARE fund. This resolution was approved unanimously by the Council. The Council reviewed a resolution for a maintenance agreement with the Alabama Department of Transportation regarding roadway lighting at Exit 40 on Interstate Highway 59/20. ALDOT will provide the lighting, which will enhance safety at the exit where there is significant truck traffic, related to the Love’s Truckstop. The City will have to assist in maintaining the lights once they are constructed. The Council voted to approve the resolution. The mayor in his remarks urged the Council to pay necessary bills to avoid cut off of service, equipment and supplies to the City. Neither Mayor Steele nor the Council members raised the issue of problems with the city water system billing and finances. This matter was left to be considered and decided in future meetings in the next year.
