Saturday morning’s featured speaker was Rick Pate, who is running for Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries. / Nick Griffin

CULLMAN - It’s campaign season, which means the monthly Cullman County Republican Party breakfasts are even more popular than normal, and Saturday’s was no exception.  Judge Terri Willingham Thomas of the Alabama Court of Civil Appeals kicked things with a brief statement, followed by Michelle Thomason who is running for a seat on the Court of Civil Appeals. Cullman County Probate Judge Tammy Brown also made an announcement, saying that after receiving several requests, all 2018 election results will be counted and publicized at the Cullman Civic Center, instead of the Cullman County Courthouse.

Rich Anderson, candidate for Alabama’s Court of Criminal Appeals and Alabama Rep. Tim Wadsworth, R-Arley also spoke for a few moments in the lead-up to Cullman County Sheriff Matt Gentry taking the podium. Gentry is running unopposed for re-election.  

“Four years ago, when we ran for office we started with a mission and a vision, and our mission was to return the office of the sheriff back to the people, and that’s something that I believe in. We live in the greatest county in the state of Alabama, and it’s because of our citizens, but that mission has to be executed,” Gentry said. “We’ve done that through our citizen’s academy, through our firearms classes, we just finished conducting a relationship with 51 churches in our community to teach them how to make a safety plan for their church. We’ve taken over 500 people to the range, we are on our sixth citizen’s academy class and there’s no greater tool than law enforcement joining with the community, so you can show them what law enforcement is about, who we are, what we deal with day in, day out.”

Gentry also touched on how Cullman’s growth will affect his department and how they’re planning ahead.

“Most people don’t know, but we’re projected to grow 15-20 percent by 2025. In law enforcement we have to prepare for that growth because when we grow there’s economic stability, but there’s also criminals that will come into the community, and that is a top priority for us in enforcing the law,” Gentry said. “We have started our very first (Sheriff's Youth Leadership Academy) for the sheriff’s office. We take young leaders because guess what, our children are our most valuable resource. They are going to be the next leaders in our community, they’re going to be the next people sitting in this room. We’ve graduated two classes and every class has grown over 50 percent. It is amazing to see these young leaders.”

Saturday morning’s featured speaker was Rick Pate, who is running for Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries. Pate has been the mayor of Lowndesboro, Alabama since 1997 and is the owner and operator of Pate Landscape. He is the vice chairman of the Lowndes County Republican Party and serves on the ALGOP executive committee. Pate is involved with several organizations such as Rotary International, Associated General Contractors, Alabama Agribusiness Council, Alabama Nursery and Landscape Association and Alabama Wildlife Federation. He is a member of the Montgomery Chamber of Commerce, the Business Council of Alabama, and United Way of the River Region.

Pate used his time at the podium to make his case to Cullman’s Republican voters but also acknowledged the quality of the people he has been sharing the campaign trail with.

“These are really good people running for office, I’ve gotten to know Terri and Michelle and Rich, but I haven’t really met a person as we travel these same paths that I don’t respect. Now I don’t know what happens to them when they get elected, but as candidates they’re awfully nice people and they’re working awful hard and I don’t think you can go wrong with almost any of them,” Pate joked.

“I’m the mayor of a little town, I don’t know if you have towns that are incorporated that are smaller than 107 (people), but I will brag on it. We’ve got a water system that has twice been voted the second-best tasting water in the state of Alabama. We’ve got a cash reserve of about $1.2 million, that works to more than $11,150 per citizen of the town, and you take our water system and our assets we probably carry about $40,000 in assets per citizen which tripled any other town in the state of Alabama,” said Pate. “I tell my town council we operate under two rules. The first rule is you don’t have to agree with me to be my friend and the second rule is that you don’t have to be disagreeable to disagree. We don’t vote unanimously on everything and we don’t agree on everything, but I don’t think I’ve ever heard a voice raised or anything said bitter, and when you come at it with the assumption that people are well-intentioned, you can get a lot accomplished.”

The Cullman County Republican Party will hold its next meeting on April 7. Breakfast will be served at 7:30 before the meeting begins at 8. The guest speakers for next month’s event will be Alabama Attorney General candidate Troy King and Alabama State Treasurer candidate John McMillan.

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Three little cowboys look on at this weekend’s Stars and Stripes Rodeo. / W.C. Mann

CULLMAN - On Friday and Saturday evenings, the West Point High School band boosters hosted their annual Stars and Stripes Rodeo at the Cullman County Agricultural Center.

Said West Point Band Director Ty Parker, “This is our West Point Warrior Band’s 35th annual Stars and Stripes Rodeo.  The band has been in charge of the rodeo for, obviously, 35 years.  A few years ago, it kind of dipped down with attendance and overall profits from the past years, but this is our second year with our treasurer Josh Sellers in charge, and it’s back to what it used to be: huge crowds, a great fun family atmosphere for this Cullman area and surrounding areas to come and enjoy a good indoor rodeo.”

Sellers spent more three months planning the rodeo, securing sponsors and a new stock contractor for this year’s event, along with riding herd on a small herd of student and adult volunteers.  His efforts paid off, with 106 riders, ropers, wrestlers and mutton busters (sheep riders as young as 2 years old.  Yes, they really did!) signing up to compete.  Saturday’s crowd filled the stands, and Friday’s attendance was also reported as high.

Said Sellers, “I just appreciate all the help and the hard work that my (band) parents have put in, and my students.  Last night (Friday), we were trying to count down money when it was over, and I come out of the room and our bleachers was spotless.  These kids really got in here and busted it last night and really, really cleaned up and showed out.  I just want to thank them and thank the parents that stood behind me and the organization.  And our band director (Parker) and our principal (Heith Yearwood).  He come in here last night to support us.  I really appreciate all them.”

Young cowboys and cowgirls tried their hands at mutton busting, while older competitors vied for prize money and bragging rights in bareback and saddle bronc riding, bull riding, barrel racing, breakaway roping, calf roping, team roping and steer wrestling.

It wouldn’t be a rodeo without a pageant and a queen, and the Stars and Stripes Rodeo was no exception:

• Tiny Miss West Point Rodeo - Makenna Deridder
• Petite Miss West Point Rodeo - Molly Caudle
• Little Miss West Point Rodeo - Caroline Wilson
• Junior Miss West Point Rodeo - Ellie Lorrance
• Senior Miss West Point Rodeo - Allie Clark
• Rachel Jackson of Jackson, Mississippi was named 2018 West Point Stars and Stripes Rodeo Queen.

All about the arts

West Point has a rapidly growing performing arts program, but the rodeo is specifically for the West Point Warrior Band and is the group’s largest fundraising event.  According to Parker, this year’s proceeds will go toward the purchase of new band uniforms, paying off debts from the previous marching season and establishing a fund to prepare for the next marching season.

Shared Parker, “We have so many students involved this year, that we’re looking at possibly developing an arts wing at West Point.  I found this out yesterday.  It would have a small theater, a dance studio, an instrumental rehearsal room, all in the school building.  So, we’re trying to really add a space for the number of students we have involved in theater, instrumental music, visual art and in dance, too.  We have over 200 students involved.  We had 80 last year (Parker’s first year), and now we have over 200.”

West Point Theatre will be presenting “Beauty and the Beast” this Thursday through Sunday, March 8-11, and on April 26-29, Parker will be directing “Camp Rock,” one of the state’s first multi-high school theater productions with students from across the county system.  

“Beauty and the Beast”

West Point Theatre exclusive

Mar. 8-11, 2018

Fairview High School, 841 Welcome Road, Fairview

“Camp Rock”

Countywide production sponsored by West Point Theatre and Fairview Theater Works

Apr. 26-29, 2018

Fairview High School, 841 Welcome Road, Fairview

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

CULLMAN - With Cullman Regional’s expansion projects nearing completion, the hospital is adding more career opportunities in nursing. Nurses who are interested should join Cullman Regional on Saturday, March 17 for an RN Recruitment Open House.

Nurses who attend the open house will have the opportunity to meet with directors and hiring managers from several departments including the Critical Care Unit, In-Patient Services, Float Pool and Emergency Department. New hire benefits include tuition reimbursement, outstanding team environment, competitive pay and benefits package, free parking, free on-site fitness facility and wellness rewards program.

The RN Recruitment Open House will be held on Saturday, March 17 from 8 a.m. to noon in the Governor’s Room, located in Professional Office Building 2 on the Cullman Regional Campus (1912 Alabama Highway 157, Cullman, AL 35058).

For more information, email Cullman Regional’s recruiter at recruiting@cullmanregional.com.

Cullman attorney Randy Hames, shown here in his mugshot from Monday, March 5, 2018, has been charged with two counts of second-degree human trafficking. / Cullman County Sheriff's Office

CULLMAN - Local attorney Randy Allan Hames, 75, was arrested today and charged with two counts of second-degree human trafficking, a Class B felony. The new charges stem from the circumstances that led to Hames being arrested back on Feb. 22 for two counts of second-degree stalking and two counts of promoting prostitution, misdemeanor charges, said a spokesman for the Cullman County Sheriff's Office (CCSO).

Hames was out on bond and practicing law inside the Cullman County Courthouse when he was arrested Monday. He has already made bond on the new charges. Bond was $15,000 property for each count of human trafficking.

Kayla Carreker and Tomeka Bartlett have accused Hames of requesting sex for rent payments. The two lived at Hames Trailer Park, owned by the accused. Carreker and Bartlett also accuse Hames of making crude sexual remarks to them.

The CCSO spokesman said the Cullman County District Attorney's Office decided to move forward with the human trafficking charges after reviewing the case and speaking with the victims and others. He said the warrant was issued today, and Hames was picked up in the courthouse.

According to the Alabama Criminal Code, Section 13A-6-153:

(a) A person commits the crime of human trafficking in the second degree if:

(1) A person knowingly benefits, financially or by receiving anything of value, from participation in a venture or engagement for the purpose of sexual servitude or labor servitude.

(2) A person knowingly recruits, entices, solicits, induces, harbors, transports, holds, restrains, provides, maintains, subjects, or obtains by any means another person for the purpose of labor servitude or sexual servitude.

(3) A corporation, or any other legal entity other than an individual, may be prosecuted for human trafficking in the second degree for an act or omission only if an agent of the corporation or entity performs the conduct which is an element of the crime while acting within the scope of his or her office or employment and on behalf of the corporation or entity, and the commission of the crime was either authorized, requested, commanded, performed, or within the scope of the person's employment on behalf of the corporation or entity or constituted a pattern of conduct that an agent of the corporation or entity knew or should have known was occurring.

(4) Any person who obstructs, or attempts to obstruct, or in any way interferes with or prevents the enforcement of this section shall be guilty of a Class A misdemeanor.

(b) Human trafficking in the second degree is a Class B felony.

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

CULLMAN - Below are the arrests reported for March 2-4. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.

GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear

Cullman County Sheriff’s Office

Barnett, Jonathan Wayne, 46

• third-degree domestic violence

Beard, William Joseph, 55

• harassment

Boone, Timothy Aaron, 23

• FTA- altered/mutilated DL
• FTA- driving while suspended
• FTA- failure to signal

Conrad, Jacob Samuel, 21

• DUI- .08 BAC or greater

Cooper, Joseph Dewayne, 34

• FTA- driving while revoked

Cribbs, Brandon Dale, 37

• third-degree domestic violence

Gunter, Roman Dewayne, 26

• FTA- 20 days to register vehicle
• FTA- driving while suspended (2 counts)
• FTA- proof of liability insurance required

Hollis, Robert Lee Jr., 40

• FTA- nonsupport

Hults, Guy, 32

• possession of prescription medicine
• unlawful possession of a controlled substance

Jordan, Jade Moore, 23

• unlawful possession of a controlled substance

Lee, Betty Brakefield, 68

• defrauding secured creditors

Long, Cameron, 39

• negotiating a worthless negotiable instrument

Lopez-Hernandez, Arturo, 25

• GJ- second-degree assault

Lynn, Skyler Kade, 18

• second-degree unlawful possession of marijuana

Marsh, Shana Melton, 27

• third-degree assault (2 counts)
• third-degree domestic violence

Nunnelley, Jacky Lee, 43

• first-degree receiving stolen property

Peak, Brian Derrick, 48

• third-degree domestic violence- harassment

Pelt, Christine Inez, 40

• unlawful possession of a controlled substance

Quick, Alexander Douglas, 23

• first-degree theft of property

Starks, Jeremy S., 37

• FTA- improper taillights

Sutton, Felicia Leann, 30

• writ of arrest- child support

Taylor, Calvin Heath, 29

• FTA- first-degree criminal trespassing

Willis, Lewis Franklin, 46

• FTA- third-degree domestic violence

Cullman Police Department

Pendleton Cory L., 44

• harassment

Box, Michael W. 19

• unlawful possession or receipt of a controlled substance

Bryant, John C., 19

• second-degree unlawful possession of marijuana
• possession of drug paraphernalia

Bartlett Michael S., 40

• harassment

Hinkle, Kyndall A., 19

• possession of drug paraphernalia

Loyd, Erika R., 42

• FTA- third-degree theft of property

Gunter, Roman D., 26

• FTA- insurance violation
• FTA- driving without a license

Hanceville Police Department

No arrests reported.

Find arrest reports online Monday-Friday at www.CullmanTribune.com.

CULLMAN – “In order to better serve our members, patrons and the community, the Cullman Wellness and Aquatic Center (CWAC) will be expanding its hours of operation effective immediately,” said a press release from Cullman Parks and Recreation on Monday.

CWAC’s fitness center, walking track and basketball gym will be now be open Monday-Friday 4:30 a.m.-11 p.m.; Saturday 6 a.m.-9 p.m.; and Sunday 7 a.m.-7 p.m.

The indoor pool will be open Monday-Thursday 4:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday 4:30 a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturday 6 a.m.-5 p.m.; and Sunday 1 p.m.-6 p.m.

Childcare hours are now Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-7 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

“We hope these changes will allow for members and the community to utilize the facility more within their time schedules,” said the release.

For more information on the CWAC, call 256-775-7946 or visit www.cullmanrecreation.org.

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Good Hope Mayor Jerry Bartlett talks to the Cullman City Council about an incentive plan to re-locate AGCOR Steel to Good Hope.  The plan requires concessions from the City of Good Hope, the City of Cullman and Cullman County. / W.C. Mann

CULLMAN - Good Hope Mayor Jerry Bartlett addressed the Cullman City Council Monday night, requesting that it hold its “772” hearing regarding AGCOR Steel. As The Tribune first reported last week, AGCOR Steel is moving to Good Hope. The Good Hope City Council last Monday night passed a resolution allowing Bartlett to enter an agreement with the company. AGCOR, which will build on 53 acres on Industrial Drive, will be Good Hope’s first manufacturer. Bartlett said the company will add up to 20 new jobs and is expected to have annual sales of $8-$10 million. 

AGCOR Steel chose to relocate in Good Hope from Vinemont, selecting the Cullman County municipality over Gadsden, and made that choice in part based on economic incentives proposed jointly by the City of Good Hope, Cullman County and the City of Cullman, each of which had to hold a public hearing and pass a resolution to move the project forward. The Cullman County Commission last Tuesday set its Amendment 772 hearing date for March 13 to approve the signing of the resolution.

Amendment 772 to the Alabama Constitution, which governs the use of public funds for economic development, reads as follows:

Promotion of Economic and Industrial Development by County Commission.

(a) The governing body of any county, and the governing body of any municipality located therein, for which a local constitutional amendment has not been adopted authorizing any of the following, shall have full and continuing power to do any of the following:

(1) Use public funds to purchase, lease, or otherwise acquire real property, buildings, plants, factories, facilities, machinery, and equipment of any kind, or to utilize the properties heretofore purchased or otherwise acquired, and improve and develop the properties for use as sites for industry of any kind or as industrial park projects, including, but not limited to, grading and the construction of roads, drainage, sewers, sewage and waste disposal systems, parking areas, and utilities to serve the sites or projects.

(2) Lease, sell, grant, exchange, or otherwise convey, on terms approved by the governing body of the county or the municipality, as applicable, all or any part of any real property, buildings, plants, factories, facilities, machinery, and equipment of any kind or industrial park project to any individual, firm, corporation, or other business entity, public or private, including any industrial development board or other public corporation or authority heretofore or hereafter created by the county or the municipality, for the purpose of constructing, developing, equipping, and operating industrial, commercial, research, or service facilities of any kind.

(3) Lend its credit to or grant public funds and things of value in aid of or to any individual, firm, corporation, or other business entity, public or private, for the purpose of promoting the economic and industrial development of the county or the municipality.

(4) Become indebted and issue bonds, warrants which may be payable from funds to be realized in future years, notes, or other obligations, or evidences of indebtedness to a principal amount not exceeding 50 percent of the assessed value of taxable property therein as determined for state taxation, in order to secure funds for the purchase, construction, lease, or acquisition of any of the property described in subdivision (1) or to be used in furtherance of any of the other powers or authorities granted in this amendment. The obligations or evidences of indebtedness may be issued upon the full faith and credit of the county or any municipality or may be limited as to the source of their payment.

According to Bartlett, Vinemont-based AGCOR hoped to remain in Cullman County, but had already chosen a site in Gadsden for relocation.  The economic concession that helped along the decision-making process involved the three entities--the City of Good Hope, the City of Cullman and Cullman County--each giving back to AGCOR one half cent from each dollar the company pays to the County in sales taxes.  Because of the county tax structure, all three receive portions of any sales tax money generated in the county. The total refund of $133,000 per entity will be paid out over the next eight years or until the company is reimbursed for the $400,000 it spent to purchase the property in Good Hope, whichever comes first.  If company sales increase, the payoff will occur sooner.

Bartlett told the council, “We have passed our 772 hearing on the 26th, last Monday night, and the (Good Hope) Council went and passed a resolution authorizing myself to execute the economic development agreement with AGCOR.  And I’m here tonight to personally ask you to move forward with your 772 hearing.”

Council President Garlan Gudger reported to the council that AGCOR’s new facility will allow the company to increase its workforce from 14 to 34, and the company predicts $8-$10 million in annual sales.  Both Bartlett and Cullman Mayor Woody Jacobs wanted to be sure people understood that money being channeled back to AGCOR would not be lifted from any existing fund but drawn from the sales taxes paid by AGCOR itself.

Said Bartlett, “We’re only paying them back out of money that they’re producing.  So, all of this is going to be new money that would have been going to the Gadsden area if we hadn’t kept them here.”

Under Amendment 772, in order to enact an expenditure of public funds to promote industry, a county or municipality must hold a public hearing beforehand and must advertise the hearing to the public for a certain time before that.  The council set a public hearing on the City of Cullman’s part of the 772 project to take place during its meeting on March 26.

After the meeting, Bartlett told The Tribune, “This is the first time we’ve had a plant in the city of Good Hope.  I like to brag about that, but I could not have done this without the City of Cullman, (Cullman Economic Development Agency’s) Dale Greer, and County Economic Development--Cherrie Haney, and the commissioners from Cullman County.  It would not have happened without all of us.”

Other council business

The council heard from Fire Chief Edward Reinhardt that the new fire station on Alabama Highway 157 should open sometime next week.  A definite date for a formal council visit and ribbon-cutting was not set.

The council set another public hearing, this one on April 9, 2018 for an ordinance to adopt the 2015 International Building Code including the companion codes.  The updated code was recommended by both City Planning and Building Director Rick Fulmer and the City Planning Commission.

The council approved two requests:

• from Salim Virani of Five Points Store for a beer and wine off-premises alcohol license at 205 Rosemont Ave. NW, pending approval from the building department and fire department, both of which had indicated issues in the facility which needed to be addressed before they would sign off.
• from Waid Harbison of Cullman Parks and Recreation for a special event permit to hold the annual Strawberry Festival in Depot Park on May 5, 2018 from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m.

The council also approved an ordinance to annex 227 County Road 1403, owned by David and Christine Wiggins, into the city limits of Cullman as an R-1 Residential District.  The council suspended procedural rules to pass the ordinance on its first reading, after the annexation received a favorable recommendation from the City Planning Commission at a meeting earlier in the evening.

Planning Commission

The City of Cullman Planning Commission met before the council meeting, giving a favorable recommendation to the annexation mentioned above, and approving the site plan for a new Cullman Power Board warehouse off Golf Course Road Southwest.

The commission also heard from Gary Scheetz, who lives on Leeman Drive near the Fox Meadow subdivision.  Scheetz challenged the legality of building permits issued for the second phase of development in the subdivision, arguing that a promised public meeting did not take place before those permits were issued.

Building Director Rick Fulmer noted that he had agreed to a meeting before issuing permits, and apologized to Scheetz for the oversight, but countered that, since Fox Meadow is already a recorded subdivision, the one permit that has been issued is still valid, not necessarily requiring a meeting.  Fulmer also addressed certain specific issues concerning the impact of Fox Meadow development on Scheetz’s property, and assured Scheetz that a public hearing will take place concerning those issues, possibly as early as the next planning commission meeting.

The planning commission meets on the first Monday of each month in the Cullman City Hall auditorium at 5:30 p.m.  The Cullman City Council will meet next on Monday, March 26 in the Cullman City Hall auditorium at 7 p.m. The public is invited to attend each meeting.

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Sen. Paul Bussman, R-Cullman is up for re-election this year. Bussman said his main accomplishments have been in economic development, infrastructure and education. If re-elected, he said his focus will be on education. / Tribune file photo

CULLMAN - As the 2018 campaign season gets into full swing, The Tribune spoke with Sen. Paul Bussman, R- Cullman, the incumbent candidate in Alabama Senate District 4, which includes Cullman County. Bussman took a few moments from his busy schedule in Montgomery to answer a few questions about what he’s done in his time in office and what he hopes to accomplish in the future.

What have you encountered or been working on that will affect Cullman County?  Have your plans gone well, and how will what you’re doing now translate into another term?

“Over the last few years, I have been very successful in significant areas that have direct impact on this district.  I have secured several million dollars in grant money for economic development, sewer system upgrades and infrastructure needs.  Through relationships built with ALDOT (the Alabama Department of Transportation), I have been involved in acquiring tens of millions of dollars for road projects, bridge replacement projects and paving projects.  Finding funding to expand our roads and build infrastructure will always be a need and priority.  

“I am most proud of the fact that I have been able to help both the city and county every time they asked for assistance with their grant applications.  In fact, I have likely secured more funds for the entire area than any previous legislator,” said Bussmann.

“For the first time, all the schools in my district have benefitted from educational grant funds. Almost half a million dollars has been fairly distributed to schools throughout this district.  These funds have provided much needed technology upgrades, facility upgrades and structural repairs that were currently not budgeted.  I have also provided funding to replace WWII-era equipment at the Cullman Area Technology Academy. All the schools in the district have important needs. It is essential that their needs be heard and that all our schools get their fair share.”

Bussman continued, “As far as legislation is concerned, I have been very influential in important areas that affect many citizens in my district.  I was very instrumental in the passage of the autism bill to help our families that deal with autism.  This autism legislation will provide treatment that could turn a non-responsive child into a college graduate.  I was also very instrumental in the passage of legislation that allowed a woman to decide how and where to deliver her baby, a basic right for a woman.  

“Education has been another area of intense involvement and I have stood alone in the Senate to make sure our K-12 and community colleges are treated fairly when budgets are determined.  Making sure that K-12 and community colleges don’t fall farther behind is a real concern in the present budgeting process.

“My plans and legislation for this session have gone extremely well.  I have proposed 16 different pieces of legislation this session.  Nine of those have been enacted into law, one is waiting for the governor’s signature to be enacted into law, five have passed the Senate and moved on to the House for their action.  So, all but one of the bills I have led have either been enacted into law or passed by my chamber, the Senate.  I have been able to pass these bills because I clearly identify the needs and issues and successfully explain them to the body. I have also built great relationships with many of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle.”

What will be the main focus of your next term, if you are re-elected?  What do you hope to accomplish?

“The main focus for the next term has to be education.  Over the last few years it has become very clear to me that our schools lack leadership from the State Board of Education,” said Bussman. “There is nobody at the state level that is respected enough to fight for K-12 and our community colleges.  Locally, our school boards are fighting as hard as they can to address these concerns.  But, needless to say, their time and resources are limited.  I have found that K-12 and (Wallace State Community College) are at an extreme disadvantage when it comes to the budgeting process.  Special interest groups have controlled the budgeting process in education for the last 4 years and during those years I have challenged that special interest.  K-12 and community colleges have been cut by tens of millions of dollars over the last few years. I have fought and will continue to fight to bring that money back to K-12 and WSCC.  Our children need and deserve better.”

The final word

“When I decided to run for the Senate,” said Bussman, “I promised the district that I would become part of their community.  Whether it be Cullman, Moulton, Addison, Haleyville, Hamilton or Hackleburg, I promised to be so involved in their community (so) that they would know I cared for them.  

“By traveling more than 13,000 miles per year in the district, I have been actively involved in attracting and securing new industry across this district.  I have helped to prevent the closing of a hospital which would have been devastating for this district.  I have gone to events, schools, businesses, churches and even funerals because that is what the people of my district deserve,” Bussman shared.  

“With all of the district working together, we have come a long way.  There is always more work to be done and I intend to continue our forward movement over the next four years.”

Bussman is being challenged for the District 4 Senate seat by Cullman businessman and Cullman City Council President Garlan Gudger.  Both candidates have steered a diplomatic course to this point and have refrained from making any public comment about their opponent.

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Gov. Ivey signs Executive Order 713 during the “Smart on Safety Initiative” press conference Tuesday in Montgomery. (Photo: Governor’s Office, Jamie Martin)

MONTGOMERY– Gov. Kay Ivey on Tuesday unveiled her “Smart on Safety Initiative,” a plan the governor’s office said is aimed at keeping Alabama’s schoolchildren safe and will aid in enhancing school safety and security in the state.

"In announcing a four-pronged approach to school safety, we will build on the foundation already in place and allow all available state resources to be focused on efforts to keep our children safe," Ivey said. "Ensuring safety in our schools is a bipartisan issue, and we must do all we can to prevent violence and be sure we are ready to respond in the event such violence does occur."

Ivey’s “Smart on Safety Initiative” includes four key elements: Secured Schools, We Know Our Kids, Emergency Operations Plans (EOPs) and the Governor’s Securing Alabama Facilities of Education (SAFE) Council.

Secured Schools: Ivey recognizes that each school’s security needs are unique. Therefore, Alabama will support local school officials as they meet their own safety needs. Ivey supports permitting the Education Advancement and Technology Fund to be used for school security.  (Senate Bill 323)

We Know Our Kids: Schools will intervene in the lives of students who are at risk of harming themselves or others, before they act violently. Schools will be encouraged to identify at-risk students through student engagement and other factors.  

Emergency Operations Plans (EOPs): When a school emergency occurs, school personnel must be able to act immediately before first responders arrive. Schools must work with law enforcement and first responders to provide a coordinated response to emergencies. Each school will continuously update its EOP, and students and school personnel will receive regular training on the EOP.

Governor’s Securing Alabama Facilities of Education (SAFE) Council: During Tuesday’s press conference, Ivey signed Executive Order 713 convening her SAFE Council to implement her school safety priorities. The council will be composed of the Secretary of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, the Secretary of the Office of Information Technology, the Alabama State Superintendent of Education and the Commissioner of the Alabama Department of Mental Health. The SAFE Council will report to the governor by April 30, 2018.

The governor’s “Smart on Safety Initiative” is intended to be a flexible and workable framework which will be added to upon the recommendation of the SAFE Council and others.

Jerome Flanigan, bottom left, has been charged with the September 2016 murder of Leslie Clements, right. Flanigan was taken into custody by the Cullman Police Department on Sunday night, top left. / Nick Griffin

CULLMAN -  A Cullman man was arrested Sunday night, charged with the September 2016 murder of 33-year-old Leslie Clements. Jerome Flanigan, 36, who has been a suspect in the case for some time, was charged with murder, first-degree theft of property and second-degree arson.

Clements’ body was found in an apartment in the 1000 block of Fuller Street, on the southwest side of the city of Cullman, on Friday, Sept. 16, 2016. Authorities declared the death suspicious, and the body was sent to Huntsville for autopsy.

That same day, Flanigan was identified as a person of interest by the Cullman Police Department.

In two bizarre twists to the case, on the day Clements’ body was found, the childhood home of Jerome Flanigan was set on fire in the town of Colony. The Cullman County Sheriff’s Office investigated the fire, which was on County Road 33. 

The next day, Saturday, Sept. 17, 2016, George Lamar Flanigan, then 38, the brother of Jerome Flanigan, was found with a gunshot wound to his abdomen. He was transported by ambulance to Cullman Regional, where he was treated and released. The CPD identified the shooter as Ronald McLaughlin. According to a statement from the CPD, McLaughlin was cooperative with the police and the shooting appeared to be self-defense. The Cullman County District Attorney's Office declined to press charges.

The investigation has been going strong since the murder, according to CPD Capt. of Investigation Becky Boyd.

“In January 2018 Investigator Max Bartlett was assigned to work this case and it was the only case he has worked on for the past two months. He did an excellent job. Last week he submitted his findings to the DA’s Office and on Friday warrants were issued,” said Boyd. 

“I’m thankful for the work of all the investigators who have worked on this case," said Boyd. "We have spent a great deal of time on this case to get to this point. Hopefully this will bring some closure to the Clements family.”

This is a developing story. Check www.CullmanTribune.com for the very latest.

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

CULLMAN - Below are the arrests reported for March 5. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.

GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear

Cullman County Sheriff’s Office

Bowers, Richard Lynn, 62

• possession of drug paraphernalia

Duke, Donna Marie, 34

• first-degree bail jumping- first-degree theft of property

Fortner, Jennifer Denise, 37

• aggravated child abuse

Fortner, Kenneth Allen, 37

• aggravated child abuse

Garner, Toby Christian, 37

• FTA- public intoxication
• FTA- possession of drug paraphernalia
• FTA- obstructing government operations

Hames, Randy Allan, 75

• second-degree human trafficking (2 counts)

Lynn, Christopher Wayne, 32

• FTA- attempting to elude
• FTA- third-degree domestic violence- harassment
• FTA- possession of drug paraphernalia

Nunnelley, Jacky Lee, 43

• FTA- first-degree theft of property (3 counts)

Potts, Kenneth Ray, 47

• FTA- permitting dogs to run at large

Pugh, Stephanie Nicole, 33

• FTA- possession of prescription medicine

Seal, Rodney Landrin, 48

• FTA- driving while revoked

Shikle, Sandra Duke, 52

• probation violation- first-degree theft of property (3 counts)

Thomas, Callahan, 30

• writ of arrest- child support

Tubbs, Stacy Lee, 43

• probation violation- unlawful possession of a controlled substance

Cullman Police Department

Pack, Malcolm D., 55

• possession of drug paraphernalia

Kilpatrick, Justin T., 54

• unlawful possession or receipt of a controlled substance
• possession of drug paraphernalia

Aderhold, Nicholas H., 39

• unlawful distribution of a controlled substance (2 counts)

Parker, Galon W., 36

• unlawful possession or receipt of a controlled substance
• possession or drug paraphernalia

Pugh, Stephanie N., 33

• FTA- third-degree theft of property

Hanceville Police Department

No arrests reported.

Find arrest reports online Monday-Friday at www.CullmanTribune.com.

Kayla Thursby, top left, and Jerome Flanigan, bottom left, have both been charged with the September 2016 murder of Leslie Clements, right. (Mugshots courtesy of the Cullman Police Department. Photo of Leslie Clements courtesy of Facebook)

updated 3-6-18 at 10:30 p.m. with Kayla Thursby's new mugshot from Tuesday night.

CULLMAN -  A second person has been arrested and charged with the September 2016 murder of 33-year-old Leslie Clements. Kayla S. Thursby was arrested in Tuscaloosa on an unrelated warrant early Tuesday evening. She is now charged with murder and first-degree theft of property. Thursby was transported back to Cullman by the Cullman Police Department (CPD) Tuesday night.

Jerome Flanigan, 36, who, along with Thursby, was a suspect in the Clements’ case for some time, was arrested Sunday night and charged with murder, first-degree theft of property and second-degree arson.

Clements’ body was found in an apartment in the 1000 block of Fuller Street, on the southwest side of the city of Cullman, on Friday, Sept. 16, 2016. Authorities declared the death suspicious, and the body was sent to Huntsville for autopsy.

That same day, Flanigan and Thursby were identified as persons of interest by the CPD.

In two bizarre twists to the case, on the day Clements’ body was found, the childhood home of Jerome Flanigan was set on fire in the town of Colony. The Cullman County Sheriff’s Office investigated the fire, which was on County Road 33. 

The next day, Saturday, Sept. 17, 2016, George Lamar Flanigan, then 38, the brother of Jerome Flanigan, was found with a gunshot wound to his abdomen. He was transported by ambulance to Cullman Regional, where he was treated and released. The CPD identified the shooter as Ronald McLaughlin. According to a statement from the CPD, McLaughlin was cooperative with the police and the shooting appeared to be self-defense. The Cullman County District Attorney's Office declined to press charges.

The investigation has been going strong since the murder, according to CPD Capt. of Investigation Becky Boyd.

“In January 2018 Investigator Max Bartlett was assigned to work this case and it was the only case he has worked on for the past two months. He did an excellent job. Last week he submitted his findings to the DA’s office and on Friday warrants were issued,” said Boyd. 

“I’m thankful for the work of all the investigators who have worked on this case," said Boyd. "We have spent a great deal of time on this case to get to this point. Hopefully this will bring some closure to the Clements family.”

Upon Thursby’s arrest Tuesday night, Boyd said, “We obtained the warrants last Friday and were able to get Jerome Sunday. This is the final piece of this part. We’re just glad to have her to close this phase of the investigation. It’ll be in the court’s hands now. We’re just very glad to be able to make the arrest and bring some closure for her family.”

Boyd said Jerome Flanigan remains incarcerated in the Cullman County Detention Center as on a $65,000 cash bond. Thursby is being held on a $60,000 property bond.

Authorities are not releasing Clements’ cause of death at this time.

This is a developing story. Check www.CullmanTribune.com for the very latest.

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Jennifer Fortner, left; Kenneth Fortner, right / Cullman County Sheriff’s Office

HOLLY POND - A man and woman from Holly Pond have been arrested and charged with aggravated child abuse following the death of a juvenile.

Kenneth Allen Fortner, 37, and Jennifer Denise Fortner, 37, were taken into custody on Monday.

According to a media release from the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office, the arrests stem from a call to the Fortners’ residence on Feb. 23, 2018 regarding the death of a juvenile.

“After arriving on the scene deputies determined that the condition and environment of the home was unsanitary due to filth and neglect, which appeared to have accumulated over a long period of time,” said the release.

The Cullman County Department of Human Resources was then notified to respond to the residence.

The CCSO said the exact cause and manner of juvenile’s death could not be determined and is pending further forensic analysis. Results of an autopsy are pending.

The Fortners are being held in the Cullman County Detention Center, each on a $50,000 cash bond.

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Walter John Cornelius III / Cullman County Sheriff's Office

CULLMAN - A man has been charged with manslaughter in connection with the death of 21-year-old Hannah Nicole Bates. Walter John Cornelius III, 29, of Altoona was arrested on Tuesday, March 6.

Bates was killed in an incident at Stony Lonesome OHV Park on Saturday, Feb. 24, 2018. She was a passenger in a RZR 900, an off-road vehicle, that flipped. Cornelius was the driver. According to the Cullman County Sheriff's Office, Cornelius was allegedly intoxicated by alcohol at the time of the crash.

He was placed in the Cullman County Detention Center on a $20,000 bond and has since been released.

Stony Lonesome is a park for OHV, or "off-highway vehicles." It is owned by Cullman County and operated by Cullman County Parks and Recreation (CCP&R).

“It happened within minutes of the park closing, I think they were probably on their way back to check out,” Doug Davenport, CCP&R director, told The Tribune the night of the crash.

Davenport said the wreck occurred on a hill on one of the designated trails.

According to Davenport, where the wreck happened, “It doesn’t look like speed or anything would be a factor.”

“It’s a tragic event. There wasn’t a race.”

Davenport said it appeared the victim was not wearing a seat belt.

The Cullman County Commission reacted to the incident swiftly, approving several rule changes for Stony Lonesome on Tuesday, Feb. 27.  Davenport was at the meeting  to outline the new rules at the park, including: no coolers on the trails, required safety harnesses and seat belts and a stricter wristband policy.

Bates's death was the third at the park in less than a year. Back on April 22, 2017, Lawrence Richey, 34, of Smiths Grove, Kentucky and Erin Duncan, 22, of Elkins, Arkansas were killed as the result of an ATV crash.

Stony Lonesome is located at 10075 Alabama Highway 69 South in Bremen.

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Nicholas Aderhold / Cullman Police Department

CULLMAN - The Cullman Police Department’s Crime Suppression Unit on Monday arrested a Cullman County man for allegedly selling methamphetamine.

According to the CPD, Nicholas Heath Aderhold, 39, of the Logan/Bethel area was charged with two counts of unlawful distribution of a controlled substance. The department said Aderhold sold methamphetamine on two separate occasions.   

Aderhold’s bond was set at $10,000 property.

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Jerome Flanigan, left, and Kayla Thursby, right, have been charged with the 2016 murder of Leslie Clements. / Cullman Police Department

CULLMAN -  Two people this week were arrested and charged with the September 2016 murder of 33-year-old Leslie Anne Clements.

Jerome Anthony Flanigan, 36, was arrested Sunday night and charged with murder, first-degree theft of property and second-degree arson.

Kayla Sherea Thursby, 31, who, along with Flanigan, was a suspect in the Clements’ case for some time, was arrested in Tuscaloosa on an unrelated warrant early Tuesday evening. She is now charged with murder and first-degree theft of property. Thursby was transported back to Cullman by the Cullman Police Department (CPD) Tuesday night.

According to court documents, both Flanigan and Thursby are accused of choking Clements and/or placing a double-wrapped plastic bag around her neck with an electrical cord. The theft of property charges stem from Flanigan and Thursby allegedly stealing Clements’ 1994 Volvo.

Clements’ body was found in an apartment in the 1000 block of Fuller Street, on the southwest side of the city of Cullman, on Friday, Sept. 16, 2016. Authorities declared the death suspicious, and the body was sent to Huntsville for autopsy.

That same day, Flanigan and Thursby were identified as persons of interest by the CPD.

In two bizarre twists to the case, on the day Clements’ body was found, the childhood home of Jerome Flanigan was set on fire in the town of Colony. The Cullman County Sheriff’s Office investigated the fire, which was on County Road 33. 

The next day, Saturday, Sept. 17, 2016, George Lamar Flanigan, then 38, the brother of Jerome Flanigan, was found with a gunshot wound to his abdomen. He was transported by ambulance to Cullman Regional, where he was treated and released. The CPD identified the shooter as Ronald McLaughlin. According to a statement from the CPD, McLaughlin was cooperative with the police and the shooting appeared to be self-defense. The Cullman County District Attorney's Office declined to press charges.

The investigation has been going strong since the murder, according to CPD Capt. of Investigation Becky Boyd.

“In January 2018 Investigator Max Bartlett was assigned to work this case and it was the only case he has worked on for the past two months. He did an excellent job. Last week he submitted his findings to the DA’s office and on Friday warrants were issued,” said Boyd. 

“I’m thankful for the work of all the investigators who have worked on this case," said Boyd. "We have spent a great deal of time on this case to get to this point. Hopefully this will bring some closure to the Clements family.”

Upon Thursby’s arrest Tuesday night, Boyd said, “We obtained the warrants last Friday and were able to get Jerome Sunday. This is the final piece of this part. We’re just glad to have her to close this phase of the investigation. It’ll be in the court’s hands now. We’re just very glad to be able to make the arrest and bring some closure for her family.”

Boyd said Jerome Flanigan remains incarcerated in the Cullman County Detention Center as on a $65,000 cash bond. Thursby is being held on a $55,000 property bond.

This is a developing story. Check www.CullmanTribune.com for the very latest.

Jerome Flanigan Complaint by cullmansense on Scribd

Kayla Thursby Complaint by cullmansense on Scribd

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

CULLMAN - The Cullman County Animal Shelter’s Donna Ruttkay introduces us to our Pet of the Week Jade, an adult shepherd/husky mix.  She’s laid back with a low energy level, and submissive.

Ruttkay related that Jade “floats ever so lightly on her leash, sits and gives you her paw… A little girl, maybe 4 years old, and her parents, stopped by the shelter. She walked up beside Jade, stretched out her small hand and touched Jade's withers.  Jade sat down and delicately extended her paw. She embodies the nature of an undeniable canine companion.”

Jade’s adoption fee is $90, which includes her DHLPP vaccine, Bordetella vaccines, rabies vaccine, wormer, general exam by a veterinarian, spay, microchip, free 45-day health insurance policy issued by 24PetWatch (with valid email only) and a free bag of food from Cullman Pet Depot (you must pay sales tax).

Please consider adopting to give a rescued pet a chance at a happy and healthy life.

Contact the Cullman County Animal Shelter at 256-734-5448 or visit them at 935 Convent Road NE. Reach them by email at cullmancountyanimalshelter@gmail.com.

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

CULLMAN - Rock the South (RTS) will return to Cullman June 1-2 with an impressive lineup of stars.  Headliners Thomas Rhett and Eric Church will be joined by classic country/southern rockers Hank Williams Jr. and the Marshall Tucker Band and some of the current generation’s hottest names, as well as up-and-coming talent. 

The lineup, so far:

• Lauren Alaina
• Eric Church
• Riley Green
• Marshall Tucker Band
• Thomas Rhett
• Dylan Schneider
• Upchurch
• Hank Williams Jr.
• Brett Young

And there’s more to come, as 46 Entertainment’s RTS Event Coordinator Nathan Baugh told The Tribune:

“We do have some exciting additions to announce over the next couple of weeks.  As this event has become a great place for artists to play, we are excited to use Rock the South to develop younger talent, as well as have the major headliners like Eric Church and Thomas Rhett.  More announcements will be coming soon as we finalize the earlier part of the lineup!”

Event security a priority

Last year’s Las Vegas concert mass shooting is weighing heavily on the minds of RTS event planners, and no one has forgotten the less serious problems that occurred during last year’s weather delays.  Event planners and the Cullman Police Department have taken a serious look at matters of security both inside and outside Heritage Park.

RTS Founder Shane Quick recently announced on Facebook that RTS would, for the first time, use metal detectors at its gates.

Said Baugh, "While we understand things can happen anywhere, we want to do everything we can to protect our attendees and artists.  As another layer of protection, we are adding metal detectors to our entrances at Rock the South in 2018. Safety is of paramount priority to our team, and we will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to make Rock the South safe for all.”

Police Chief Kenny Culpepper is working with the RTS staff to manage security in and around the park, using CPD and Cullman County Sheriff’s Office resources.  He declined to release specific details of the plan, for security reasons, but shared that it would include an increased personnel presence in sensitive areas, an expanded park perimeter and even aerial surveillance of the event site.

“We’ve always felt comfortable with our interior security,” said Culpepper. “In other words, (once) you go through the gate and you actually get into the grounds.  We’ve always felt like we had a good presence, and that we were able to maintain security fairly well inside the perimeter. And that’s going to be enhanced and increased this year with the metal detectors.

“The problem now is (if) you have an event that’s out of the norm, and then you have to respond to it.  So, the direction and guidance that we’re getting now is to pay more attention to the exterior, the perimeter, which is what happened in Las Vegas.  You had the shooter on the outside; he wasn’t actually in the venue, he just had line of sight from a distance away,” said Culpepper.

“So, we’re putting in place some plans to, number one: try to prevent someone from doing something like that, and number two: to respond to it quickly, to limit it as much as possible if it does occur, because it’s very difficult, you know, to completely stop something like that from outside the venue.  The advantage we have is that we don’t have high-rises and a lot of vantage points, but we do have a few areas of concern that we’re working some contingency plans on.”

The increased exterior security presence should not only be able to deter or respond to a crisis event like a shooter, but also to respond to issues at local businesses and other locations surrounding the park.

Minimizing the impact on Heritage Park

The expanded presence around the park perimeter will not only address security matters, but also allow the relocation of certain resources within the venue, to alter foot traffic patterns from previous years and protect areas that have tended to suffer more damage.

Said Baugh, “We have worked diligently with Cullman City Parks and Recreation to develop a plan that eliminates uses of certain pieces of the park, like the baseball fields, and helps give us more space for attendees to move about.  We are excited to unveil that plan here in the next few weeks.”

Sponsors

Sponsors of RTS 2018 include Pepsi, Mitch Smith Chevrolet, ABC 33/40, Allstate, Bestway Rent to Own, Budweiser, Cullman Savings Bank, CW 21 Television, Fireball Whisky, Firefly, Firestone Tires, I Heart Media, Marathon Petroleum Corp., Papa John’s Pizza, Patrick Drake Associates, Priority Electric, Regions Bank, Timberline Homes, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Truckworx, Tunica MS and Tupelo.com.

For more information and updates leading up to RTS, visit www.rockthesouth.com or www.facebook.com/RockTheSouth.

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

CULLMAN - Below are the arrests reported for March 6. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.

GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear

Cullman County Sheriff’s Office

Cornelius, Walter John III, 29

• manslaughter

Dobbs, Ricky Eugene, 46

• judge’s order- unlawful possession of a controlled substance

Guthery, Valerie Danielle, 18

• possession of drug paraphernalia
• public intoxication

Nunnelley, Jacky Lee, 43

• first-degree receiving stolen property

Runyon, Jeremy Alan, 30

• possession of drug paraphernalia
• FTA- public intoxication

Sanders, Colton Joe, 25

• judge’s order- possession of drug paraphernalia
• judge’s order- unlawful possession of a controlled substance

Sanders, Rodney Dante, 26

• FTA- DUI- .08 BAC or greater

Sellers, Gregory Ledale, 52

• probation violation- unlawful possession of a controlled substance

Tidwell, Carlos Lyle, 38

• FTA- unlawful possession of a controlled substance
• FTA- possession of drug paraphernalia

Cullman Police Department

Smith, Matthew D., 28

• GJ- theft by fraudulent leasing

Jacobs, Drennon L., 28

• FTA- third-degree theft of property

Cornelius, Amanda L., 32

• FTA- fourth-degree theft of property
• FTA- third-degree criminal trespassing

Dunson, Carlton E., 50

• FTA- third-degree receiving stolen property

Oliver, Mark H., 57

• disorderly conduct

Hanceville Police Department

No arrests reported.

Find arrest reports online Monday-Friday at www.CullmanTribune.com.

Attorney Melvin Hasting, Republican candidate for Cullman County circuit judge, spoke to the Holly Pond Town Council this week. Hasting is running against incumbent Martha Williams in the Republican Primary on June 5. / Nick Griffin

HOLLY POND - The Holly Pond Town Council spent the bulk of its monthly meeting this week discussing repairs and renovations being performed or considered across town. Before the discussions began, the council welcomed a guest to speak for a few moments, circuit judge candidate Melvin Hasting. Hasting, who is running against incumbent Martha Williams in the Republican Primary on June 5, spoke briefly, using his time to explain who he is and why he wants the job to the Holly Pond citizens in attendance.

“I’m an attorney by trade, but I’m also a father, a husband and a business owner. I went to school at Vinemont, Coach (Bill) Oliver (who is also Holly Pond’s mayor) was there about the time I graduated, and I had to earn everything I got. I still earn I everything I get, and I work hard, I understand when people have property how important it is to you,” Hasting said. “I’m sure none of you were given your stuff, you had to earn it too and when you’re sitting in front of a circuit judge, whether it may be some kind of a contract action, a worker’s comp. case, a divorce or you’re a victim of a crime, your property and what you’ve earned is very important to you, and I understand that. I take that stuff seriously and I’m letting you know, if you give me an opportunity to be circuit judge I promise you, I’ll always remember that.”

After hearing from Hasting, the council spent a little time discussing progress on the town’s storm shelter project. A pre-construction meeting was held Monday morning with Aqua Marine Enterprises Inc. to discuss details of the project. As part of the town’s 25 percent of the project, Holly Pond will need to be build the pad of the shelter before Aqua Marine can begin working on the foundation. The other 75 percent of the project will be paid for by the State of Alabama.

The council then discussed some requests they have received to rent out Governor’s Park for weddings and other ceremonies. No official decision was made at this month’s meeting, but a vote will be held during April’s meeting; the council and Oliver all expressed mixed feelings about renting the park. It was agreed that the park would be better off servicing the citizens of Holly Pond at all times rather than occasionally closing for rental parties.

Other repairs going on around town are the renovations being made to the town hall. The price to redo the interior of the building sits at $28,000 for new plumbing, lights, windows, etc., but Oliver said he is still waiting for a price on repairs to the roof. Oliver and the council agreed that it would be best to repair leaks in the roof before moving forward on interior repairs. The Holly Pond Senior Center is also undergoing repairs. The floors are being cleaned and damaged tile is being replaced. Oliver estimated that the repairs are a little over halfway completed and said the floors already look significantly better.

To close out the meeting, the council passed a proclamation to recognize April as “Civitan Awareness Month” in Holly Pond and announced an upcoming meeting with the Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce. The chamber will be heading to the conference room of Guy Hunt Library located at 60 Lions Park Road in Holly Pond on March 15 at 6 p.m. All Holly Pond business owners are invited to attend for a roundtable discussion with the chamber to talk about ideas and share information.

The Holly Pond Town Council will hold its next meeting on April 2 in the Guy Hunt Library conference room at 7 p.m.

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.