Rainsville Hears Department Heads
The Rainsville City Council met on Monday, May 20, 2019. During the work session, the council heard reports from different department heads.
Police Chief, Kevin Smith, thanked everyone for coming to the First Responders’ Memorial Ceremony on May 18, 2019. He said there was a great turnout, and he also thanked everyone who helped put it together. He reported everything was running smoothly at the police department.
Fire Chief, Willimac Wright, reported the Fire School operated in conjunction with the DeKalb County Board of Education, expects enrollment to increase next year due to the success of the new program. He also thanked everyone for supporting the First Responders’ Memorial Ceremony.
Sarah Cruce, Rainsville’s Librarian, announced that the library had received a $1,000.00 grant from Dollar General for its summer reading program. Registration is now open for the program, A Universe of Stories, and will continue until June 3, 2019.
Chamber of Commerce Director, Sandy Goff, reported that vendor slots are available for the May 29, 2019, Rainsville Freedom Fest. Contact the Chamber to reserve a spot. Vendor spots are free to Chamber members, but nonmembers may also participate for a fee of $40.00. While she was giving her report, Councilman Stiefel expressed his disappointment at the resignation of some Chamber of Commerce members.
Public Building Authority Chairman, Eric Samples, stated that approximately 5,000 people visited the Northeast Alabama Agri-Business Center during May. He also reminded the public that applications are still being taken for the Agri-Business Center’s Director position.
Matt Crum, Rainsville Revenue/Zoning Officer, informed everyone that twenty new building permits were issued during May, illustrating the city’s growth.
Councilman Freeman announced that the Rainsville Swimming Pool would open May 27 or May 28 for the summer season. All lifeguards passed their certification tests and are ready for work.
Councilman Byrum congratulated all graduating seniors and their families on their achievements.
During the Rainsville City Council Meeting, the following actions occurred:
• Approved Municipal Water Pollution Prevention Resolution 052019A
• Approved Resolution 052019B declaring eighty chairs as Surplus
• Approved $9,000.00 for the completion of the George Wallace Bridge Project
• Approved the purchase of 100 garbage cans costing between $5,000.00 and $6,000.00
• Accepted the Resignation of Police Officer Nick Knopps effective June 8, 2019
• Accepted the Resignation of Fireman Justin Harper effective May 20, 2019
• Hired Josh Wilson as Full-time Police Sergeant effective May 29, 2019
• Promoted Police Officer, Tim Devlin, to Captain effective May 22, 2019
• Hired Justin Harper as Part-time Fireman effective June 3, 2019
• Hired Jason Johnson as Full-time Police Officer effective May 22, 2019
• Approved $500.00 for Police Academy Refresher Course for Jason Johnson pending his signing of a one year contract to work for the City
The council then agreed to pay the monthly bills, and Mayor Lingerfelt adjourned the meeting.