Jacksonville City Council Meeting Highlights: E-Scooter Plans, Eastwood School Restoration, and Community Concerns

Jacksonville, AL – The Jacksonville City Council held a regularly scheduled work session and city council meeting on June 24th, 2024.

• Call to order.
• Invocation.
• Pledge of Allegiance.
• Roll call.
  • Tony Taylor – Present
  • Sherry Laster – Present
  • Coty Galloway – Present
  • Andy Green – Present
  • Terry Wilson – Present
• Proclamation. – None
• Work Session:
  • Acceptance of Minutes. – No Comments

• • JSU E-Scooters – Marcus Wood.
    • Chief Wood began by explaining the progress made in discussions with the Spin company regarding the deployment of e-scooters at Jacksonville State University (JSU). The primary focus was on developing a detailed and accurate map of where the e-scooters could be safely used and parked.Chief Wood noted that the initial map provided by Spin was a blank template, which necessitated local input to determine suitable areas for scooter use. He highlighted the need for detailed guidance on which streets and locations to include or exclude, emphasizing that the Spin representatives had not yet visited Jacksonville and were unfamiliar with the local geography.He acknowledged the importance of JSU staff, particularly those familiar with traffic loads and neighborhood conditions, in providing input on the map. The goal was to identify areas where e-scooters could enhance campus mobility, especially during sporting events and other large gatherings, while avoiding regions lacking adequate infrastructure like sidewalks.Chief Wood outlined that e-scooters would be equipped with headlights and taillights for visibility. He also mentioned the possibility of implementing time restrictions through local ordinances to prevent scooter operations during certain hours, such as between 8 PM and 6 AM. This would require revisions to existing ordinances that currently prohibit motorized scooters on sidewalks.Chief Wood and Chief Barton were exploring a permitting system for personally owned e-scooters. This system would involve registering scooters, recording serial numbers, and ensuring they meet safety specifications. This initiative aimed to help in cases of theft or damage and ensure compliance with local regulations.The discussion touched on whether e-scooter owners would need liability insurance. Chief Wood clarified that, due to the low engine capacity, e-scooters did not fall under the same insurance requirements as motorcycles. However, he emphasized the need to establish clear guidelines within the ordinance to differentiate between different types of motorized vehicles.Chief Wood highlighted the need for public education on e-scooter safety. This included mandatory safety videos for students and a comprehensive approach to educating the campus community on the rules and safe usage of e-scooters.

      A significant part of the discussion focused on geofencing to ensure e-scooters operated only in designated areas. Chief Wood proposed working with Spin and JSU’s safety team to create a precise map that would include safe pathways and areas with sufficient sidewalks. Adjustments to geofencing could be made quickly as needed.

      Chief Wood and Chief Kadle addressed concerns about lithium-ion batteries used in e-scooters, noting the potential fire hazards associated with charging and storing these batteries. He mentioned that Spin was considering securing a location to store and charge the scooters safely.

• • 2024 Healthy City Concept/Partnership – Patricia Daigle.
    • Questions were raised about funding, prompting Daigle to identify and propose applying for two grants totaling $100,000, with more potential grants being sought. Concerning equipment maintenance, Daigle assured that the fitness equipment is low maintenance, with a quarter-century lifespan and minimal annual costs for upkeep. Artwork options for the fitness court, including a standard design or a local artist upgrade, were also presented, with costs outlined. Additionally, potential locations for the court, such as near the public safety complex, the community center, or Germania Springs, were discussed, each offering unique benefits like accessibility to trails or senior activities. Daigle encouraged the council to promptly submit a non-binding grant application, stressing the upcoming deadline for consideration in August. She clarified that the proposed budget of $155,000 covers all expenses not funded by grants, with efforts ongoing to secure additional financial support. No immediate actions are required from the council until grant responses are received, expected within two to three months.
  • Eastwood School.
    • Councilman Terry Wilson provided an update on the Eastwood School restoration efforts, highlighting recent positive developments. The committee has engaged with potential donors who are crucial in securing funding to preserve the historically significant school. Wilson emphasized the dual benefits of saving the school: providing another community center for the city and balancing resources across town. A fundraising campaign is set to launch on July 6th during a reunion event, with initial pledges and contributions already coming in. Stressing the urgency of addressing the school’s deteriorating condition before it worsens, Wilson appealed to the council to consider pledging support to kick off the campaign. It was discussed that because the city owns the property, financial contributions from the council would necessitate the project to be bid out, unless specific conditions are met to avoid bidding requirements. Wilson sought clarification on the council’s role and funding guidelines to ensure alignment with project goals and legal requirements moving forward.
  • Any other business.
    • Councilman Coty Galloway requested taking the Temporary Moratorium on the Filing, Acceptance, and/or Approval of Any Application or Permit Relating to the Construction, Extension, and/or Addition of Multi-Family Residential Developments off the agenda to allow for more time to discuss this issue. At the next meeting this will be on the work Session agenda starting at 5:30 pm.
• Adoption of minutes. – Unanimously Approved
• Adoption of agenda. – Unanimously Approved  with amendments
  • DELETE:
  • Consideration of Ordinance No. O-655-24 to Protect the Health, Safety and General Welfare of the People Relating to Multi-Family Residential Developments, declaring a Temporary Moratorium on the Filing, Acceptance, and/or Approval of Any Application or Permit Relating to the Construction, Extension, and/or Addition of Multi-Family Residential Developments. (First Reading)
  • ADD: To Consent Agenda – Police – Increase Account No. 10-02-4101-00-60125 in the amount fo $2.07 for restitutions.
  • ADD: To Consent Agenda – Police – Increase Account No. 10-02-6101-00-60153 in the amount of $1,500.00 for Restoration for damages to Chimney Peak Gate.
  • ADD: To Consent Agenda – Purchases Over $7,500.00 – General Fund – $80,823.00 to Municpal Workers Compensation Fund, INC for policy No. 001-2023-00175-00 for the period 2/1/23-1/31-24.
• Public comments concerning agenda. – None
• Consider action to Suspend the Rules for the Immediate Consideration of Ordinance No. O-656- 24 that Completely Amends Section 12-104 – Purpose, Section 12-105 – Applicability and Section 12-111 – Enforcement, to Chapter 12 – Floods, Article III – Stormwater Run-Off Management, of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Jacksonville, Alabama. – Unanimously Approved
• Consideration of Ordinance No. O-656-24 that Completely Amends Section 12-104 – Purpose, Section 12-105 – Applicability and Section 12-111 – Enforcement, to Chapter 12 – Floods, Article III – Stormwater Run-Off Management, of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Jacksonville, Alabama. – Unanimously Approved
• Consideration of Resolution No. R-2212-24 Amending a Portion of the City of Jacksonville’s Stormwater Management Program (SWMP). – Unanimously Approved
• Consider action to authorize the Mayor to sign the City of Jacksonville Second Amendment to IT Services Contract with Municipal Technology Services, LLC, per the attached. – Unanimously Approved
• Consider action to authorize the Mayor to sign the Jacksonville Water Works, Gas and Sewer Board Second Amendment to IT Services Contract with Municipal Technology Services, LLC, per the attached. – Unanimously Approved
• Consider action to approve the reclassification of the following: – Unanimously Approved
  • Sean M. Jones, Part-Time/Substitute Firefighter/Paramedic, Range 11A, effective June 26, 2024, due to receiving Paramedic License.
• Consent Agenda – Unanimously Approved
  • Budget Amendment Requests.
  • Purchases Over $7,500.00.
  • Boards/Committees.
• Public comments for general items.

• • Cindy Kilgore expressed significant concerns about the infrastructure and traffic issues in Jacksonville, particularly related to recent and upcoming developments. She highlighted the deteriorating conditions of Cedar Springs Road and Broad Mill Road, aggravated by heavy equipment and semi-truck traffic. Kilgore stressed that these roads are ill-prepared for the influx of residents from new apartment complexes and other developments, which she fears could lead to serious accidents. She pointed out hazardous traffic patterns at intersections and entrances, noting the challenges drivers face, such as limited visibility and congested areas without proper signals. Kilgore advocated for improved road planning, including additional entrances and better traffic management along Route 204 to Broad Mill Road, citing existing congestion near schools and residential areas. Her concerns also extended to pedestrian safety, emphasizing the lack of sidewalks and safe pathways for cyclists and pedestrians in the expanding community.

• • Tim Kyner expressed deep concerns about the proposed apartment complex and its potential impact on his neighborhood. He echoed worries shared by others about increased traffic and the possibility of intoxicated drivers posing a danger to the quiet residential area. Kyner, a long-term resident, emphasized his attachment to the peaceful environment where he has raised his children and the disruption he fears from loud music, parties, and heightened activity associated with a nearby apartment complex. He also raised concerns about the deteriorating infrastructure, particularly roads already affected by heavy truck traffic. Kyner voiced apprehensions about potential decreases in property values due to increased rental properties and expressed skepticism about the readiness of the community for such rapid development. Despite his reservations, he acknowledged the council’s role in managing development and expressed hope that they would consider the community’s concerns while moving forward. He apologized for his unprepared remarks and appearance, attributing it to his demanding work schedule and family responsibilities.
• Council Member Remarks.
  • Councilman Terry Wilson shared his heartfelt experience attending an event at the American Legion. He described it as an emotional moment witnessing the reverence shown for the American flag, including its respectful retirement ceremony. Wilson praised the American Legion post for their dedication and highlighted the ceremony’s impact, emphasizing the importance of honoring veterans and their contributions to the community and country. He also noted the Legion’s recognition of local firefighters and police officers for their community service, underscoring their commitment to public service and community support.
• Mayor’s report.
  • Upcoming movie night that was reschedlued is the 28th at City Hall.
  • Last Friday Southland Soul performed. Both the Mayor and Counciwoman Laster were dancing in the parkinglot.
  • JaxFest is July 3rd at the Public Saftey Complex.
  • The city will be closed for the 4th.
• Any Other Business. – None
• Consider action to adjourn into an Executive Session under the provisions of the Code of Alabama, Section36-25A-7(a)(7) regarding matters of economic development. – Unanimously Approved

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