By Nathan Prewett
For the Tribune
PINSON — At a meeting at Pinson City Hall on Thursday night, the city council heard a report on a proposed storm shelter, progress on the ongoing Rock School Center project, and an overview by City Attorney Shane Black on forming a Parks and Recreation board.
A brief post annexation hearing was held for a property owner’s request to be rezoned from Jefferson County District A1 to City of Pinson District AG (agriculture). The property is located on Dug Hollow Road in Pinson. No one spoke for or against the annexation during the hearing and was passed as Resolution 2018-12.
Mayor Hoyt Sanders provided a report on plans for a proposed storm shelter on Miles Spring Road and North Valley Road. He said renditions have been drafted for the shelter, which will hold up to 98 people. He explained that a FEMA grant was given to the city for construction.
“For public information, the emphasis a couple of years ago was on first responders storm shelters,” he said. “The idea being that if first responders are harmed or trapped they can’t respond to assist others that are in peril. We were awarded this FEMA grant and that should be starting.”
Sanders also gave a report on the progress of the Rock School, saying that “historically correct but modern efficient windows” were being installed at the building. A quote from Apex Mechanical Services, Inc. was given to the Council on the installation of a one-split air conditioning for $6,600. The Council unanimously approved the proposal.
The Council also approved a $10,445 proposal from Spriggers Choice for a sprigging and leveling project at Bradford Park.
Black gave an explanation of Parks and Recreation boards in answer to Councilor Dawn Tanner’s request for more information. Black said that unlike other boards, a Parks and Recreation board is not required, but optional for cities. He explained there were essentially two types of boards, one serving as in an advisory role while another has the authority to make decisions.
Tanner said that forming a board was a possibility with the city’s growth and popularity of sports. She said that it could also serve Turkey Creek and would probably function in an advisory fashion.
Earlier in the meeting, Councilor Joy McCain reminded attendees of the “Beat the Heat” that will take place at Turkey Creek on July 21. He also mentioned another event, National Night Out, which will take place on Aug. 21 at the Innsbrooke Pavilion.
Before the council went into executive session, Sanders said that the Center Point Fire District asked members of the council to be present at a ceremony for a new clean room at Station 2 on July 19 – the same date as the next council meeting.
Sanders explained that a clean room at the fire station functions as a place where gear and clothing exposed to toxins after a fire can be stored before being cleaned to prevent firefighters from contracting illnesses.
Sanders said that the council may meet there for the cleaning room dedication at 6 p.m. or 6:30 p.m. A notice will be posted on the city’s Facebook page.