By Terry Schrimscher
CENTER POINT — In the wake of recent shootings in the Birmingham area, the City Council of Center Point approved the purchase and installation of bulletproof glass at City Hall. The Council unanimously approved the purchase during the second regular monthly meeting on February 15, 2024.
“If anything would happen, like something happened at the church this weekend, people are just doing things,” said Councilman Glenn Williams Sr. “I’d hate for something to happen to our employees,” he added.
Williams mentioned a past incident at City Hall where an angry person threatened City Clerk Tameeka Vann and expressed concern that City Hall needs to be more secure to protect employees dealing with the public.
The motion to purchase bulletproof glass for $12,007.96 was approved unanimously. Council President D.M. Collins was absent due to illness but spoke to the Tribune after the meeting.
“In light of the escalating nationwide violence and growing concerns for the safety of public officials, installing safety measures in City Hall is a necessary,” said Collins. “This proactive step protects those who serve our community.”
The Council also approved $29,072.45 for the purchase of helmets for Center Point youth sports programs.
“Kudos to the council for approving funds for youth safety helmets in the recreation program,” Collins said. “It’s always important to prioritize our children’s well-being, this agreement ensures routine safety maintenance of the helmets, it’s assuring to know that all children participating in our sports program will have safe helmets,” she added.
In his report to the Council, Mayor Bobby Scott reminded everyone of the “Earn as you Learn” essay contest. The contest offers prizes to local students for short essays in recognition of Black History Month.
The Center Point City Council meets on the first and third Thursdays of the month at City Hall located at 2209 Center Point Parkway. The next meeting will be held Thursday, March 7, at 6:30 p.m.