By Nathan Prewett, For the Tribune
PINSON, Ala.–The Pinson City Council held a lengthy discussion during its meeting on Thursday, Jan. 2 regarding a vacant lot owned by the city on Main Street.
Since the building that formerly stood on the property was demolished, the lot has regularly been used for the Butter Bean Festival and Trade Days events.
However, Mayor Robbie Roberts noted that people have been using it for other activities like private yard sales, oftentimes without going to the city government first.
When discussing what the city could potentially do with the property, City Attorney Shane Black said the council has a number of options, such as setting up a marketplace where spaces could be rented out to vendors on a first come first serve, non-discriminatory basis.
City Operations Director Eric Winfrey expressed concerns with potential liability as the lot has “issues” with its remaining foundation, such as steps and flaws that might result in injuries.
Councilor Brad Walker asked if the foundation could be repaired, but Winfrey was unsure if the cost to do so would be worth it and suggested stressing to renters to be aware of the risk.
Councilor Clintenshia Irvin also suggested putting up signage to say that the space is not for private use.
It was ultimately decided to revisit the matter at a future meeting.
Additionally, Tom Corsey, co-owner of Patti’s Flea Market on Main Street, asked during public comments for clarification regarding yard sales on the lot and if they were not allowed to do so until the council makes a decision. Roberts confirmed that was the case.
Pinson Public Library Director Allison Scanlan also announced during public comments that the Jefferson County Library Cooperative (of which Pinson is a part of) saw more than a million digital checkouts through the Abby app, also known as Overdrive.
“That is a milestone for us,” Scanlan said. “That’s the highest it’s ever been.”
She also pointed out that the library received two community service grants in 2024. One was a $5,000 grant from Sen. Linda Coleman Madison and the other was $5,000 from Rep. Allen Treadaway. She expressed her appreciation.
“We are working on a couple of things to put that money to good use for our community,” Scanlan said. “And not only to expand the services that we have but also improve some of our spaces as well.”
In other business, the council:
- Approved a contract with Jones Municipal Consultants, and
- Approved a quote for refurbishing football helmets at the Pinson Youth Sports Center for $8,480.
Pinson City Council meets on the first and third Thursdays of every month at City Hall on 4410 Main Street. Live-streamed meetings can be seen on the city’s Facebook page.
Nathan Prewett can be reached at nthomasp6@gmail.com.
