By Jeff Devine
The Daleville City Council convened for its regular meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 3. During the meeting, the council addressed several topics, ranging from hearing updates from community partners, discussing board appointments, approvals for upcoming events, and more.
Council members opened the meeting by acknowledging the passing of Ms. Georgia Nichols, a woman who was a beloved member of the community and a member of the Daleville Public Library Board. The council extended its condolences to Nichola’s family and loved ones.
Next, several council members shared remarks on their participation in Advocacy Day, which is hosted by the Alabama League of Municipalities, noting the opportunity to engage with state officials and discuss legislative issues affecting municipalities across Alabama.
The council also heard an update from the Daleville Area Chamber of Commerce regarding upcoming events, programs, and outreach Initiatives.
The chamber director addressed the council and announced a Coffee & Conversation networking event scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 11, from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. at the chamber office. The event is free to attend, with coffee and pastries provided by Enterprise Insurance.
“This is going to be casual and informal so everyone can start meeting face to face again,” said Michelle Powell, executive director of the Daleville Area Chamber of Commerce. “Join us for this relaxed but productive way to start the day,” Powell added that the event will provide an opportunity for business owners and community members to connect.
Powell also announced the Miss Daleville Pageant, scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 21, at the Daleville Cultural and Convention Center. She added that registration for the pageant has been extended. Pageant event times will be announced once the schedule is finalized.
In addition, the chamber will host the Operations presentation of the Business Blueprint on Wednesday, Feb. 25, from 8 to 10 a.m. at the Cultural and Convention Center. Chris Gayne of Dale County Diesel will teach the session. Registration is $25 for chamber members and $35 for nonmembers and includes breakfast.
In other business, Councilman Bobby R. Hardrick made a motion to appoint Glen Lininger as an alternate to the Daleville Board of Adjustments. The motion passed unanimously.
The council also addressed the need to appoint a liaison for the Alabama Communities of Excellence (ACE) program.
Mayor James Stayton said the request followed a recent presentation to city officials.
“A lady came to us last night and explained some stuff to us about the ACE program,” Stayton said. “She told us that we needed to appoint someone to serve as liaison.”
Councilman Jimmy Monk suggested Council Member Jaida Stone for the role and made a motion to appoint her as liaison. The motion passed unanimously.
Daleville was selected for the 2024 class of the ACE program. The program is an initiative that provides strategic planning, technical assistance, and other support to enhance local infrastructure and economic growth. Participation in the program comes at no cost to the city. This program helps cities assess strengths, develop, and implement long-term plans.
Council members also announced a vacancy on the Daleville Library Board due to the untimely passing of Ma. Nichols. Interested residents are encouraged to submit a statement of interest, and the term will expire in 2029.
The meeting concluded with council approval of the free use of Culpepper Park for the Great Daleville Easter Egg Drop. The event is planned as a free community activity open to the public.
The Daleville City Council meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall.
A video of the entire meeting is available online courtesy of former Daleville City Councilman Kevin Turley on his YouTube page, @kevinturley334. You can also click this link to watch the video.
