By Jeff Devine, Dale County Chronicle
The Ozark City Council met Tuesday evening, April 21, for its regularly scheduled session, addressing a mix of ceremonial recognitions, funding approvals, and municipal business.
During the administrative portion of the meeting, Charles Ward issued two official proclamations recognizing Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month and National Donate Life Month.
In the National Donate Life Month proclamation, Ward highlighted the urgent need for donors, stating that “more than 100,000 Americans, including nearly 1,200 Alabamians, are currently awaiting lifesaving organ transplants,” and noting that “a new individual is added to the national transplant waiting list approximately every eight minutes.” The proclamation further emphasized the importance of education and action, adding that “the most effective way to address this critical need is through public education and by encouraging individuals to register their decision to become organ, eye, and tissue donors.”
Ward also encouraged local participation, proclaiming April as National Donate Life Month in Ozark and urging residents “to learn more about the lifesaving impact of donation and to register their decision to be organ, eye, and tissue donors.”
A second proclamation recognized Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month, underscoring the importance of fostering understanding and inclusion for individuals with autism. Ward’s proclamation emphasized community support and awareness efforts throughout the month.
Council members then moved into the regular agenda, where they approved minutes from the April 7 meeting and set the evening’s agenda without changes.
One of the key items approved was authorization for Ward to complete an application for the America 250 Alabama campaign designation. The initiative is part of a broader effort to prepare communities for the nation’s 250th anniversary, encouraging local participation in historical preservation and celebration activities.
The council also approved a $40,000 grant through the Wiregrass RC&D to fund repairs at the Flowers Center, a move aimed at maintaining and improving a facility frequently used for community events.
In matters concerning public safety and property conditions, the council voted to declare a structure at 245 Atlas Street a public nuisance due to dangerous conditions. A public hearing on the matter has been scheduled for May 5 at 5 p.m.
Additionally, council members approved a resolution to surplus property within the city’s administration department. This will allow the city to sell property not being used.
In other business not originally listed on the agenda, the council voted to appoint Jewnita Clark to the Ozark City Schools Board of Education. The appointment comes at the recommendation of Ward. Clark will fill the seat previously held by Theresa Locke, whom the council chose not to reappoint for a third term.
We spoke with Ms. Locke, and she expressed her support for the newly-appointed board member, saying, “I have confidence in her abilities, and I offered her my full support. I also offered to help in any way possible as she assumes this new role.”
The meeting concluded following brief comments from council members and city officials. The next meeting will be held on May 5, at 5:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers, located on the second floor of the Ozark Municipal Complex.
