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HomeMy WebLinkAbout09-28-2026 City Council Meeting Minutes11505 STATE OF ALABAMA )( COUNTY OF BALDWIN )( The City Council, City of Fairhope, met in regular session at 6:00 p.m., Fairhope Municipal Complex Council Chamber, 161 North Section Street, Fairhope, Alabama 36532, on Mondav, 28 September 2026. Present were Council President Jimmy Conyers, Councilmembers: Jack Burrell, Joshua Gammon, Jay Robinson, and Andrea Booth, Mayor Sherry Sullivan, City Attorney Marcus E. McDowell, and City Clerk Lisa A. Hanks. There being a quorum present, Council President Conyers called the meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. The invocation was given by Council President Conyers, and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Councilmember Gammon moved to approve minutes of the September 14, 2026, regular meeting; and minutes of the September 14, 2026, work session. Seconded by Councilmember Booth, motion passed unanimously by voice vote. Mayor Sullivan addressed the City Council and introduced the Fairhope Junior City Councilmembers in attendance: Bethany Pierce (President), Avery Payne (Vice -President), and Claire Wang (Media Manager). Ms. Pierce addressed the City Council and said the next FJCC meeting will be on October 21, 2026 with Community Affairs Director Paige Crawford. Mayor Sullivan addressed the City Council regarding the following items: 1) Received $2,000,000.00 CDGB-DR grant for the 12" water main loop connector East of Fish River; and 2) Announced new greens at Quail Creek will open soon, new Golf Director Colin McKern will be at the next meeting; and this will be the last week for Bobby Hall the former Golf Director. She thanked him for his service to the City and Quail Creek Golf Course. Mayor Sullivan read the following FY2026 — 2027 Budget Statement: Good evening, I want to take a few minutes today to talk about the City of Fairhope's budget and, more importantly, what this budget means for our community. This year, the City of Fairhope's total budget is approximately $200 million, including both general government and our utilities. That is a big number, but it is important to remember that this includes everything from police and fire to parks, roads, drainage, water, wastewater, gas and electric services. 11506 28 September 2026 Our total budget is actually down almost 2% from last year, and I think that is important to point out. We are continuing to look for ways to operate leaner, be more efficient and make sure we are being good stewards of the money entrusted to us by our citizens and our utility customers. Revenues On the revenue side, we are seeing modest increases in most of our major revenue sources. Sales tax and lodging tax continue to show increases, and we are also seeing increases in simplified sellers use tax and property taxes. But not every revenue source is increasing. Business license revenues have been relatively flat or have decreased, and we have also seen a decrease in building -related permit fees. This budget also includes more than $12 million in grant funding from GOMESA, ADECA, Baldwin County, ALDOT, FEMA and individual donations for moving the Henry Stuart Hut. So, just like families and businesses have to do, the City has to look at what is coming in and make responsible decisions about how we spend those dollars. Utilities One of the largest areas of investment in this budget is our utility system. This year, we have $53.6 million in utility upgrades. The majority of that money will go toward water and wastewater. And I know these aren't always the most exciting projects to talk about because most of the time you don't see them. But they are some of the most important things we do. We have to make sure that when you turn on your faucet, you have water. When you flush your toilet, the system works. When you turn on your lights, the electricity is there. And when you need gas, we can provide it safely and reliably. We are continuing to upgrade our water and wastewater systems to serve the people who live here today while also preparing for the continued growth of our community. We will continue upgrading our electric infrastructure and continue the phased replacement of cast iron lines in our gas system. And, at the same time, our employees are doing the everyday work that most people never see — maintaining lift stations, water wells, pumps, electric lines, gas lines and all of the other infrastructure that keeps our city running. This past year, we completed the first phase of upgrades to our wastewater treatment plant. You will continue to see work there this year, as well as improvements to pipes throughout the system. We are also moving forward with a new water tower south of town. And we have nearly $2 million in equipment purchases planned, including a new vacuum truck, an electric bucket truck, a digger derrick truck and a dump truck. These aren't flashy purchases, but they are necessary equipment that allows our employees to do their jobs safely and efficiently. 11507 28 September 2026 Capital Improvements In addition to our utility investments, we have approximately $18 million in capital improvements, vehicles and equipment in the general fund. And there are a lot of projects in that number. We are building new parks, including Foundation Park at Hope Community. We are adding new lighting at our tennis courts and ball fields. We are moving the skate park to make room for a new gym at Volanta. We are making seawall improvements at Fairhope Docks. We are continuing the build -out of Flying Creek Nature Preserve. And we will begin engineering for a new industrial park near the airport. These are investments that help make Fairhope a great place to live, but they also help us prepare for the future. Public Safety Public safety continues to be one of our priorities. This year's budget includes a new $3 million police precinct, five new police vehicles and two additional police officers for patrol. We are also seeing the delivery of three new fire trucks that were ordered and paid for over the past three years. Again, these investments are about making sure our police officers and firefighters have the people, facilities and equipment they need to keep our community safe. Parks We are continuing to invest in our parks as well. There will be new playground equipment at Fel's Park, a new restroom at Colony Nature Park and continued improvements to parking at our parks. We are also building a new facility at the Barnwell Youth Football Complex, along with many other improvements throughout our park system. Our parks are a big part of what makes Fairhope special, and we want to make sure they remain places our families can enjoy for generations. Roads, Drainage and Traffic Another major investment this year is in roads, drainage and traffic. We have more than $8 million budgeted for these improvements. That includes paving and repairs on County Road 13 near Fairhope Avenue, paving throughout the city, drainage improvements on Cedar Avenue near Ingleside and sidewalks on Nichols Avenue and Edwards Avenue. And again, there is so much more that goes on behind the scenes. We will be repairing HVAC systems. 11508 28 September 2026 We will be working on elevator doors at the Recreation Center and parking garage. We will make traffic light improvements. We will replace heaters and make well improvements at the Nichols Street greenhouses. We will make improvements to recycling and landfill access. We will repair drainage at the Civic Center. We will replace flooring at the Nix Center. And there are literally hundreds of other smaller projects that have to happen every year to keep our buildings, facilities and infrastructure operating. Those things may not make the front page of the newspaper, but they matter. Our Employees And none of this — none of it — could happen without our employees. I want to emphasize that. We can budget for a new police precinct. We can budget for a new water tower. We can buy new trucks and equipment. But at the end of the day, it takes people to provide these services. And I am very proud of the employees who work for the City of Fairhope. Like everyone else, we are seeing the cost of salaries and benefits increase. This year, we completed an employee classification and compensation study to make sure our pay is competitive with the current job market. What we found is that we needed to increase minimum salaries throughout the city, particularly for entry-level positions. We are competing for employees with Chick-fil-A, Walmart, landscaping companies and many other businesses. And we have to be competitive if we want to attract and retain good employees. Healthcare is another significant expense. Just like families across Fairhope are seeing their healthcare costs increase, the City is seeing those costs increase as well. Providing health insurance and benefits for our employees is expensive, but it is important. Most of what our employees do is essential. They pick up your garbage. They maintain our water and wastewater systems. They repair electric lines. They respond to emergencies. They maintain our parks. They issue permits. 11509 28 September 2026 They answer your calls. They keep our streets and facilities operating. These are services that our community depends on every single day. So, making sure we have good people and that we can keep those good people is one of the most important investments we can make. This year, most of our new positions are related directly to growth and increased demand for services. We are adding positions in parks, custodial services, police, revenue, sanitation and three additional positions in our utility departments. I know that adding employees comes with a cost. But we also have to recognize that if our community grows and the demand for services grows, we have to have enough people to provide those services. Working Together And finally, I want to say something about teamwork. A budget of this size doesn't happen because of one person. It doesn't happen because of one department. It happens because people across this organization come together and do their jobs every day. And it happens because we have a City Council that is willing to work together to make decisions about the future of Fairhope. We may not always agree. We don't have to agree on everything. But I believe we all care deeply about this community, and we all want to see Fairhope continue to be a great place to live, work and raise a family. I am proud of the work our employees do every day. I am proud of the investments we are making in our infrastructure, our utilities, our parks, our roads and our public safety. And I am proud that we are continuing to look for ways to do more while being responsible with the resources we have. There is always more that needs to be done. There always will be. But when I look at this budget, I see a city that is investing in today while preparing for tomorrow. And I am grateful to everyone who plays a part in making that happen — our employees, our department heads, our City Council and, most importantly, the citizens of Fairhope who entrust us with the responsibility of serving this community. Thank you. 11510 28 September 2026 Councilmember Gammon thanked the Mayor, City Treasurer and her Staff regarding the FY2026 — 2027 Budget. He said this was the first time for him to review a budget; and it has great stuff in it. Councilmember Booth said that she and Councilmember Gammon were doing CAPZO webinar training to be a Certified Alabama Planning and Zoning Official. Council President Conyers thanked Mayor and Staff for their work on the FY2026 — 2027 Budget. A Public Hearing was held as advertised on a proposed ordinance to amend Zoning Ordinance No. 1253. Councilmember Robinson introduced in writing an ordinance to zone the property of Michael Jason Tickle to R-1, Low Density Single - Family Residential District with conditional Annexation. The property is located on the east side of South Section Street, south of Twin Beech Road and is 20.11± acres. PPIN#28640. The Planning Commission gave a favorable recommendation of this ordinance. Council President Conyers read the proposed ordinance. Planning Director Hunter Simmons briefly explained the proposed ordinance. Council President Conyers opened the Public Hearing at 6:24 p.m. No one present opposed the proposed ordinance, the Public Hearing closed at 6:25 p.m. Wade Graham with Jade Consulting, LLC addressed the City Council to answer questions. Councilmember Gammon questioned how many lots per acre. Mr. Graham stated it should be 1.39 lots per acre. Councilmember Gammon asked if the owner would do a "Self-imposed Voluntary Condition of 1.39 lots per acre?" Jason Tickle, owner of the property, said he is only requesting zoning tonight. Planning Director Simmons said if you specify a condition, it would have to be readvertised. Councilmember Burrell said he did not see why it must be readvertised. Attorney Chris Williams said it must be readvertised pursuant to State law. Council President Conyers stated it should not have self-imposed lots for 1.39 per acre. Councilmember Robinson said it is unfair to do this to everyone. Mr. Simmons explained we cannot put conditions on subdivision outside City limits. Mr. Wade committed they would be submitting subdivision after approval. Due to lack of a motion for immediate consideration, this ordinance will layover until the October 12, 2026 City Council meeting. Councilmember Robinson introduced in writing an ordinance repealing Ordinance No. 1478: Compensation and Job Classifications adopted in 2012. Due to lack of a motion for immediate consideration, this ordinance will layover until the October 12, 2026 City Council meeting. 11511 28 September 2026 Councilmember Burrell introduced in writing an ordinance to repeal and replace Ordinance No. 1817, and Establishing Impact Fees on New Development in the City of Fairhope, Alabama. Due to lack of a motion for immediate consideration, this ordinance will layover until the October 12, 2026 City Council meeting. Councilmember Booth introduced in writing an ordinance of the City of Fairhope, Alabama, to authorize posting of all legal advertisements, ordinances of a general or permanent nature, and publication for all other City notifications pursuant to Alabama Law. Due to lack of a motion for immediate consideration, this ordinance will layover until the October 12, 2026 City Council meeting. Planning Director Hunter Simmons addressed the City Council to explain the Site Plan Review and Request by Murphy Oil USA, Inc., on behalf of the owner RW Battles, LLC, located at 18186 Wright Blvd. and is 1.14 f acres. PPIN #391372, Fairhope, Alabama for a proposed Murphy Oil Automobile Service Station. Councilmember Burrell moved to approve the Site Plan property owned by RW Battles, LLC listed above with Staff's five conditions. Seconded by Councilmember Robinson, motion passed unanimously by voice vote. Councilmember Booth introduced in writing, and moved for the adoption of the following resolution, a resolution that the City Council approves and adopts the following recommendations received by Evergreen Solutions, LLC, the Fairhope Personnel Board, and Mayor Sherry Sullivan for the Classifications and Pay Grades for City Employees. Seconded by Councilmember Robinson, motion passed unanimously by voice vote. RESOLUTION NO.5915-26 BE IT RESOLVED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF FAIRHOPE, ALABAMA, That the City Council approves and adopts the following recommendations received by Evergreen Solutions, LLC, the Fairhope Personnel Board, and Mayor Sherry Sullivan for the Classifications and Pay Grades for City Employees. ADOPTED THIS 28TH DAY OF SEPTEMBER, 2026 Jam eid Conyers, J . Co cil President ATTEST: sa A. H nks, MC Zr� City Clerk 11512 28 September 2026 Councilmember Gammon introduced in writing, and moved for the adoption of the following resolution, a resolution that the Fairhope City Council gratefully accepts the Deed of Gift for the Parcel located across from the Flying Creek Nature Preserve f/k/a the Triangle Property from the Fairhope Single Tax Corporation to the City of Fairhope; and authorizes the Mayor to sign any documents necessary to complete the transfer. Seconded by Councilmember Booth, motion passed unanimously by voice vote. RESOLUTION NO.5916-26 BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FAIRHOPE, ALABAMA, That the Fairhope City Council gratefully accepts the Deed of Gift for the Parcel located across from the Flying Creek Nature Preserve f/k/a the Triangle Property from the Fairhope Single Tax Corporation to the City of Fairhope; and authorizes the Mayor to sign any documents necessary to complete the transfer. Adopted on this 28th day of S tember, 2026 Jam Reid Conyers, J Co cil President ATTEST: a A�s, MCt City Clerk Councilmember Robinson introduced in writing, and moved for the adoption of the following resolution, a resolution that the City Council reviews, approves and adopts the proposed FY2027 Budget. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Booth. Councilmember Burrell commented it is a living document. Councilmember Robinson stated it is a plan and can be changed if needed. Councilmember Gammon said it is a great budget and a level of trust for Staff. He stated, in the future we need to batten down hatch. Councilmember Gammon requested that his questions regarding the FY2026 — 2027 be included in the minutes. (Please see questions with City answers at the end of these minutes). Council President Conyers said it is a balanced budget and thanked everyone for their help, but he said it is not sustainable. After further discussion, motion passed unanimously by voice vote. RESOLUTION NO.5917-26 BE IT RESOLVED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF FAIRHOPE, ALABAMA, that the proposed Budget presented and reviewed the 28th day of September 2026, hereby approved, and adopted for the FY 2026-2027; and that the following estimates of revenues and expenses, as related thereto, are hereby adopted; and those revenues and expenses are appropriated as follows: 11513 28 September 2026 GENERAL FUND: Total Revenue and Transfers In $62,924,645 Total Expenditures and Transfers Out $62.924.645 SANITATION FUND: Total Revenue & Transfer In $4,655,390 Total Expenditures & Transfers Out $4.655,390 GAS FUND: Total Revenue & Transfer In $17.220,646 Total Expenditures & Transfers Out $17.220.646 ELECTRIC FUND: Total Revenue & Transfer In $26,154,470 Total Expenditures & Transfers Out $26.154.470 WATERIWASTEWATER FUND: Total Revenue & Transfer In $68,385,872 Expenditures & Transfers Out Water Department $37,845,582 Waste Water Department $30,540,290 Total Expenditures & Transfer Out $68.385.872 CAPITAL PROJECT FUND: Total Revenue & Transfer In $15,902,087 Total Expenditures & Transfers Out $15.902.087 IMPACT FEES FUND: Total Revenue & Transfer In $4,691,443 Total Expenditures & Transfers Out $4.691.443 GAS TAX FUND: Total Revenue & Transfer In $120,500 Total Expenditures & Transfers Out $120.500 REBUILD ALABAMA FUND: Total Revenue & Transfer In $211,300 Total Expenditures & Transfers Out $211.300 MUNICIPAL CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND: Total Revenue & Transfer In $230,000 Total Expenditures & Transfers Out 2 000 CORRECTION FUND: Total Revenue & Transfer In $170,000 Total Expenditures & Transfers Out $170.000 TOTAL FYE 2027 BUDGET $200.666.351 11514 28 September 2026 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Annual Salaries of City Personnel shall be as shown on a list entitled Annual Salaries of All City Personnel; and said list filed in the Office of the City Treasurer and of Human Resources; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council hereby authorizes the portion of the Sales and Use Tax revenue for FY 2026-2027 that is restricted in the General Fund Debt Pre - Payment Account can be used for General Fund operations up to $3,100,000.00 reduction; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council hereby authorizes the portion of the Sales and Use Tax revenue FY 2026-2027 that is restricted in the Capital Project Fund (Infrastructure Improvement Special Fund) can be used for General Fund operations up to the $3,100,000.00 and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council hereby authorizes the City Treasurer to perform Administrative Budget Transfers, as needed throughout the Fiscal Year. Directors are expected to operate within the funding appropriate for their department. Should a funding increase be required, a written request is to be submitted to the Treasurer and Mayor with a limit not to exceed $20,000.00. All Administrative Budget Transfers are documented and tracked in the City's financial management system; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council hereby approves merit raises for the City of Fairhope employees as defined in the proposed budget that may become effective on anniversary of hire date. DULY ADOPTED THIS 28TH DAY OF SEPTEMBER, 2026 Ves"Conyerr. ATTEST: isa A),Ilanks, M C City Clerk Councilmember Burrell introduced in writing, and moved for the adoption of the following resolution, a resolution that the City Council desires to use Impact Fees account for equipment and projects that meet the criteria and are in the FY2027 Proposed Budget. Seconded by Councilmember Booth, motion passed unanimously by voice vote. 11515 28 September 2026 RESOLUTION NO. 5918-26 WHEREAS, the City of Fairhope adopted Ordinance No. 1817, An Ordinance repealing and replacing Ordinance No. 1625 to establish Impact Fees on new development in the City of Fairhope on December 19, 2024 in accordance with Act No. 2006-300 enacted by the Legislature of Alabama on April 4, 2006; and WHEREAS, the City desires to use funds for "Police" which is a Benefit Area for (i) the cost recovery of the City's cost and expense related to the construction, development and improvement of its justice center, (ii) the cost recovery of the City's cost and expense related to the construction, development and improvement of its animal shelter, (iii) the acquisition of police vehicles, and (iv) the acquisition of police -related apparatus and equipment, and (v) the police component of the "Impact Fee Study" prepared by TischlerBise; and WHEREAS, the City desires to use funds for "Fire" which is a Benefit Area for (i) the construction, development and/or improvement of fire stations, (ii) the acquisition of fire fighting vehicles, and (iii) the acquisition of firefighting apparatus, and (iv) the fire component of the "Impact Fee Study" prepared by TischlerBise; and WHEREAS, the City desires to use funds for "Transportation" which is a Benefit Area for the cost of intersection improvements made to address additional demand generated by New Development and the transportation component of the "Impact Fee Study" prepared by TischlerBise; and WHEREAS, the City desires to use funds for "Parks and Recreation" which is a Benefit Area for (i) the acquisition of new public parks lands, (ii) the construction, development and/or improvement of public recreational facilities, (iii) the construction, development and/or improvement of public park amenities, (iv) the acquisition of new park vehicles, and (v) the parks and recreation component of the "Impact Fee Study" prepared by TischlerBise; and WHEREAS, the following project shall be paid from the Impact Fees Account and have met the criteria stated to be paid from said Account: 11516 28 September 2026 TRANS- PARKS I POLICE FIRE PORTATION RECREATION I TOTAL FY2027 BUDGET I PROJECTS I New Police precinct construction $1,300,000 $1,300,000 Adding Truck to Recreational Dept $55,000 $55,000 IAdding Tractor to l Recreational Dept I $49,500 $49,500 Design of new Basketball Gymnasium $125,000 $125,000 Parking Improvements and Expansion for the Recreation Center/Pool $500,000 $500,000 Tractor for Flying Creek Park $40,000 $40,000 Drainage -Capital Project Fund $465,000 {{ $465,000 Impact Fees FY 2027 $1,300,000 $0 $465,000 $$769,500 I $2,534,500 NOW BE IT RESOLVED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF FAIRHOPE, ALABAMA, That the City Council hereby authorizes Mayor Sherry Sullivan to expend Impact Fees for the above projects as designated from the Impact Fee Account for services for the "Police," "Fire," "Transportation," and "Parks and Recreation" Benefit Areas. DULY ADOPTED THIS 28TH DAY OF SEPTEMBER, 2026 JaXncil Reid Conyers, J . Co President ATTEST: AAH ks, M M C City Clerk Councilmember Booth introduced in writing, and moved for the adoption of the following resolution, a resolution that the City Council approves and adopts the recommendations to fund new positions, reclassify positions, defund and delete positions as presented in the FY2027 Budget. Seconded by Councilmember Burrell, motion passed unanimously by voice vote. 11517 28 September 2026 RESOLUTION NO.5919-26 BE IT RESOLVED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF FAIRHOPE, ALABAMA, That the City Council approves and adopts the recommendations to fund new positions and approve Pay Grades; reclassify positions; defund; and delete positions as presented in the FY2027 Budget as follows: Pay I Prior Position Name Department Status Grade Grade New Positions: Environmental Intern Planning I PT FLAT Revenue Technician I Revenue FT 109 Police Officer (2) Police FT 204 School I I I Resource Officer Police PT 204 Corrections Officer I Corrections I FT 202 Marina Worker I Marina PT 101 Parks Maintenance Worker I Recreation I FT I 107 Tennis Facility Maintenance Worker I Recreation I FT 107 Custodian Facilities Maintenance FT 104 Park Ranger Intern Parks , PT FLAT Sanitation Hopper I Sanitation I FT 107 GPS Technician I Gas I FT 112 Groundworker Electric I I FT I 112 Line Locate Supervisor Utilities Engineering FT 115 Reclassifications/Title Changes Lead Grower Facilities Manager Streets Manager Gas Construction Technician I1 Gas Construction Technician III Lineworker (3) Electric Operations Manager Fire Hydrant Technician Water Service Technician II (3) Defunding: (2) Corrections Officer Permit Technician GPS Technician Landscape , FT 112 Ill Facilities Maintenance Streets I FT FT 120 114 Gas 120 I 120 FT 110 108 IGas FT I 112 110 Electric I Electric I FT FT 118 122 114 Water FT 112 123 114 Water I FT 110 108 Police Department PT I 202 Building Inspections FT 109 Gas I PT 112 11518 28 September 2026 ADOPTED THIS 28TH DAY OF SEPTEMBER, 2026 Ja� eid Conyers / Co cil President ATTEST: I� A. $ s, M C City Clerk Councilmember Gammon introduced in writing, and moved for the adoption of the following resolution, a resolution that the City Council authorizes the submittal of an application to the Alabama Historical Commission's Certified Local Government Grant program for the Fairhope Historic Preservation Commission and authorizes Mayor Sherry Sullivan to sign any and all necessary documentation. If awarded, the grant will fund a Historic Resources Survey. The maximum grant award is $29,999.40 and requires a 40% match; therefore, the City's portion would be $19,999.60. Seconded by Councilmember Burrell, motion passed unanimously by voice vote. RESOLUTION NO.5920-26 BE IT RESOLVED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF FAIRHOPE, ALABAMA, That the City Council authorizes the submittal of an application to the Alabama Historical Commission's Certified Local Government Grant program for the Fairhope Historic Preservation Commission; and authorizes Mayor Sherry Sullivan to sign any and all necessary documentation. If awarded, the grant will fund a Historic Resources Survey in the amount of $49,999.00. The maximum grant award is $29,999.40 and requires a 40% match; therefore, the City's portion would be $19,999.60. DULY ADOPTED THIS 28TH DAY OF SEPTEMBER, 2026 J es Reid Conyer , r. ouncil President ATTEST: a A. s, V City Cie 11519 28 September 2026 Councilmember Gammon introduced in writing, and moved for the adoption of the following resolution, a resolution that the City Council to reject all bids (Bid No. 26-045-2026-WAT-011) Water Treatment Plant #1 Liquid Treatment Upgrades; and authorize the re -bid of the project under Code of Alabama 1975, Section 41-16- 57(d). Seconded by Councilmember Burrell, motion passed unanimously by voice vote. RESOLUTION NO. 5921-26 BE IT RESOLVED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF FAHMOPE, ALABAMA, as follows: [1] That the City Council to reject all bids (Bid No. 26-045-2026-WAT-011) Water Treatment Plant #1 Liquid Treatment Upgrades; and authorize the re -bid of the project under Code of Alabama 1975, Section 41-16-57(d). ADOPTED ON THIS 28TH DAY OF SEPTEMBER, 2026 Ja Reid Conger , r. Co ncil President ATTEST: A. anks, MMC City Clerk Councilmember Gammon introduced in writing, and moved for the adoption of the following resolution, a resolution that the Fairhope City Council approves the submittal of a RESTORE grant application for the North Beach Restoration Project in the amount of $8,927,380.00 and authorizes Mayor Sherry Sullivan to sign any and all necessary documents. If awarded, the project will be phased over multiple years to include engineering, design, and construction. Components of the project will include; duck pond and engineered wetland restoration, stormwater management improvements, shoreline and bluff restoration, public access, recreational and mobility improvements and more. No match is required. Seconded by Councilmember Booth, motion passed unanimously by voice vote. 11520 28 September 2026 RESOLUTION NO.5922-26 BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FAIRHOPE, ALABAMA, [ 1 ] That the Fairhope City Council approves the submittal of a RESTORE grant application for the North Beach Restoration Project in the amount of $8,927,380.00 and authorizes Mayor Sherry Sullivan to sign any and all necessary documents. If awarded, the project will be phased over multiple years to include engineering, design, and construction. Components of the project will include; duck pond and engineered wetland restoration, stormwater management improvements, shoreline and bluff restoration, public access, recreational and mobility improvements and more. No match is required. DULY ADOPTED THIS 28TH DAY OF SEPTEMBER 2026 l (as Reid Conyers,, �r. Council President ATTEST: A. s, gt Cler Councilmember Booth introduced in writing, and moved for the adoption of the following resolution, a resolution that the Fairhope City Council authorizes submission of a RESTORE grant in the amount of $13,255,000.00 for City of Fairhope Wastewater Treatment Plan Phase II Improvements; and authorizes Mayor Sherry Sullivan to sign any and all necessary documents. If awarded, the funding would cover multiple components of the wastewater treatment upgrade including: engineering and design for control building, UV disinfection, solids handling, digesters, order control for headworks and new digesters. There is no match requirement. Seconded by Councilmember Burrell, motion passed unanimously by voice vote. 11521 28 September 2026 RESOLUTION NO.5923-26 BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FAIRHOPE, ALABAMA, That the Fairhope City Council authorizes submission of a RESTORE grant in the amount of $13,255,000.00 for City of Fairhope Wastewater Treatment Plan Phase II Improvements; and authorizes Mayor Sherry Sullivan to sign any and all necessary documents. If awarded, the funding would cover multiple components of the wastewater treatment upgrade including: engineering and design for control building, UV disinfection, solids handling, digesters, order control for headworks and new digesters. There is no match requirement. DULY ADOPTED THIS 28TH DAY OF SEPTEMBER 026 eid Conyers, Co ncil President ATTEST: sa A. H nks, M City Clerk Councilmember Gammon introduced in writing, and moved for the adoption of the following resolution, a resolution that Mayor Sherry Sullivan is hereby authorized to execute a contract with Goodwyn Mills Cawood for (RFQ PS26-036) Professional Engineering Services - Coastal Engineering Services for Beach Monitoring - Magnolia Beach with a not -to -exceed amount of $80,000.00 for three (3) years. Seconded by Councilmember Booth, motion passed unanimously by voice vote. RESOLUTION NO.5924-26 BE IT RESOLVED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF FAIRHOPE, ALABAMA, That Mayor Sherry Sullivan is hereby authorized to execute a contract with Goodwyn Mills Cawood for (RFQ PS26-036) Professional Engineering Services - Coastal Engineering Services for Beach Monitoring - Magnolia Beach with a not -to -exceed amount of $80,000.00 for three (3) years. DULY ADOPTED THIS 28TH DAY O P BER, 2026 Jame eid Conyers, i Cou cil President Attest: sa A. anks, MM City Clerk 11522 28 September 2026 Councilmember Burrell introduced in writing, and moved for the adoption of the following resolution, a resolution that the City of Fairhope approves the procurement of a 2027 New Way Sidewinder XTR Automated Side Loader — 24 cubic yard with Severe Refuse Package Garbage Truck that is on Sourcewell (Contract #110223-NWY) with Sansom Equipment Company and therefore does not have to be let out for bid. The total amount not -to -exceed $339,629.00 plus freight. The cost is included in the FY2027 Proposed Budget. Seconded by Councilmember Gammon, motion passed unanimously by voice vote. RESOLUTION NO. 5925-26 BE IT RESOLVED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF FAHMOPE, ALABAMA, as follows: [ 1 ] That the City of Fairhope approves the procurement of a 2027 New Way Sidewinder XTR Automated Side Loader - 24 cubic yard with Severe Refuse Package Garbage Truck that is on Sourcewell (Contract #110223-NWY) with Sansom Equipment Company and therefore does not have to be let out for bid. The total amount not -to -exceed $339,629.00 plus freight. The cost is included in the FY2027 Proposed Budget. ADOPTED ON THIS 28TH DAY OF SEPTEMBER, 2026 gJa Reid Conyer r. C ncil President Attest: a A. nks, dMMM City Clerk Councilmember Burrell introduced in writing, and moved for the adoption of the following resolution, a resolution that Mayor Sherry Sullivan is hereby authorized to execute a contract with Gridco, Inc. for Professional Engineering Services for (RFQ PS26-024) for the Joint Use Attachment Survey and GIS Entry for the City Electric Department with a not -to -exceed contract amount of $204,360.00. Seconded by Councilmember Gammon, motion passed unanimously by voice vote. Councilmember Burrell commented this will help recover lost monies. 11523 28 September 2026 RESOLUTION NO.5926-26 BE IT RESOLVED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF FAIRHOPE, ALABAMA, That Mayor Sherry Sullivan is hereby authorized to execute a contract with Gridco, Inc. for Professional Engineering Services for (RFQ PS26-024) for the Joint Use Attachment Survey and GIS Entry for the City Electric Department with a not -to -exceed amount of $204,360.00. DULY ADOPTED THIS 28TH DAY OF SEPTEMBER. 2026 Jame eid Conyers, Jr. Cou it President Attest: 16:! A. Han s, MMC City Clerk Councilmember Booth introduced in writing, and moved for the adoption of the following resolution, a resolution that the City Council hereby approves the Homecoming Parade in Downtown Fairhope for Fairhope High School on Thursday, October 8, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. as well as the use of the Fairhope Beach Pavilion; and immediately following the parade for the bonfire pep rally. The route begins at the Fairhope Civic Center to Fairhope Avenue; right on Fairhope Avenue; then right to Pavilion. The City will provide for Public Safety. Seconded by Councilmember Burrell, motion passed unanimously by voice vote. RESOLUTION NO.5927-26 BE IT RESOLVED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF FAIRHOPE, ALABAMA, That the City Council hereby approves the Homecoming Parade in Downtown Fairhope for Fairhope High School on Thursday, October 8, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. as well as the use of the Fairhope Beach Pavilion; and immediately following the parade for the bonfire pep rally. The route begins at the Fairhope Civic Center to Fairhope Avenue; right on Fairhope Avenue; then right to Pavilion. The City will provide for Public Safety. ADOPTED ON THIS 28TH DAY OF SEPTEMBER. 2026 r' J Reid Conyers, J . Co ncil President Attest: sa A. nks, MMeC City Clerk 11524 28 September 2026 Councilmember Booth introduced in writing, and moved for the adoption of the following resolution, a resolution That the City Council accepts the name change on the lease from Theatre 98, Inc. to Theatre 98 of Baldwin County, Inc. Seconded by Councilmember Gammon, motion passed unanimously by voice vote. RESOLUTION NO.5928-26 WHEREAS, on July 27, 2015, via Ordinance No. 1544, the City Council authorized the execution of a Municipal Lease Agreement between the City of Fairhope, Alabama ("Lessor") and Theatre 98, Inc. ("Lessee") for use of the premises located at 350 Morphy Avenue, Fairhope, Alabama; and WHEREAS, in 1984 Lessee was granted 501(c)(3) from the IRS under Theatre 98 of Baldwin County, Inc. and new Articles of Incorporation filed in the Baldwin County Probate Court; and WHEREAS, the Lessee requests that the City Council corrects the name on the lease that was renewed for an additional ten (10) years via Resolution No. 5523-25, with the same terms and conditions, on July 28, 2025. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF FAIRHOPE, That the City Council accepts the name change on the lease from Theatre 98, Inc. to Theatre 98 of Baldwin County, Inc. Adopted on this 28th day of September, 2026 Jam eid Conyers, J Co cil President Attest: r A. Ha}iks, 1VfM City Clerk Councilmember Booth moved to grant the request of Fairhope East K-6 Parent Teacher Corporation, Fairhope West Parent Teacher Partnership, and J. Larry Newton Parent Teacher Organization, are requesting permission to close the streets in downtown Fairhope on Saturday, February 27, 2027, from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. for the 12th Annual "The Pirate Dash"; and requesting electricity at the starting/ending point of the race on the bluff (Henry George Bluff) with barricades at major road intersections to protect our runners. Seconded by Councilmember Robinson, motion passed unanimously by voice vote. 11525 28 September 2026 Councilmember Gammon moved to grant the request of Rhydonna Moseley, Executive Director of Fairhope Educational Enrichment Foundation (FEEF), Requesting to serve beer and alcohol on Thursday, November 12, 2026, and Friday, November 13, 2026, for FEEF's Tennis Tournament to be held at the Mike Ford Tennis Center at 600 Morphy Avenue. Dinner on Thursday and brunch on Friday are included with registration for all players. These beverages will be available in accordance with Alabama Alcohol Beverage Control guidelines. Seconded by Councilmember Booth, motion passed unanimously by voice vote. Councilmember Burrell introduced in writing, and moved for the adoption of the following resolution, a resolution that the City Council authorizes and directs the Mayor to execute and deliver, on behalf of the City, a term sheet with the Lender respecting the Warrant. Seconded by Councilmember Booth, motion passed unanimously by voice vote. Councilmember Gammon commented this has been vetted and looked over. Councilmember Burrell said we picked out the best. RESOLUTION NO. 5929-26 BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council (the "Council") of the CITY OF FAIRHOPE (the "City"), as follows: Section 1. Findings. The Council has ascertained and does hereby find and declare as follows: (a) the City has an outstanding General Obligation Water and Sewer Warrant, Series 2026-A, dated May 1, 2026 (the "PNC Warrant"), payable to PNC Bank, which matures on November 1, 2026, (b) the City, through its financial advisor, PFM Financial Advisors, LLC, has requested, received, and reviewed proposals from various commercial banking and underwriting firms to refinance the PNC Warrant prior to maturity, and (c) the City has determined that the response (the "Terms Sheet") of Webster Public Finance Corporation ("Webster"), attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference, is the most advantageous and desirable for the City. Section 2. Approval of Terms Sheet. In order to lock -in the interest rate offered by Webster, the Terms Sheet described above is hereby approved and authorized. Section 3. Authorization to Execute. The executive officers of the City are authorized to accept the Terms Sheet on behalf of the City and to execute and deliver the same. 11526 28 September 2026 Section 4. Notice of Meeting to Consider Issuance. The City expects to consider an ordinance issuing its General Obligation Water and Sewer Warrant, Series 2026-B, to be dated the date of delivery (the "Webster Warrant"), at its October 12, 2026 regular meeting and to issue the Webster Warrant to refinance the PNC Warrant no later than October 31, 2026. Section 5. Further Action. The executive officers of the City are authorized to take such actions and to execute and deliver such other documents, contracts, and agreements as are necessary to issue the Webster Warrant and to refinance the PNC Warrant as described herein. ATTEST: isa A. arks, MMC City Clerk Items: ADOPTED this the 28th of September, 2026 CITY OF FAIRHOPE A Municipal Corporation Ja s Reid Cony r. Council President The following individuals spoke during Public Participation for Non -Agenda 1) Gary Gover, 300 Lincoln Street, addressed the City Council regarding copper wire junction boxes that are cluttered all over the City. He asked, "what is the best way to enforce this? Councilmember Burrell replied a few years ago, we met with all providers regarding lines and what we expected from them. He said this may be an option. 2) Lynn Ellis, 312 Majestic Beauty Avenue, addressed the City Council regarding the flock camera issues. Councilmember Booth said we do not have these in the City. Mayor Sullivan explained that the City cannot enforce these on Federal, State, or County roads. Councilmember Gammon suggested she reach out to our State Legislators: Representative Jennifer Fidler and Senator Chris Elliott. 3) Claire Wang, Fairhope Junior City Councilmember, addressed the City Council regarding a competitive pool being added to the budget and putting it next to the school. Mayor Sullivan replied we could look at the new property; and we can do improvements at the outside pool. 11527 28 September 2026 Councilmember Robinson moved to adjourn the meeting. Seconded by Councilmember Burrell, motion passed unanimously by voice vote. There being no further business to come before the City Council, the meeting was duly adjourned at 7:30 p.m. Ja ev�id Conyers, Jr., Counc President isa A.Is, M C City Clerk 11528 28 September 2026 Councilmember Gammon's Questions regarding the FY2026 — 2027 Budget and City of Fairhope' responses. Where are we projecting to end the year on city sales tax? The number seems a little low in budget? Estimated year end $11,030,000.00. Previous Council had directed me to budget conservative. Due to Simplified Sellers Use Tax (SSUT), the local sales tax is not increasing like in past years. Wine tax in PJ just seems wildly low, for years? Wine tax is paid by the distributors, and the tax is 5% of wholesale price. Why such a jump, and fluctuation over the years, in consumer use tax? FY2027 Budget is based on FY2025 actuals. Major jump in our 26 actual to 27 budget. Same question for the financial institute tax. FY2027 Budget was based on average of FY2024 and FY2025. I'd advise reaching out to our inside the city and PJ lodging tax businesses. What are their projections? That is not how this has been handled in the past but can certainly do that moving forward if that is how council wants to project the revenue. How do we determine the increases in admin services charges from the utilities? Is this a straight formula by ordinance? If salaries and benefits increase, the admin services charges increase. Treasury took over the budget process when Mayor Sullivan was elected. Treasury has continued to use the same spreadsheet/calculations that have been used for years. I found files from FY2014 that use the same spreadsheet. How much of the police budget is NOT related to the new precinct? Can you outline what the increase in operational spending would be without a new precinct being built? Also, what are total costs associated with the new build? The new precinct accounts for $3 million of the proposed police budget. The increase in operational spending outside of the new precinct is primarily attributable to the following items: Motorola Annual Cloud Storage — $80,000 Investigative Research Resource — $18,000 Laptop Replacements — $25,000 Two Additional Police Vehicles, including all necessary equipment — $253,600 Animal Control Vehicle Conversion Kit — $20,000 Dispatch Radio Console Replacements — $168,000 These items represent a total of $564,600 in additional operational expenditures. What does the line "other employee insurance" represent? Employer provided benefits, such as Life Insurance with AD&D, STD, LTD, and ComPsych annual fees. What is driving the increase in professional services and legal fees in GGA? Addition of HUD Grants Management expense. 11529 28 September 2026 Revenue Department salaries are up 11% with only one addition to staff at 55k. Why so much versus actual this year? Actuals are through August, and still have an additional month of expense. Also, we have adjustments budgeted to Revenue Salaries for proposed adoption of Evergreen Study pay/classification scale. The Evergreen scale included increases for most of the customer service staff to bring them up to the minimum of the new pay grade. The salaries also include a 3% merit increase for each employee that managers have the ability to give based on performance. Those are given on an employee's anniversary date. A large increase there in training/travel as well vs actuals. Why? The actuals normally run around $11-12K, in FY26 we had to send a staff member from this department to a training that was included in General Admin's Training budget. They sent a different employee due to an employee being sick and not able to attend and so we did not lose registration. Planning department salaries show only a 2% increase, but it's much closer to 33% compared to 25 and 26 actuals. I only see an intern being added. Adding Code Enforcement Officer. Why such a massive increase? How many positions aren't getting filled? There is a city Planner position and code enforcement officer position that are vacant. Both are in the interview process. They have been slow to fill just based on having time to interview and vet candidates. They had hired a code enforcement officer and when the admin assistant left, they promoted the new code enforcement to that position and then had to fill it again. Also, they were letting the Planning manager get his feet under him so he could help with the planning hire. What is going on with professional services over the years? Nothing, then a massive spike, then nothing, now another spike. Several things included this year but the largest is related to the zoning ordinances and waiting for that to be complete so we can move to the next phase of clean up. Included items are below: 1. Zoning Ordinances & Subdivision Regulations, $150K, cleaning up all regulations, formatting documents, legal review, etc. 2. Third party review, and engineering, when needed 3. Zoning Ordinances & Subdivision Regulations, $159K, cleaning up regulations, formatting documents, legal review 4. B&P & LID workshops 5. ACAMP grant, $50k match stormwater and LID techniques, cannot start until after Oct. This has already been approved by council resolution. Same question with building salaries as planning. Why the large jump? Vacant positions (Chief Building Inspector & Permit Tech) along with Salary Adjustments attributable to Adoption of Evergreen Study pay/classification scale. There is also a 3% performance merit allocation for each employee built into this number. Professional services also very high compared to actuals over the last 3 years. Why the jump? Historic Preservation District study $35K was in FY26 Budget but not yet done. It is in the FY27 proposed budget. We are also applying for some potential grant funding that is on the agenda Monday night. 11530 28 September 2026 Police vehicle purchases are very high. I'd like us to be presented with different options, take another look at size requirements, and inquire about the two electric options being offered by Ford and Chevy. Based on the fact we own the fuel, and prices are very high for gasoline, I think it is worth comparing. Analysis of different options will need to be done. Currently in-house Fleet Maintenance/Mech Shop keeps up all maintenance for the Police vehicles. Electric vehicle on -going maintenance will need to be part of analysis. Why is civic center general maintenance and small equipment so much higher versus actuals and years past? Replacement of Tables & Chairs for $43K has been in the budget and ordered but has not yet been received. Rolled over into FY27 Budget. When was our last increase in library appropriations? And what was the increase? In 2024, the appropriation went from $875,000.00 to $918,750.00 and there has not been an increase since. Golf salaries is the same question as planning, why the increase versus actuals? The greens renovation project affected the amount of play on the course which directly affects the number of employees. Less play equals less employees needed and results in lower actual salary expense. Also, there is a lot of turnover for cart attendants. My concerns with golf expenses remain from the sit sit-down session. I'll go into more depth during Monday's meeting. I have serious concerns with pro shop expenses. We are instituting Inventory at end of the year as of 09/30/26. This will reduce the Pro -Shop expense for items that have not yet been sold. The value of these items will be moved to the balance sheet. Also, the new golf director is doing an inventory sale in November, and you will see a change in the Pro shop, less inventory and better pricing. Am I right that facilities was split off from streets? If so that's around an 11% increase in spending YoY. What's driving this upper end of departmental increase? The increase is mainly attributable to the increase in the Capital line items. In 001350- 50470 Capital Vehicles & Equipment Purchases we are adding a Street Sweeper at $365K when in FY26 we added a Skid Steer & Wheel Roller which totaled about $145K. Also, the increase in Capital Improvements for additional Roundabout Art Project in FY2027 of $255K.