The Scottsboro City Council worked through a full agenda Monday night, addressing issues that touched on economic development, infrastructure improvements, community events and local government obligations. In all, the council considered and approved a variety of measures, some unanimously and others with split votes.
The evening began with a public hearing on an alcohol license request for Courtyard Cucina, located at 3509 South Broad Street. No opposition was raised, and city staff confirmed that all building, zoning, and state requirements had been satisfied. With no questions from council members, the application was approved.
Council members then heard from Crystal Pittman of the Art Society of Jackson County, who requested a $1,500 tourism grant to support the upcoming Full Moon Art Festival. After discussion, the council voted to award a $1,000 grant, noting the event’s value to local tourism and community culture.
The council also advanced a rezoning request from Joey “Buck” Irving for property along Porter Road and Hwy. 72 near the city’s recently established rock quarry. The request was approved to move forward to a public hearing, which has been scheduled for Sept. 8.
Last week, a lengthier discussion was held regarding a cell tower proposal from TeleCAD. Project manager Matt Bates outlined plans for a 260-foot communications tower, with T-Mobile slated to be the first tenant. He said additional carriers, including AT&T and Verizon, would also have the opportunity to lease space.
Bates explained that the site had been selected to maximize coverage in Scottsboro, particularly downtown, where service has long been considered inadequate. The tower would be located approximately 600 to 1,000 feet from the nearest residences and still requires clearance from the Federal Aviation Administration.
Council President Richard Bailey spoke in support of the project, emphasizing the need for improved coverage in the city center. After debate, the council voted 3–2 to approve a ground lease agreement with TeleCAD, authorizing the mayor to finalize right-of-way details. Nita Tolliver, Patrick Stewart and Bailey voted in favor, while Donna Fredrick and Mike Ashburn opposed the measure.
In another step tied to economic development, the council approved a request from the Scottsboro Airport Authority and Martin Aviation to move forward with an additional aircraft maintenance hangar. Chris Martin of Martin Aviation said the expansion, expected to be between 10,000 and 12,000 square feet, would create high-paying jobs and attract corporate aircraft to the region.
The existing hangar, built seven years ago, has been fully utilized and will remain in operation. Martin noted that several companies have already expressed interest in basing corporate aircraft in Scottsboro, adding momentum to the expansion plan.
Council members also reviewed and approved significant infrastructure projects, including paving and drainage work on Ed Hembree Drive and Legion Drive. The projects are expected to cost up to $450,000, with funding drawn from the city’s street fund balance.
On Ed Hembree Drive, the work will extend from the Goose Pond Civic Center to the amphitheater entrance, with two cross drains replaced. On Legion Drive, paving will stretch from Heroes Drive to about 100 feet past recently installed drainage pipes, including part of the entrance into Veterans Park.
The Recreation Department presented two items for approval. First, the council authorized the department to declare various items surplus, including workout machines and lifeguard stands, with proceeds from the sales to return to the department’s general fund.
The council approved a budget amendment of $23,667 for HVAC replacements and upgrades at recreation facilities. Two units will be fully replaced, while another requires structural work to its curb.
As required each year, the council also adopted its transportation resolution under the Rebuild Alabama Act. The act mandates municipalities to designate how gas tax revenue will be used. Scottsboro is projected to receive $155,000 in 2026, which will be directed to a specific project once selected.
The Scottsboro City Council will reconvene for its next work session and regular meeting on Sept. 8.
