Fall is definitely in the air and that brings changes for all of us to enjoy. The city of Trussville continues to see changes as we move forward with a vision shared by many.
A new downtown intersection with full access to turn lanes and red lights for safer travels in the area has been completed. New construction continues in downtown with the anticipation of Rodney Scott’s BBQ and Hero Doughnuts opening after the first of the year. In our Entertainment District, both Pinchgut Pies and Mexicali Blues restaurants have opened with great success. Both east and west mixed use buildings are under construction with future restaurants, retail, office space and condos planned for each.
The city will light up downtown this year with all new Christmas decorations, including new seasonal banners, trees, garland and bows, and more. Our annual Christmas caroling and tree lighting will take place this month.
The annual Christmas parade will follow its usual route in December. New decorations will be displayed outside of the library to be enjoyed through the holiday season.
The new Trussville Police Training building is open and is a huge improvement from the old building next to City Hall. The council approved new AEDs (defibrillators) to be in all police vehicles for our continued commitment to public safety. The council also approved new auto powered stretchers for our fire department that will be helpful to our employees when asked to lift patients. This is another commitment to our public safety.
The council also approved our budget for 2021-22 that included a 2% COLA for all employees, longevity pay for those who qualify, new vehicles and equipment for all departments, and the approval of new hires for most departments.
We continue to offer the best benefit packages to our employees that we can because we value each one of them as great assets to our city. As our new census numbers revealed a population of more than 26,000 residents, the demand for quality services offered by the city will increase and we work as your elected officials to make sure we do all we can to meet your expectations.
I want to thank all of the men and women who volunteer their time to serve on the various boards and committees in the city for their dedication and work to keep us moving forward. Their work is vital to the long-term plans for our city.
In closing, I want to thank our Trussville City School board members, superintendent, administrators, faculty and parents for continuing to put our students first. Many difficult decisions and situations have been brought forth the last couple of years and I am proud for the way all of those mentioned have worked together to do what they believe is in the best interest of our students. A special thank you to the Trussville City Schools Foundation is also in order for its continued work and support of our schools.
I want to wish everyone a happy and safe Thanksgiving.
