The Opelika City Council convened for its regular meeting on Aug. 6. During the meeting, the city approved an agreement with the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) to install traffic signals at both of the exit 60 ramps along I-85 at Marvyn Parkway.
The council appointed Sutricia Johnson to the Opelika Housing Authority. Johnson will fill an existing term which will expire Oct. 10, 2025. The council also recognized Montravious Turpin as the Opelika Housing Authority’s First “YouthBuild” Program Graduate.
In other city council business:
An ordinance was approved for the mayor to execute a deed conveyance of 14.8 acres of property to the Opelika Board of Education. That property is utilized for Opelika Middle School. The city also voted to convey 5.23 acres of land utilized for Carver Primary School to the Opelika Board of Education.
The city approved an ordinance prohibiting unauthorized camping in public places including street right of ways, sidewalks and parks.
The city council also recognized the Opelika Chamber of Commerce for winning the 2024 Category 1 Chamber of Commerce of the Year award. Opelika beat out both the Newnan, Georgia and Chino, California chambers to win the award.
A public hearing was set for Sept. 3, 2024, regarding the revocation of Springwood Hotel’s business license. Springwood Hotel is located at 1002 Columbus Parkway in Opelika.
A contract was approved for services with the USA Handball Wheelchair National Team.
The council also approved bids for the G.W. Carver Hall roofing project, and a new 115kV Transmission Line.
Under general business:
The city granted both Opelika Mart and On Point each a retail wine and beer off premise license. Texas Roadhouse was given two special event retail licenses, one for Aug. 16, 2024 and the other for Sept. 20, 2024. Brewzle Bourbon Festival was given a special event retail license for Oct. 12, 2024. The council also approved a downtown street closure for the Main Street “On the Tracks” event to be held on Sept. 27, 2024.
Under appointments:
Mike Buckalew was appointed to the Historic Preservation Commission. His term expires Aug. 19, 2027.
Debbie Purves was reappointed to the Historic Preservation Commission. Her term expires Aug. 19, 2027.
Elaine Burton was reappointed to the Historic Preservation Commission. Her term expires Aug. 19, 2027.
Harvey Floyd was reappointed to the Opelika Redevelopment Authority. His term expires Aug. 07, 2030.
Richard Patton was reappointed to the Opelika Redevelopment Authority. His term expires Aug. 07, 2030.