2022 Year in Review Report
2022 Year In Review Report
The City experienced an active and transformative year in 2022—one marked by infrastructure improvements, strengthened community partnerships, innovative technology upgrades, and significant strides in public safety and economic development. Through collaborative efforts and a commitment to modernizing services, the City made great progress toward enhancing quality of life for its residents and preparing for future growth.
Infrastructure Improvements & Future Plans
This year, strategic investments in infrastructure set the stage for long-term benefits:
Drainage & Paving Projects:
Initiated discussions regarding the installation of new drainage pipes along Hall Drive, paving the way for the subsequent street paving project that was approved.
Evaluated and awarded the bid for the replacement of a culvert on Crest Lake, ensuring a safer passage.
Approved the Hawthorn Drainage Project and addressed drainage concerns on Misty Lane.
Technology & IT Upgrades:
Advanced the City’s digital infrastructure by approving significant software upgrades along with a new server, which will enhance IT services and update the City’s website.
Capital Projects & Future Needs:
Explored opportunities to improve pedestrian infrastructure through discussions about sidewalk enhancements and pursuing a $1 million grant opportunity (80/20 match).
Launched the “Southside Next” Master Plan by hosting Steering Committee Meetings, followed by a comprehensive community walk-through.
Adopted a fresh new logo that represents the City’s forward-thinking vision.
Purchased the “Land Between the Bridges” to support future projects, including the planned Northbound Coosa River Bridge Replacement Project.
Collaboration with Other Entities
Working closely with neighboring organizations and community partners was key to our success this year:
Educational Partnerships:
Finalized an agreement with the Etowah County Board of Education to install new lighting at the high school practice field—ensuring safe, extended hours for youth football practice.
Collaborated on the development of a new high school band trailer, proudly featuring the City’s new logo, strengthening community identity and pride.
Grants & ARPA Fund Expenditures
Leveraging external funding and grant opportunities enabled the City to expand its initiatives:
Federal ARPA Reimbursements:
The General Fund was reimbursed $601,688.39 from Federal ARPA funds, a critical resource that bolstered City projects.
Tourism & Economic Grants:
Secured additional grant opportunities aimed at promoting tourism and supporting other community-enhancing projects.
City Finances, Administration & Personnel
Enhancing operational efficiency and modernizing administrative functions were top priorities:
Policy & Procedure Updates:
Approved a new City handbook—an update from the previous version issued in 2015—ensuring current best practices are followed.
Vehicle & Equipment Management:
Invested in new vehicles for the Administration and Police Departments while effectively managing a surplus of older vehicles and equipment.
Employee Recruitment & Retention:
Established a new pay scale to attract and retain high-quality employees.
Technology & Security Enhancements:
Explored proposals for a revamped website and improved social media management.
Upgraded the City’s communications with the approval of a new VOIP phone system.
Addressed enhanced security measures for the municipal building, including new locks, doors, and fire alarms.
Organizational Changes:
Celebrated the retirement of a dedicated City Clerk, after 32 years of service.
Established the Finance Director position to separate key responsibilities from the City Clerk’s role.
Initiated discussions on a project to scan and digitize permanent records dating back to 1957, ensuring better historical preservation and easier access.
City Events & Recognitions
Community engagement and celebration of milestones were hallmarks of the year:
Community Celebrations:
Joined with Rainbow City for a memorable Movie Night at Southside Landing in September, featuring a screening of “JAWS” accessible by both land and boat.
Hosted additional community events, including the Spring Festival & Easter Egg Hunt, the Fall Festival, and the second annual Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting, each of which brought residents together in the spirit of celebration.
Youth Initiatives & Recognitions:
Supported local youth by featuring Hayden Hollis’s Eagle Scout Project proposal to install benches at Southside Landing.
Centennial Celebrations:
Honored Edith Fortenberry’s 100th birthday at a City Council meeting, including the public reading of a proclamation that celebrated her remarkable milestone.
Economic Development
Focused efforts to boost local economic activity and growth were evident throughout the year:
Development Initiatives:
Gained approval to participate in the Economic Development Academy for 2023, positioning the City to further enhance economic strategies.
Capacity Building:
Supported the professional development of Planning Commission Members, with two members completing Certificates of Planning & Zoning.
Business Recruitment:
Entered negotiations aimed at recruiting a new grocery store to serve the community’s growing needs.
Public Safety
Investments in public safety and community well-being were comprehensive and far-reaching:
Innovative Programs:
Approved the addition of Luka, a Canine Therapy Dog, to the Public Safety roster, enriching community engagement and support.
Fire & Rescue Enhancements:
Purchased a new fire engine to bolster the Fire Department’s capabilities and awarded bids for the construction of a new fire station—with a groundbreaking ceremony held on November 16.
Implemented pay increases for the Assistant Fire Chief and four police officers to ensure competitive retention.
Judicial & Court Reforms:
Appointed a new Municipal Court Judge and a new Court Clerk following the retirement of the previous officeholder.
Launched a Traffic Safety Program within Municipal Court, reinforcing the City’s commitment to safer roadways.
Public Works & Building Department
Efficiency and modernization in public works were achieved through targeted actions:
Sanitation & Service Improvements:
Approved the purchase of new sanitation trucks and discussed the cost structure for implementing city-managed sanitation services.
Approved a “Request for Qualifications” to engage engineering services, ensuring expert oversight of future projects.
Created new positions for Sanitation Truck Drivers and Public Works personnel, aligning human resources with the City’s expanding operational needs.
Finalized the purchase of “Third Eye” software for new sanitation trucks to capture video and camera data—enhancing transparency and operational efficiency.
Park & Recreation
Investments in recreational facilities and public spaces brought renewed energy to community life:
Facility Upgrades & Additions:
Approved an air conditioning unit for the Softball Complex offices and concessions to improve comfort.
Opened Southside Landing on May 1, 2022, providing a vibrant new community space.
Expanded the Parks & Recreation team by adding an additional employee.
Enhanced Southside Landing further by installing new picnic tables, creating inviting spaces for families and visitors.
Conclusion
The City’s 2022 accomplishments reflect a year of strategic planning, prudent fiscal management, and active community engagement. From essential infrastructure projects to innovative public safety measures and a series of dynamic community events—including festivals and seasonal celebrations—the initiatives of 2022 have laid a solid foundation for continued growth and prosperity. The City looks forward to building on these successes in the coming year and remains committed to enhancing the quality of life for all residents. The City is not only responsive to current needs but also boldly preparing for the future.