Commission hears update on county bids, website launch

By LEAH INGRAM EAGLE

An update on several bids was given during the May 8 meeting of the Shelby County Commission.

One was expected that same week regarding a new water services facility in Westover at the location of the current facility, which is no longer open to the public.

“This would move all operations in house under one roof, including the engineering and field personnel,” said County Manager Chad Scroggins. “We’ve been scattered and have been divided for years and think this is a better management structure to make sure everybody’s together.”

This was already a budgeted expenditure for fiscal 2023.

Also, the county plans to open bids for the jail expansion project on July 13. Scroggins said the commission is hoping for good numbers on that project.

The commission approved the purchase of a 14-passenger van for the Heardmont Senior Center. It is one of the senior centers that is not supported by a municipality, and the county works to step in and assist those facilities.

The county’s website, shelbyal.com, unveiled a new look on May 9, and the Discover Shelby tourism site went live at discovershelby.com later in May.

“They did a really good job with the way it looks,” Scroggins said. “It looks a lot fresher and less governmental, and it should serve our residents well.”

Also during the county manager’s report, Scroggins mentioned:

► The legislative session continues to be a busy one. The county is watching legislation including the grocery tax bill and simplified sellers use tax that could have an impact on the county’s budget, especially on the revenue side. “We appreciate our legislative delegation,” Scroggins said. “They’ve worked really hard, and they listen to us when we have concerns. We are very thankful for the work they’re doing right now.”

► The budget process for fiscal 2024 has begun.

► Steve Ammons was named as a new director for the Birmingham Business Alliance in May, after resigning from the Jefferson County Commission to serve in this role. “Steve has been in that realm, and he certainly knows the players in the Birmingham region,” Scroggins said. “Kevin [Morris] and I both serve on the BBA board, and I think this is a good move because we have someone local who understands the partners and players and understands how to communicate with them. I think Steve will do a great job leading, and that’s a good thing for our region.”

► Commissioner Robbie Hayes was recently inducted into the Chelsea High School Hall of Fame, and Commissioner Kevin Morris recently received his MBA from the University of Montevallo.

► The environmental committee was set to meet in May to discuss landfill rates, which have not been adjusted since 2009.