BERLIN, Ala. – Mayor Patrick Bates opened the monthly session of the Berlin Town Council on Monday, Aug. 18, 2025. The meeting commenced with an invocation and Pledge of Allegiance led by Councilman Donald Gunter.
The August monthly session dealt heavily with preparing the budget for the upcoming 2025-2026 fiscal year. While nothing was passed, the mayor presented the council with various drafts to consider in preparation for the September session, when official motions will need to be made.
Bates first brought a draft of a proposal concerning mowing and bush hogging of grassy areas. He asked the council to consider whether finish mowing or bush hogging would be more beneficial for the maintenance of Town landscape. Upon the completion of the farmers market project, the council will draft its final proposal for this bid. The final bid will also include herbicide treatment and weed eating. Bates stated that all council opinions would be taken under advisement for the creation of this bid.
Bates also made a suggestion to add a line item to the Town budget that would allow the Town to hire a service to maintain the new bathrooms at the farmers market and storm shelter. Concerning frequency, he stated, “Maybe weekly during season and maybe once a month out of season…We’ve actually had two or three people inquire if we needed someone to clean them.”The council agreed this should be considered and the Town should begin accepting bids for this service beginning next month.
Regarding farmers market progress, Bates said, “At the moment, it is operating the way I am wanting it to…so far, so good.” In addition to the farmers market building, there will be a fenced playground area next to the bathrooms. He said significant progress has been made on the building over the past few weeks and new playground equipment has been delivered and is ready to install. Contractors are predicting the project will be complete in early September.
In other business,
- A resolution affirming the Rebuild Alabama Act (RAA) Annual Grant transportation grant in the amount of $295,62.25 will be dedicated for road repairs passed unanimously
- The council reviewed revenue and expense reports in early planning for the budget for the upcoming 2025-2026 fiscal year that will be confirmed at the next council meeting
- The mayor is waiting on feedback from the County Water Department and Town attorney concerning the easement on County Road 1614 that is needed to address road issues
- A motion carried unanimously for a $476 donation to the North Alabama Agriplex
The next meeting of the Berlin Town Council is scheduled for Sept. 15, 2025, at 7 p.m. at Berlin Town Hall.
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