CITY OF TAYLOR COMMISSION MEETING | RICKEY STOKES NEWS
The Town of Taylor Commission Meeting met Tuesday, January 6, to address a range of administrative, financial, and public safety matters, including budget approvals, park improvements, information technology services, and concerns related to the hiring of a new police chief.
Commissioners approved the previous meeting’s minutes with an amendment to reflect accurate cost-of-living adjustments. A motion was also approved to provide cash payments to town employees, with full-time employees receiving $500, and part-time employees receiving $200. Resolution 01-06 was unanimously approved to pay the town’s annual audit, with costs divided between the general fund and the operations and maintenance fund.
During discussion, commissioners voiced concerns about proceeding with the hiring of a new police chief without written assurance from the League of Municipalities. The commission agreed to request formal written confirmation, with Mayor Lamb expected to follow up upon his return.
Park-related matters were also discussed, including proposals to fully enclose fencing at the playground. Commissioners noted that enclosing the entire area would increase costs and requested updated quotes reflecting approximately 293 additional feet of fencing before placing the item on a future agenda. Landscaping and irrigation proposals for the park were also presented for consideration.
An information technology service proposal for ongoing maintenance and support of the town’s computer systems was reviewed. Commissioners expressed the need to obtain additional bids to ensure fair pricing and proper comparison before taking action at a future meeting.
The commission also reviewed a proposed drug and alcohol policy. While there was general support for the policy, commissioners agreed that additional details and documentation are needed before final approval. The matter will be revisited at a later meeting.
Privilege of the Floor
During the Privilege of the Floor, a resident raised concerns about the condition of ballpark lighting and potential liability issues associated with renting the field in its current state. Additional concerns were shared regarding the lack of barriers at the playground and possible safety risks to children. Commissioners acknowledged the concerns and stated they would be discussed further in future meetings.
With no further business, the meeting was adjourned after all agenda items were addressed.
HEADLAND: Tonight Headland Mayor Jody Singleton and members of the Headland City Council met in their regular scheduled meeting.
Discussion of Knowles Road and bad condition the road is in. However this is a Henry County Commission and Henry County Road and Bridge issue because the dirt road is not a road that belongs to the City of Headland. Mayor Jody Singleton said they are in discussion with Henry County Probate Judge/Commission Chairman Ray Marler about solutions. Mayor Singleton attempted to explain the City of Headland has no jurisdiction on road maintenance on that road because it belongs to Henry County.
The Headland Chamber of Commerce discussed some exciting things with Headland and things to look to the future on.
One resident had some issues but she has legal representation. Once legal is mentioned her attorney has to get with Headland’s attorney and the Mayor and Council can not discuss the issues.
Some updates about work Mayor Singleton has talked with ALDOT and future talks with ALDOT attempting to make some dangerous areas safer.
Emergency responders were dispatched Thursday evening after a pedestrian was struck by a vehicle in Dothan.
The incident was reported at approximately 6:41 p.m. in the 3500 block of Ross Clark Circle, near the McDonald’s located on the access road.
Authorities initially reported that the victim was unconscious but breathing. An update later confirmed the pedestrian was transported to Southeast Health under emergency code for treatment.
The access road in the area was shut down temporarily while emergency crews responded. Drivers were urged to avoid the area and use alternate routes.
No additional details have been released at this time. More information will be provided as it becomes available.
An arrest has been made following a stabbing incident early Sunday morning in Montgomery that left a man critically injured, according to court documents.
Montgomery police were dispatched around 5:20 a.m. to the 3500 block of McGhee Place Drive in response to a reported disturbance. Investigators say the incident occurred in the parking lot of an apartment complex during an argument over loud music.
When officers arrived, they found an unidentified male suffering from life-threatening injuries caused by a stab wound. The victim was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. His current condition has not been released.
Court records show Shanyia Bonner, 20, was arrested Sunday afternoon and charged with first-degree assault. She is currently being held at the Montgomery County Detention Facility on a $25,000 bond.
Officers with the Andalusia Police Department are investigating a burglary that occurred early Monday morning at the Cricket Wireless store located at 1100 MLK Bypass.
According to police, the burglary occurred around 4:45 a.m. on January 5, 2026. Investigators say the suspect gained entry by breaking through drywall from a neighboring vacant business that was unsecured. A sledgehammer was reportedly used to breach the wall and access the Cricket Wireless store.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident and are asking for the public’s help.
Anyone with information related to this burglary is urged to contact the Andalusia Police Department at 334-222-1155. Tips may be provided confidentially.
Arnold Woodham Announces Re-Election Campaign for Coffee County Coroner Coffee County, Alabama —
Arnold Woodham officially announced today that he is seeking re-election as Coffee County Coroner, citing significant progress made during his first term and a continued commitment to serving families with professionalism, compassion, and integrity.
During his time in office, Woodham has led the Coroner’s Office through meaningful modernization and collaboration efforts. The office transitioned to electronic systems to improve documentation, efficiency, and accountability. Stronger working relationships have been established with local and state law enforcement agencies, the District Attorney’s Office, and neighboring county coroners to ensure coordinated and thorough death investigations.
With the support of the Coffee County Commission and Sheriff Byrd, the Coroner’s Office expanded its presence by adding an office within the Sheriff’s Office in New Brockton, improving accessibility and interagency cooperation. Additionally, the county morgue was relocated from the basement of the Coffee County facility to a dedicated location in New Brockton, providing a more appropriate and professional environment for operations.
Woodham has prioritized ongoing education and training to ensure the Coroner’s Office remains current with best practices and investigative standards. “Our responsibility is to be the voice for the deceased,” Woodham said. “Every death deserves the appropriate level of investigation, and when evidence warrants further action, we must be prepared to proceed thoroughly and professionally.”
Woodham emphasized that the strength of the Coroner’s Office lies in its team. “With my Chief Deputy Mark Kelley and Deputies Patrick Alford and Tim Whitehead, we are proud to offer Coffee County the highest level of compassion, professionalism, and service,” he said. “Together, we work to ensure families are treated with dignity, respect, and care during their most difficult moments.”
Reflecting on his first term, Woodham shared the personal motivation behind his service. “I’m often asked why I would want to serve as coroner,” he said. “My motivation comes from being able to serve families during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Families are often overwhelmed by tragedy and don’t always know what questions to ask or what steps to take. Our role is to guide them, support them, and help make an incredibly hard time just a little easier.” Woodham emphasized that the role has been both humbling and educational. “I’ve learned a lot and continue to learn every day,” he said. “I am deeply grateful for the trust Coffee County has placed in me during my first term.”
Looking ahead, Woodham expressed his desire to continue building on the progress made. “If re-elected, I look forward to serving Coffee County as your coroner for the next four years, continuing to improve our operations, strengthen partnerships, and ensure every family receives the respect, care, and diligence they deserve.”
