Opelika, AL
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OpelikaAL averageUS Census ACS
Median home value
$213,700 Typical home value $310,676 +3.5% yr/yr · +26.7% 5-yr
👤 Members & officials (21)
Members seen in recent official meeting records — names and roles as published.
Who’s on the General
- Leigh Whatley — Councilmember
- Gary Fuller — Mayor
- George Allen — Councilmember
- Eddie Smith — Mayor
- Arturo Menefee
- Lucinda Cannon
- John Sweatman
- Michael Hilyer
- Jay Walters
- Sheldon Whittelsey
- Tom Penton
- Ben Bugg
- Brandon Hilyer
- Wilbert Payne
- Chris Anthony
- Micah Melnick
- Raven Harvis
- Tipi Miller
- Angela George
- Monty Newport
- Raven Harris
Municipal budget
Total revenue$179.1M (FY2023)
Total spending$154.0M (FY2023)
Taxes$89.3M (FY2023)
Debt outstanding$187.3M (FY2023)
Spending per resident$4,883 (FY2023)
Development activity
2025568 housing units ($128.7M)
Upcoming
Tue Sep 1, 2026 · 18:00
City Council
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY OF OPELIKA
CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
September 1, 2026
TIME: 6:00 PM
1.
A CALL TO ORDER
2.
ROLL CALL
1.
George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
3.
INVOCATION
1.
Tim Kurtaneck from Christ our Redeemer Seminary.
4.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
1.
Banks Grantham and Eliza Tapley from Southview Primary School.
5.
ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA
1.
Motion to Adopt the CM Agenda for 09-01-26.
6.
APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING(S)
1.
Minutes from the 08-18-26 council meeting.
7.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
8.
MAYOR COMMENTS AND RECOGNITIONS
1.
Mayor's Nominations for Historic Preservation Commission Appointments.
9.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
(Limit comments to 3 minutes or less)
1.
Public Hearing - Revocation of Business License at 501 Geneva Street, STE 3 &
4.
2.
Public Hearing - Weed Abatement Assessment - 403 W. E. Morton Avenue.
3.
Public Hearing - Weed Abatement Assessment - 510 India Road.
4.
Public Hearing - Amend the Text of the Zoning Ordinance: Regulation of Hemp
Stores in Opelika.
10.
AGENDA-RELATED PUBLIC COMMENTS
(Limit comments to 3 minutes or less)
11.
CONSENT AGENDA
1.
General Business: Request Downtown Street Closure - Concert at the Railyard
on 10-02-26.
2.
General Business: Request Downtown Street Closure - National Night Out
Event on 10-06-26.
3.
Genera …
Tue Sep 1, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY OF OPELIKA
CITY COUNCIL
WORKSESSION MEETING AGENDA
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
September 1, 2026
TIME: 5:30 PM
1.
A CALL TO ORDER
1.
George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
2.
PRESENTATIONS
1.
Created With Purpose - Dr. Valarie Thomas.
2.
Hydration Drive - Jaiden Bloodworth, President of Project Pulmonary.
3.
RESOLUTIONS
4.
ORDINANCES
5.
GENERAL UPDATES
6.
REVIEW/DISCUSS CURRENT COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
1.
Discussion of Consent Agenda or Regular Agenda Items.
7.
GENERAL / DISCUSSION
8.
END OF WORK SESSION
“In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Opelika will make
reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. If you need special assistance to
participate in this meeting, please contact the ADA Coordinator 72 hours prior to the meeting at
(334)705-5130.”
Tue Sep 8, 2026 · 09:00
General
300 Martin Luther King Blvd., Opelika
Thu Sep 10, 2026 · 16:30
General
300 MLK Boulevard, Opelika
Tue Sep 15, 2026 · 18:00
City Council
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
Tue Sep 15, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
Tue Sep 22, 2026 · 15:00
General
300 Martin Luther King Blvd., Opelika
Tue Oct 6, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
Tue Oct 6, 2026 · 18:00
City Council
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
Thu Oct 8, 2026 · 16:30
General
300 MLK Boulevard, Opelika
Tue Oct 20, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
Tue Oct 20, 2026 · 18:00
City Council
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
Tue Nov 3, 2026 · 18:00
City Council
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
Tue Nov 3, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
Thu Nov 12, 2026 · 16:30
General
300 MLK Boulevard, Opelika
Tue Nov 17, 2026 · 18:00
City Council
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
Tue Nov 17, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
Tue Dec 1, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
Tue Dec 1, 2026 · 18:00
City Council
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
Thu Dec 10, 2026 · 16:30
General
300 MLK Boulevard, Opelika
Tue Dec 15, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
Tue Dec 15, 2026 · 18:00
City Council
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
Recent meetings
Tue Aug 25, 2026 · 15:00
General
Planning Commission to consider 7-lot subdivision, conditional uses, and street renaming
The Opelika Planning Commission will hold public hearings on a preliminary and final plat for a 7-lot subdivision on Lee Road 266, three conditional use requests (a women's clothing store with alcohol sales, an after-school daycare, and two extensions for apartment/townhome projects), and a proposal to rename Maple Street to Erick Strickland Avenue.
- McKemie Corners First Addition: 7-lot subdivision on Lee Road 266 (Hare Engineering)
- Conditional use: women's clothing store (Soco House) with alcohol at 110 S 8th Street
- Conditional use: after-school daycare on 13,262 sq ft lot at 301 S 4th Street
- CU extension: Society Hill Apartments at 2900 Society Hill Road (one year or until August 2027)
- CU extension: Executive Park Townhomes at 2003 Executive Park Drive (one year or until August 2027)
planning-commissionsubdivisionconditional-usepublic-hearingzoningstreet-renamingopelika
300 Martin Luther King Blvd., Opelika
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY OF OPELIKA
PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
August 25, 2026
TIME: 3:00 PM
I. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
II. UPDATE ON PREVIOUS CASES
III. NEW BUSINESS
A. PRELIMINARY AND FINAL - Public Hearing
1. McKemie Corners First Addition "Division of Lot 1" SD, 7 lots, Lee Road 266 in
the Planning Jurisdiction, Hare Engineering, P/F Approval
B. CONDITIONAL USE – Public Hearing
2. Colby McConnell, authorized representative for CJCF, LLC, property owner, 110
S 8th Street, C-1 zone, woman's clothing store (Soco House) and alcohol
available while shopping.
3. Jacqueline Holloway, authorized representative for Hardena Todd, property
owner, 301 S 4th Street, C-2 zone, 13,262 square foot lot, after-school daycare
center.
C. CONDITIONAL USE EXTENSION — Public Hearing
4. Foresite Group, LLC, authorized representative for Opelika 26, LLC, property
owner, 2900 Society Hill Road, C-2 zoning district, Society Hill Apartments.
CU extension for one year or until August 2027 PC meeting.
5.
William D. Brady, authorized representative for SB Homes, LLC, property
owner, 2003 Executive Park Drive, PUD zoning district, Executive Park
Townhomes. CU extension for one year or until August 2027.
D. OTHER BUSINESS
6. Rename Maple Street to Erick Strickland Avenue
“In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Opelika will make
reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. If y …
Mon Aug 24, 2026 · 18:00
General
Opelika Public Library, Opelika
Tue Aug 18, 2026 · 18:00
City Council
Council to revoke business license at 3040 Capps Way
The Opelika City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on revoking a business license at 3040 Capps Way. They will also consider several resolutions, including purchases, contract renewals, and appointments, plus two ordinances on a street rename and school zone speed limits.
- Public hearing and resolution to revoke business license at 3040 Capps Way
- Resolution to purchase a 2027 Chevrolet Tahoe Z71
- Resolution to approve change order #1 to the 2026 City Wide Resurfacing Contract
- Ordinance to rename JoAnn Drive to Faith Way (2nd reading)
- Ordinance to amend school zone speed limit time for Fox Run School (1st reading)
business-licensepublic-hearingordinancestreet-renameschool-zonepurchasingcontracts
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY OF OPELIKA
CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
August 18, 2026
TIME: 6:00 PM
1.
A CALL TO ORDER
2.
ROLL CALL
1.
George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
3.
INVOCATION
1.
Jarel Fryer from Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church.
4.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
1.
Russell A. Jones, MMC - City Clerk.
5.
ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA
1.
Motion to Adopt the CM Agenda for 08-18-26.
6.
APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING(S)
1.
Minutes from the 08-04-26 council meeting.
7.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
8.
MAYOR COMMENTS AND RECOGNITIONS
1.
City's Financial Summary Report for July 2026.
2.
July 2026 Monthly Building Summary Report.
3.
Recognize the 20 Under Forty Class for 2026-2027.
4.
Recognize Character Council Citizen of Excellent Character.
9.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
(Limit comments to 3 minutes or less)
1.
Public Hearing - Revocation of Business License at 3040 Capps Way.
10.
AGENDA-RELATED PUBLIC COMMENTS
(Limit comments to 3 minutes or less)
11.
CONSENT AGENDA
1.
General Business: Request Alcohol License - A Joo, LLC. DBA Korean BBQ
And Hot Pot - Restaurant Retail Liquor.
2.
General Business: Request Alcohol License - King426, Inc. DBA King Mart
Liquor - Lounge Retail Liquor Class 2 (Package Store).
3.
General Business: Request for Annual Life Chain Event on 10-04-26.
4.
Resolu …
Tue Aug 18, 2026 · 17:45
City Council
Council to review resurfacing change order and ADA contract renewal
The Opelika City Council is holding a worksession to review items for the upcoming regular meeting. The agenda includes two resolutions: approving Change Order #1 to the 2026 City Wide Resurfacing Contract and approving a contract renewal for the City-Wide ADA Improvements Project. No ordinances or presentations are listed, and the rest of the agenda is procedural discussion of the consent agenda and general updates.
- Approve Change Order #1 to the 2026 City Wide Resurfacing Contract - ENG.
- Approve Contract Renewal for the City-Wide ADA Improvements Project - ENG.
- Review/discuss current council meeting agenda, including consent vs. regular agenda items.
city-councilcontractsresurfacingadapublic-works
✓ Decided: Council reviews resurfacing change order and ADA contract renewal
The Opelika City Council held a work session on August 18, 2026, where they reviewed two resolutions: a change order for the 2026 City Wide Resurfacing Contract and a contract renewal for the City-Wide ADA Improvements Project. No formal votes were taken; the items were presented for discussion. The mayor noted the proposed FY2027 budget was available for council questions, and a request was made to consider a second reading of Ordinance #2.
- Reviewed Change Order #1 to 2026 City Wide Resurfacing Contract (no vote)
- Reviewed Contract Renewal for City-Wide ADA Improvements Project (no vote)
- Discussed FY2027 budget availability
- Discussed possible second reading of Ordinance #2
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY OF OPELIKA
CITY COUNCIL
WORKSESSION MEETING AGENDA
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
August 18, 2026
TIME: 5:45 PM
1.
A CALL TO ORDER
1.
George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
2.
PRESENTATIONS
3.
RESOLUTIONS
1.
Approve Change Order #1 to the 2026 City Wide Resurfacing Contract - ENG.
2.
Approve Contract Renewal for the City-Wide ADA Improvements Project -
ENG.
4.
ORDINANCES
5.
GENERAL UPDATES
6.
REVIEW/DISCUSS CURRENT COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
1.
Discussion of Consent Agenda or Regular Agenda Items.
7.
GENERAL / DISCUSSION
8.
END OF WORK SESSION
“In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Opelika will make
reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. If you need special assistance to
participate in this meeting, please contact the ADA Coordinator 72 hours prior to the meeting at
(334)705-5130.”
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
August 18, 2026
TIME: 5:45 PM
1.
A CALL TO ORDER
President Allen called the work session to order at 05:45 pm.
1.
George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
The Mayor and all City Council members were present.
2.
PRESENTATIONS
3.
RESOLUTIONS
1.
Approve Change Order #1 to the 2026 City Wide Resurfacing Contract - ENG.
Mr. Parker presented the resolution.
2.
Approve Contract Renewal for the City-Wide ADA Improvements Project -
ENG.
Mr. Parker presented the resolution.
4.
ORDINANCES
5.
GENERAL UPDATES
Mayor Smith stated that the proposed FY2027 budget had been provided to the
council and if they had any questions about it, contact Cindy Boyd, Mr, Motley
or himself about it.
6.
REVIEW/DISCUSS CURRENT COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
1.
Discussion of Consent Agenda or Regular Agenda Items.
Mr. Jones asked the council to consider suspending the rules to have a second
reading on Ordinance #2.
7.
GENERAL / DISCUSSION
8.
END OF WORK SESSION
The work session ended at 05:53 pm.
Thu Aug 13, 2026 · 16:30
General
Historic Preservation Commission to review 5 certificate of appropriateness applications
The Opelika Historic Preservation Commission will hold a regular meeting to review five Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) applications for changes to properties in historic districts. The commission will also approve the minutes from the July 9, 2026 meeting and receive enforcement and staff reports. The next meeting is scheduled for September 10, 2026.
- 314 N. 11th St: COA for porte cochere and curb wall (applicant David McClintoc)
- 609 Geneva St: COA for rear addition, parking, side door, outdoor seating (applicant Kevin Lyons)
- 904 5th Ave: COA to expand front porch and add lighting (applicants Clay and Jennifer Harper)
- 408 Geneva St: COA to rebuild structure and add parking (applicant John Marsh)
- 601 S. Railroad Ave: COA for signage, landscaping, and parking (applicant Jake Whaley)
historic-preservationcertificate-of-appropriatenesspublic-hearingopelika
300 MLK Boulevard, Opelika
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY OF OPELIKA
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
August 13, 2026
TIME: 4:30 PM
1.
A CALL TO ORDER
2.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1.
Approve July 9, 2026 minutes
3.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
(Limit comments to 3 minutes or less)
4.
OLD BUSINESS
5.
NEW BUSINESS
2.
314 N. 11th St: Northside Historic District
COA: Porte Cochere and Curb Wall
Application: David McClintoc
3.
609 Geneva St: Geneva Historic District
COA: Rear Addition, Parking, Side Door, Outdoor Seating
Applicant: Kevin Lyons
4.
904 5th Ave: Northside Historic District
COA: Expand Front Porch, Lighting
Applicant: Clay and Jennifer Harper
5.
408 Geneva St: Geneva Historic District
COA: Rebuild Structure, Parking
Applicant: John Marsh
6.
601 S. Railroad Ave: Downtown Historic District
COA: Signage, Landscaping, Parking
Applicant: Jake Whaley
6.
OTHER BUSINESS
7.
Enforcement Report
8.
Staff Report
9.
Next meeting DATE
1.
Next meeting September 10, 2026
7.
ADJOURN
“In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Opelika will make
reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. If you need special assistance to
participate in this meeting, please contact the ADA Coordinator 72 hours prior to the meeting at
(334)705-5130.”
Tue Aug 11, 2026 · 09:00
General
Zoning Board to consider side yard variance for 609 Geneva Street
The Zoning Board of Adjustment will meet to approve previous minutes and review a variance request. A representative for Harlow Conci LLC is seeking a setback exception for a property on Geneva Street.
- Variance request for 609 Geneva Street: 2'3" side yard variance from the 10-foot minimum setback
zoningvarianceland-use
300 Martin Luther King Blvd., Opelika
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY OF OPELIKA
ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
August 11, 2026
TIME: 9:00 AM
A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
B. VARIANCE
1. Kevin Lyons, authorized representative for Harlow Conci LLC, property owner,
609 Geneva Street, C-2, GC-S zoning district, Requesting a 2'3" side yard
variance from the minimum 10-foot side yard setback.
“In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Opelika will make
reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. If you need special assistance to
participate in this meeting, please contact the ADA Coordinator 72 hours prior to the meeting at
(334)705-5130.”
Tue Aug 11, 2026 · 17:30
General
1001 SportsPlex Parkway, Opelika
Tue Aug 4, 2026 · 18:00
City Council
Opelika City Council to consider tax levies and CDBG action plans
The City Council will hold public hearings regarding weed abatement assessments for six properties. The body is also deciding on the annual property tax levy and the CDBG PY2026 Budget and Annual Action Plan.
- Annual Authorization to Levy Tax on Property within Opelika
- CDBG PY2026 Budget & Annual Action Plan
- Special Use Permit request by Verizon Wireless at 900 Reeder Avenue
- Bid for two automated side loader garbage trucks
- Proposed school zone speed limit time changes for Opelika City Schools
taxesbudgetzoningpublic-worksordinances
✓ Decided: Council approves school zone speed limit changes, renames JoAnn Drive
The Opelika City Council unanimously approved an ordinance amending school zone speed limit times for Opelika City Schools (Ordinance No. 024-26) at second reading. The council also introduced an ordinance to rename JoAnn Drive to Faith Way at first reading. All consent agenda items, including street closures, garbage truck purchases, and various resolutions, were approved unanimously. Six weed abatement assessments were also approved unanimously.
- Approved school zone speed limit time changes (Ordinance 024-26, unanimous)
- Introduced ordinance to rename JoAnn Drive to Faith Way (first reading)
- Approved consent agenda including 3 downtown street closures (unanimous)
- Approved purchase of 2 automated side loader garbage trucks (Resolution 155-26)
- Approved annual property tax levy authorization (Resolution 159-26)
- Approved Verizon Wireless special use permit at 900 Reeder Avenue (Resolution 162-26)
- Approved 6 weed abatement assessments (Resolutions 164-26 through 169-26)
- Appointed Jeff Neely to MPO Citizen Advisory Committee
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY OF OPELIKA
CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
August 4, 2026
TIME: 6:00 PM
1. A CALL TO ORDER
2. ROLL CALL
1. George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
3. INVOCATION
4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
1. Russell A. Jones, MMC - City Clerk.
5. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA
1. Motion to Adopt the CM Agenda for 08-04-26.
6. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING(S)
1. Minutes from the 07-21-26 council meeting.
7. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
8. MAYOR COMMENTS AND RECOGNITIONS
9. PUBLIC HEARINGS (Limit comments to 3 minutes or less)
1. Public Hearing - Weed Abatement Assessment - 505 S 4th Street.
2. Public Hearing - Weed Abatement Assessment - 901 S 4th Street.
3. Public Hearing - Weed Abatement Assessment - 814 Donald Avenue.
4. Public Hearing - Weed Abatement Assessment - 710 Elizabeth Street.
5. Public Hearing - Weed Abatement Assessment - 1801 S Long Street.
6. Public Hearing - Weed Abatement Assessment - 202 Raintree Street.
10. AGENDA-RELATED PUBLIC COMMENTS (Limit comments to 3 minutes or less)
11. CONSENT AGENDA
1. General Business: Request Downtown Street Closure - Workout Anytime
Family Field Day on 10-03-26.
2. General Business: Request Downtown Street Closure - Annual "On The Tracks"
Event on 10-09-26.
3. General Business: Request Downtown Street Closure - Railyard Concert and
Villain's Ball on 10-31-26.
4. Bid: Two (2) Automated Si …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
August 4, 2026
TIME: 6:00 PM
1.
A CALL TO ORDER
President Allen called the council meeting to order at 06:00 pm and asked Mr.
Jones to call the roll.
2.
ROLL CALL
Mayor Smith, President Allen, Ms. Holmes, Mr. Beams, and Mr. Rauch were
present. Ms. Whatley was absent.
1.
George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
3.
INVOCATION
Mr. Fryer provided the invocation.
1.
Jarel Fryer from Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church.
4.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mr. Jones led the Pledge of Allegiance.
1.
Russell A. Jones, MMC - City Clerk.
5.
ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA
1.
Motion to Adopt the CM Agenda for 08-04-26.
MOTION TO ADOPT THE AGENDA: UNANIMOUS
RESULT:
Passed
MOVER:
Councilwoman Ward 2 Janataka Hughley-Holmes
SECONDER: Councilman Ward 4 - President Pro-Tem Chuck Beams
AYES:
Councilman Ward 1 - President Allen, Councilwoman Ward 2
Hughley-Holmes, Councilman Ward 4 - President Pro-Tem
Beams, Councilman Ward 5 Rauch
NAYS:
None
ABSTAIN:
None
6.
APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING(S)
1.
Minutes from the 07-21-26 council meeting.
President Allen stated that a copy of the minutes had been previously received by
the council and asked for a motion to approve the minutes. Mr. Rauch made a
motion to approve. Ms. Holmes seconded the motion. Pr …
Tue Aug 4, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
Council to hold public hearing on revoking business licenses at 3040 Capps Way
The Opelika City Council will hold a future public hearing to consider revoking certain business licenses for a property located at 3040 Capps Way. This is the only substantive item listed for the worksession meeting, with no ordinances, resolutions, or major updates scheduled.
- Set Date of Public Hearing on Petition to Revoke Certain Business Licenses — 3040 Capps Way
business-licensespublic-hearingworksessionopelika
✓ Decided: Council sets public hearing on revoking business license at 3040 Capps Way
The council held a work session and set a date for a public hearing on a petition to revoke certain business licenses at 3040 Capps Way. They also discussed suspending rules for a second reading on Ordinance #1 and clarified that Consent Agenda item #8 is a renewal of current Ad Valorem taxes, not a new tax. No final votes were taken during this work session.
- Set date for public hearing on petition to revoke business licenses at 3040 Capps Way
- Discussed suspending rules for second reading of Ordinance #1 (no action taken)
- Clarified Consent Agenda item #8 as renewal of Ad Valorem taxes, not new tax
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY OF OPELIKA
CITY COUNCIL
WORKSESSION MEETING AGENDA
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
August 4, 2026
TIME: 5:30 PM
1. A CALL TO ORDER
1. George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
2. PRESENTATIONS
3. RESOLUTIONS
1. Set Date of Public Hearing on Petition to Revoke Certain Business Licenses -
3040 Capps Way - REV.
4. ORDINANCES
5. GENERAL UPDATES
6. REVIEW/DISCUSS CURRENT COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
1. Discussion of Consent Agenda or Regular Agenda Items.
7. GENERAL / DISCUSSION
8. END OF WORK SESSION
“In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Opelika will make
reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. If you need special assistance to
participate in this meeting, please contact the ADA Coordinator 72 hours prior to the meeting at
(334)705-5130.”
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
August 4, 2026
TIME: 5:30 PM
1. A CALL TO ORDER
President Allen called the work session to order at 05:31 pm.
1. George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
Mayor Smith, President Allen, Ms. Holmes, Mr. Beams, and Mr. Rauch were
present. Ms. Whatley was absent.
2. PRESENTATIONS
3. RESOLUTIONS
1. Set Date of Public Hearing on Petition to Revoke Certain Business Licenses -
3040 Capps Way - REV.
Mr. Jones presented the resolution.
President Allen then asked Lisa Harrelson to present Consent Agenda items #9
and #10. Ms. Harrelson did so.
4. ORDINANCES
5. GENERAL UPDATES
6. REVIEW/DISCUSS CURRENT COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
1. Discussion of Consent Agenda or Regular Agenda Items.
Mr. Jones asked the council to consider suspending the rules to have a second
reading on Ordinance #1.
Mr. Jones also mentioned that Consent Agenda item #8 was not a new tax but a
renewal of current Ad Valorem taxes.
7. GENERAL / DISCUSSION
8. END OF WORK SESSION
The work session ended at 05:40 pm.
Tue Jul 28, 2026 · 15:00
General
Planning Commission to consider zoning amendments for alcohol and hemp/CBD uses
The Opelika Planning Commission will hold public hearings on a conditional use permit for a 14,911 sq ft office/warehouse at 1108 Walker Gray Court, a vacation of right-of-way on JoAnn Drive (Faith Way) for a turnaround, and proposed text amendments to the Zoning Ordinance concerning definitions and standards for alcohol and hemp/CBD uses. The commission will also approve minutes and receive updates on previous cases. The amendments will be recommended to the City Council.
- Conditional use for a 14,911 sq ft office/warehouse at 1108 Walker Gray Court (C-3, GC-P zone)
- Vacation of a portion of right-of-way at 2401 JoAnn Drive (Faith Way) for a turnaround
- Text amendment to Section 2.2 Definitions, Section 7.3.C Use Categories, and Section 8.28.5 Package Liquor Store Standards for alcohol uses
- Text amendment to Section 2.2 Definitions, Section 7.3.C Use Categories, and Section 8.28.6 CBD Hemp Standards for hemp/CBD uses
planning-commissionzoningpublic-hearingconditional-useright-of-wayalcoholhemp-cbdopelika
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
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CITY OF OPELIKA
PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
July 28, 2026
TIME: 3:00 PM
I. WELCOME - Some items at this meeting will have a designated public hearing (noted
below). Individuals are limited to one 5-minute comment period per public hearing.
II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
III. UPDATE ON PREVIOUS CASES
IV. NEW BUSINESS
A. CONDITIONAL USE – Public Hearing
1. David Slocum, Pinnacle Design Group, Inc., authorized representative for Kyu
Jin Jang, property owner, 1108 Walker Gray Court, C-3, GC-P zone, 14,911
square foot office/warehouse building.
B. VACATION OF RIGHT-OF-WAY - Public Hearing
2. Opelika Industrial Development Authority (OIDA), 2401 JoAnn Drive (Faith
Way), Request to vacate a portion of the right-of-way used for a turn
around. JoAnn Drive is being renamed to Faith Way.
C. TEXT AMENDMENTS TO THE OPELIKA ZONING ORDINANCE -
Public Hearing
3. Revision to Section 2.2 Definitions, Section 7.3. C. Use Categories (matrix table)
for alcohol uses, and Section 8.28.5 Package Liquor Store Standards for Use - A
public hearing to consider a recommendation to the City Council on proposed
amendments to the Zoning Ordinance.
4. Revision to Section 2.2 Definitions, Section 7.3. C. Use Categories (matrix table)
for hemp/CBD uses, and Section 8.28.6 CBD Hemp Standards for Use - A public
hearing to consider a recommendation to the City Council on proposed
amendments to the Zoning Ordinance.
“In …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
PLANNING COMMISSION
MINUTES
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
July 28, 2026
TIME: 3:00 PM
I.
WELCOME - Some items at this meeting will have a designated public hearing (noted
below). Individuals are limited to one 5-minute comment period per public hearing.
The City of Opelika Planning Commission held its regular monthly meeting July 28, 2026 in
the Meeting Chambers, located at the Opelika Municipal Court. Certified letters have been
mailed to all adjacent property owners for related issues.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Chair Lucinda Cannon, Mayor Eddie Smith, Councilwoman Leigh
Whatley, Mr. Ben Bugg, Mr. Tom Penton, Mr. Jay Walters, and Mr. John Sweatman.
MEMBERS ABSENT: Dr. Arturo Menefee, Mr. Sheldon Whittelsey,
STAFF PRESENT: Mr. Matt Mosley, Planning Director
Mr. Martin Ogren, Assistant Planning Director
Mr. Jonathan Smith, Planner
Mrs. Rachel Dennis, Planner
Ms. Dana Gafford
Mr. Scott Parker, City Engineer
Mr. Robbie Treese, City Attorney
CALL TO ORDER: Chair Lucinda Cannon called the meeting to order at 3:00 p.m.
II.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Motion to approve Minutes from the June 23, 2026 Planning Commission Meeting
RESULT:
Passed
MOVER:
Director John Sweatman
SECONDER:
Tom Penton
AYES:
Chair Cannon, Walters, Bugg, Penton, Mayor Smith, Councilwoman Ward 3
Whatley, Director Sweatman
NAYS:
None
ABSTAIN:
None
III.
UPDATE ON PREVIOUS CASES
IV.
NEW BUSINESS
A.
CONDITIONAL USE – Public Hearing
1. …
Tue Jul 21, 2026 · 17:15
City Council
Opelika City Council to hear violence prevention presentation
The City Council will hold a work session to receive a presentation from the East Alabama Conflict Resolution and Violence Prevention Initiative Program. The body will also review and discuss items for the current council meeting agenda.
- Presentation by East Alabama Conflict Resolution and Violence Prevention Initiative Program
public-safetycommunity-programscity-council
✓ Decided: Opelika City Council holds work session with no substantive decisions
The City Council conducted a work session consisting of presentations and agenda reviews. No ordinances or resolutions were voted upon during this session.
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
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CITY OF OPELIKA
CITY COUNCIL
WORKSESSION MEETING AGENDA
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
July 21, 2026
TIME: 5:15 PM
1. A CALL TO ORDER
1. George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
2. PRESENTATIONS
1. East Alabama Conflict Resolution and Violence Prevention Initiative Program.
3. RESOLUTIONS
4. ORDINANCES
5. GENERAL UPDATES
6. REVIEW/DISCUSS CURRENT COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
1. Discussion of Consent Agenda or Regular Agenda Items.
7. GENERAL / DISCUSSION
8. END OF WORK SESSION
“In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Opelika will make
reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. If you need special assistance to
participate in this meeting, please contact the ADA Coordinator 72 hours prior to the meeting at
(334)705-5130.”
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
July 21, 2026
TIME: 5:15 PM
1. A CALL TO ORDER
President Allen called the work session to order at 05:15 pm.
1. George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
2. PRESENTATIONS
1. East Alabama Conflict Resolution and Violence Prevention Initiative Program.
State Representative Jeremy Gray and Dr. Paula Wilson made the presentation.
3. RESOLUTIONS
4. ORDINANCES
5. GENERAL UPDATES
6. REVIEW/DISCUSS CURRENT COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
Mr. Beams asked President Allen if Mr. Bill Schwenk could address the council
about 2nd Mission Alliance and its programs in Opelika. President Allen invited
Mr. Schwenck to speak and he did so.
1. Discussion of Consent Agenda or Regular Agenda Items.
Mayor Smith spoke about Lillie Finley's retirement as the Purchasing/Revenue
Manager and invited her replacement, Courtney Ross, to come up front and
introduce herself and present Resolution #6 on the Consent Agenda. Mayor
Smith then spoke about Resolution #4 on the Consent Agenda, informed
everyone of a Zoning Ordinance Update and Community Workshop on July 28,
and the State of the City on July 29.
7. GENERAL / DISCUSSION
8. END OF WORK SESSION
The work session ended at 05:54 pm.
Tue Jul 21, 2026 · 18:00
City Council
City Council to consider tax abatements and a special use permit for Verizon Wireless
The Opelika City Council will review several consent agenda items, including business licenses and tax exemptions. The body will also consider a special appropriation for a local alliance and a street closure request.
- Tax abatements and exemptions for Channing Street Copper Co.
- Special Use Permit request by Verizon Wireless at 2002 Steel Street
- Special Appropriation of $2,500 to 2nd Mission Alliance
- Alcohol license request for Oak Bowery Spirits, LLC dba Oak Bowery
- Temporary street closure for Trinity Church on 08-12-26
tax-abatementszoningbusiness-licensesgrantspublic-safety
✓ Decided: Opelika City Council approves several resolutions and a $2,500 appropriation
The City Council approved a consent agenda including an alcohol license, a street closure, and tax abatements. The council also passed a special appropriation for a local alliance. No items were denied or tabled.
- Approved alcohol license for Oak Bowery Spirits, LLC dba Oak Bowery (Unanimous)
- Approved temporary street closure for Trinity Church on 08-12-26 (Unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 149-26 for department expense reports (Unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 150-26 for Channing Street Copper Co. tax abatements and exemptions (Unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 151-26 for Mid-South RC&D Council grant application for first responder equipment (Unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 152-26 authorizing Alabama Department of Revenue to collect city taxes (Unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 153-26 for Verizon Wireless special use permit at 2002 Steel Street (Unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 154-26 for $2,500 special appropriation to 2nd Mission Alliance (Unanimous)
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
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CITY OF OPELIKA
CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
July 21, 2026
TIME: 6:00 PM
1. A CALL TO ORDER
2. ROLL CALL
1. George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
3. INVOCATION
1. Tom Tippett from Christian Care Ministries.
4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
1. Russell A. Jones, MMC - City Clerk.
5. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA
1. Motion to Adopt the CM Agenda for 07-21-26.
6. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING(S)
1. Minutes from the 07-07-26 council meeting.
7. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
8. MAYOR COMMENTS AND RECOGNITIONS
1. City's Financial Summary Report for June 2026.
2. June 2026 Monthly Building Summary Report.
3. Proclamation for Mrs. Annie Pearl Stinson.
4. Recognize Character Council Citizen of Excellent Character.
9. PUBLIC HEARINGS (Limit comments to 3 minutes or less)
10. AGENDA-RELATED PUBLIC COMMENTS (Limit comments to 3 minutes or less)
11. CONSENT AGENDA
1. General Business: Request Alcohol License - Oak Bowery Spirits, LLC dba Oak
Bowery - AB Manufacturer.
2. General Business: Request Temporary Street Closure for Trinity Church on 08-
12-26.
3. Resolution: Expense Reports from Various Departments.
4. Resolution: Approve Certain Tax Abatements and Exemptions for Channing
Street Copper Co. - ED.
5. Resolution: Approve Grant Application to Mid-South RC&D Council for First
Responder Equipment - OFD
6. Resolution: Authorize Alabama …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
July 21, 2026
TIME: 6:00 PM
1. A CALL TO ORDER
President Allen called the council meeting to order at 06:00 pm and asked Mr.
Jones to call the roll.
2. ROLL CALL
The Mayor and all City Council members were present.
1. George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
3. INVOCATION
Mr. Tippett provided the invocation.
1. Tom Tippett from Christian Care Ministries.
4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mr. Jones led the Pledge of Allegiance.
1. Russell A. Jones, MMC - City Clerk.
5. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA
1. Motion to Adopt the CM Agenda for 07-21-26.
MOTION TO ADOPT THE AGENDA: UNANIMOUS
RESULT: Passed
MOVER: Councilwoman Ward 2 Janataka Hughley-Holmes
SECONDER: Councilman Ward 4 - President Pro-Tem Chuck Beams
AYES: Councilman Ward 1 - President Allen, Councilwoman Ward 2
Hughley-Holmes, Councilwoman Ward 3 Whatley, Councilman
Ward 4 - President Pro-Tem Beams, Councilman Ward 5 Rauch
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
6. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING(S)
1. Minutes from the 07-07-26 council meeting.
President Allen stated that a copy of the minutes had been previously received by
the council and asked for a motion to approve the minutes. Mr. Rauch made a
motion to approve. Ms. Holmes seconded the motion. President Allen then asked
if there were any additions, deletions, or corrections to the minutes. President
Allen state …
🏢 Building at this address: 4 m tall
Tue Jul 14, 2026 · 09:00
General
Board to decide on two setback variances carried over from June
The Opelika Zoning Board of Adjustment will consider two variance requests that were carried over from its June meeting due to a lack of quorum. Both requests involve residential developments in commercial (C-2) zones and seek multiple setback reductions. The first is for 300 S 7th Street, and the second is for 500 Avenue A.
- Lee Tharp (Kadre Engineering) for The Parmer Group, 300 S 7th St, C-2 zone: requests front yard setback variance (15 ft from required 25 ft), side yard on street variance (10 ft from required 20 ft), and side yard variance (3 ft from required 10 ft)
- Richard Hayley (Hayley Investments LLC) for 500 Avenue A, C-2 zone: requests lot size variance (53 sq ft from required 7,500 sq ft), front yard setback variance (15 ft from required 30 ft), and side yard on street variance (10 ft from required 20 ft)
- Both items carried over from the June meeting due to lack of quorum
zoningvariancesboard-of-adjustmentcommercialhousing
300 Martin Luther King Blvd., Opelika
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CITY OF OPELIKA
ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
July 14, 2026
TIME: 9:00 AM
A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
B. VARIANCE
1. Lee Tharp, Kadre Engineering, authorized representative for The Parmer Group,
LLC property owner, 300 S 7th Street, C-2 zoning district, (R-5 standards apply
for residential developments in commercial zones). Requesting three setback
variances: (1) Requesting a 15' front yard setback variance from the minimum 25'
front yard setback requirement, (2) requesting a 10' side yard on street setback
variance from the minimum 20' side yard on street setback requirement (3)
requesting a 3' side yard setback variance from the minimum 10' side yard
setback requirement. (Item carried over from June meeting due to lack of
quorum.)
2. Richard Hayley, Hayley Investments LLC, property owner, 500 Avenue A, C-2
zoning district (R-5 standards apply for residential developments in commercial
zones). Requesting three variances: (1) requesting a 53 square foot lot size
variance from the minimum 7,500 sf lot size requirement, (2) requesting a 15 foot
front yard setback variance from the minimum 30-foot front yard setback, (3)
requesting a 10 foot side yard on street setback variance from the minimum 20'
side yard on street setback. (Item carried over from June meeting due to lack of
quorum.)
“In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Opelika will make
reasonable arrange …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
MINUTES
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
July 14, 2026
TIME: 9:00 AM
A.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The Zoning Board of Adjustment held its regular monthly meeting July 14, 2026 in the Meeting
Chambers, located at the Opelika Municipal Court. Certified letters have been mailed to all
adjacent property owners for related issues.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Chair Wilbert Payne, Vice Chair Brandon Hilyer, Mrs. Micah
Melnick, Mr. Chris Anthony, Mr. Monty Newport.
MEMBERS ABSENT: Mrs. Tipi Miller, Mrs. Raven Harvis
STAFF PRESENT:
Mr. Martin Ogren, Assistant Planning Director
Mrs. Rachel Dennis, Planner
Ms. Dana Gafford, Planning and Zoning Technician
CALL TO ORDER: Chair Wilbert Payne called the meeting to order at 9:00 am.
Motion to approve the Zoning Board of Adjustment Minutes, April 14, 2026
RESULT:
Passed
MOVER:
Position 7 Chris Anthony
SECONDER:
Position 2 Brandon Hilyer
AYES:
Position 2 Hilyer, Position 3 Melnick, Position 5 Newport, Position 6 Payne,
Position 7 Anthony
NAYS:
None
ABSTAIN:
None
B.
VARIANCE
1.
Lee Tharp, Kadre Engineering, authorized representative for The Parmer Group,
LLC property owner, 300 S 7th Street, C-2 zoning district, (R-5 standards apply
for residential developments in commercial zones). Requesting three setback
variances: (1) Requesting a 15' front yard setback variance from the minimum 25'
front yard setback requirement, (2) requesting a 10' side yard on street set …
Tue Jul 14, 2026 · 17:30
General
Parks board to consider tot watch request and field updates
The Opelika Board of Parks & Recreation will hold a regular meeting to discuss new business items including a Tot Watch request, an update on West Ridge Softball Fields, a proposal from the Lee County Youth Development Center, and a review of a June 11 incident involving cameras. The meeting is primarily procedural with no votes on ordinances or budget items.
- Tot Watch Request by Florencia Knight
- West Ridge Softball Fields discussion by Avery Davis and Libby Gaberlavage
- Lee County Youth Development Center proposal
- Incident on Saturday, June 11 (Camera review)
parksrecreationyouthsportspublic-safety
1001 SportsPlex Parkway, Opelika
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Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY OF OPELIKA
BOARD OF PARKS & RECREATION
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
1001 SportsPlex Parkway
July 14, 2026
TIME: 5:30 PM
1. A CALL TO ORDER
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
3. NEW BUSINESS
1. Tot Watch Request-Florencia Knight
2. West Ridge Softball Fields-Avery Davis/Libby Gaberlavage
3. Lee County Youth Development Center
4. Incident Saturday, June 11 (Camera)
4. OTHER BUSINESS
5. Next Meeting: August 11 at Spring Villa Penn Younge Room
5. ADJOURN
“In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Opelika will make
reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. If you need special assistance to
participate in this meeting, please contact the ADA Coordinator 72 hours prior to the meeting at
(334)705-5130.”
Thu Jul 9, 2026 · 16:30
General
Historic Preservation Commission to review porch, window, and door changes
The Opelika Historic Preservation Commission will consider two Certificate of Appropriateness applications at 714 Ave D and 830 N. Railroad Ave. The commission will also discuss an enforcement report and staff report. The meeting includes approval of June 11, 2026 minutes and setting the next meeting date for August 13, 2026.
- 714 Ave D (Geneva Historic District): COA to add front porch, replace windows, and add overhangs (applicant Alexander Bell)
- 830 N. Railroad Ave (Downtown Historic District): COA to replace doors (applicant Scott Brown)
- Enforcement report and staff report to be discussed
- Next meeting scheduled for August 13, 2026
historic-preservationcertificates-of-appropriatenessopelikapublic-hearing
300 MLK Boulevard, Opelika
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CITY OF OPELIKA
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
July 9, 2026
TIME: 4:30 PM
1. A CALL TO ORDER
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. Approve June 11, 2026 minutes
3. PUBLIC HEARINGS (Limit comments to 3 minutes or less)
4. OLD BUSINESS
5. NEW BUSINESS
2. 714 Ave D: Geneva Historic District
COA: Add Front Porch, Replace Windows, and Add Overhangs
Applicant: Alexander Bell
3. 830 N. Railroard Ave: Downtown Historic District
COA: Replace Doors
Applicant: Scott Brown
6. OTHER BUSINESS
4. Enforcement Report
5. Staff Report
6. Next meeting DATE
1. Next meeting August 13, 2026
7. ADJOURN
“In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Opelika will make
reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. If you need special assistance to
participate in this meeting, please contact the ADA Coordinator 72 hours prior to the meeting at
(334)705-5130.”
Tue Jul 7, 2026 · 17:15
City Council
School projects update from Scout Program Management
The City Council will hear an update on current and future Opelika City School Projects presented by Scout Program Management. The worksession also includes discussion of the upcoming regular meeting agenda.
- Presentation on Opelika City School Projects by Scout Program Management
schoolseducationcity-councilpresentation
✓ Decided: Opelika City Council held a work session regarding school projects and rezoning
The council held a work session featuring a presentation on Opelika City School projects. Discussion included the status of a future rezoning moratorium and questions regarding specific resolutions.
- No substantive decisions were recorded during this work session
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY OF OPELIKA
CITY COUNCIL
WORKSESSION MEETING AGENDA
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
July 7, 2026
TIME: 5:15 PM
1. A CALL TO ORDER
1. George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
2. PRESENTATIONS
1. Update on Current and Future Opelika City School Projects - Scout Program
Management.
3. RESOLUTIONS
4. ORDINANCES
5. GENERAL UPDATES
6. REVIEW/DISCUSS CURRENT COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
1. Discussion of Consent Agenda or Regular Agenda Items.
7. GENERAL / DISCUSSION
8. END OF WORK SESSION
“In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Opelika will make
reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. If you need special assistance to
participate in this meeting, please contact the ADA Coordinator 72 hours prior to the meeting at
(334)705-5130.”
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
July 7, 2026
TIME: 5:15 PM
1. A CALL TO ORDER
President Allen called the work session to order at 05:17 pm.
1. George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
The Mayor and all City Council members were present.
2. PRESENTATIONS
1. Update on Current and Future Opelika City School Projects - Scout Program
Management.
Lamar Zuiderhoek from Scout Program Management gave the presentation.
3. RESOLUTIONS
4. ORDINANCES
5. GENERAL UPDATES
Matt Mosley gave an update on the current status of the future rezoning
moratorium.
6. REVIEW/DISCUSS CURRENT COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
1. Discussion of Consent Agenda or Regular Agenda Items.
Mr. Rauch asked questions about Resolutions #9 and #10 that were answered by
Mr. Sweatman, and Resolution #14 that was answered by Mr. McInnis.
7. GENERAL / DISCUSSION
Mr. Jones asked that the council consider suspending the rules to have a second
reading on Ordinance #2.
8. END OF WORK SESSION
The work session ended at 05:57 pm.
Tue Jul 7, 2026 · 18:00
City Council
Council to vote on rezoning 18.34 acres on Birmingham Highway to commercial
The council will hold a public hearing on a weed abatement assessment at 606 Dogwood Avenue and consider a consent agenda with over $7.9 million in construction bids, including Bridgewater Boulevard, Hi-Pack Drive, and the Mill Village roundabout. Two ordinances are up for votes: a second reading to rezone 18.34 acres on Birmingham Highway from R-4 to C-2 with GC-P overlay, and a first reading to annex 6571 U.S. Highway 431 N. Resolutions include tax abatements for BS Logistics America and Yongsan Automotive USA, a FEMA grant application for North Park sewer improvements, and an amended employment contract with the police chief.
- Public hearing on weed abatement at 606 Dogwood Avenue
- Bid: Bridgewater Boulevard Construction - $1,530,025
- Bid: Grade, Drain, Base & Pave Hi-Pack Drive - $2,820,262
- Bid: Mill Village Roundabout and Roadway Improvement Project - $3,339,029
- Ordinance: Rezone 3400 block Birmingham Hwy, 18.34 acres from R-4 to C-2 (2nd reading)
zoningannexationconstructiontax-abatementpublic-hearingweed-abatementconsent-agenda
✓ Decided: Council approves $7.7M in road construction bids and zoning change
The Opelika City Council approved a consent agenda including three major road construction bids totaling over $7.7 million: Bridgewater Boulevard ($1,530,025), Hi-Pack Drive ($2,820,262), and the Mill Village Roundabout ($3,339,029). The council also approved a second-reading zoning change for 18.34 acres on Birmingham Hwy from R-4 to C-2, and unanimously approved an annexation petition for property at 6571 U.S. Highway 431 N. A weed abatement assessment for 606 Dogwood Avenue was approved after a public hearing with no speakers.
- Approved $1,530,025 bid for Bridgewater Boulevard Construction (Resolution 134-26)
- Approved $2,820,262 bid for Grade, Drain, Base & Pave Hi-Pack Drive (Resolution 135-26)
- Approved $3,339,029 bid for Mill Village Roundabout and Roadway Improvement Project (Resolution 136-26)
- Approved amended employment contract with Patrick McCulloch for OPD (Resolution 140-26)
- Approved tax abatements for BS Logistics America, LLC and Yongsan Automotive USA, Inc (Resolutions 141-26, 142-26)
- Approved FEMA BRIC grant application for North Park Sewer Improvements (Resolution 143-26)
- Approved zoning change for 3400 Block Birmingham Hwy from R-4 to C-2 (Ordinance 022-26)
- Approved annexation at 6571 U.S. Highway 431 N (Ordinance 023-26)
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY OF OPELIKA
CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
July 7, 2026
TIME: 6:00 PM
1. A CALL TO ORDER
2. ROLL CALL
1. George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
3. INVOCATION
1. Mayor Eddie Smith.
4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
1. Boy Scout Troup 858.
5. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA
1. Motion to Adopt the CM Agenda for 07-07-26.
6. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING(S)
1. Minutes from the 06-16-26 council meeting.
7. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
8. MAYOR COMMENTS AND RECOGNITIONS
9. PUBLIC HEARINGS (Limit comments to 3 minutes or less)
1. Public Hearing - Weed Abatement Assessment - 606 Dogwood Avenue.
10. AGENDA-RELATED PUBLIC COMMENTS (Limit comments to 3 minutes or less)
11. CONSENT AGENDA
1. General Business: Request Temporary Street Closure - Foundry UMC Bible
School on 07-22 thru 07-24-26.
2. Bid: Bridgewater Boulevard Construction - ENG ($1,530,025).
3. Bid: Grade, Drain, Base & Pave Hi-Pack Drive - ENG ($2,820,262).
4. Bid: Mill Village Roundabout and Roadway Improvement Project - ENG
($3,339,029).
5. Resolution: Expense Reports from Various Departments.
6. Resolution: Purchase - Panasonic Hardware Management Service Agreement -
IT ($42,970).
7. Resolution: Purchase - Two-Way Radios and Related Equipment - OFD
($71,260).
8. Resolution: Approve Amended Employment Contract with Patrick McCulloch -
OPD.
9. Resolution: Approve Certain …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
July 7, 2026
TIME: 6:00 PM
1. A CALL TO ORDER
President Allen called the council meeting to order at 06:01 pm and asked Mr.
Jones to call the roll.
2. ROLL CALL
The Mayor and all City Council members were present.
1. George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
3. INVOCATION
Mayor Smith provided the invocation.
1. Mayor Eddie Smith.
4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Boy Scout Troop 858 led the Pledge of Allegiance.
1. Boy Scout Troup 858.
5. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA
1. Motion to Adopt the CM Agenda for 07-07-26.
MOTION TO ADOPT THE AGENDA: UNANIMOUS
RESULT: Passed
MOVER: Councilman Ward 5 Todd Rauch
SECONDER: Councilwoman Ward 2 Janataka Hughley-Holmes
AYES: Councilman Ward 1 - President Allen, Councilwoman Ward 2
Hughley-Holmes, Councilwoman Ward 3 Whatley, Councilman
Ward 4 - President Pro-Tem Beams, Councilman Ward 5 Rauch
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
6. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING(S)
1. Minutes from the 06-16-26 council meeting.
President Allen stated that a copy of the minutes had been previously received by
the council and asked for a motion to approve the minutes. Ms. Holmes made a
motion to approve. Mr. Beams seconded the motion. President Allen then asked
if there were any additions, deletions, or corrections to the minutes. President
Allen stated, having no corrections, the minutes stand approved …
Tue Jun 23, 2026 · 09:00
General
Zoning Board will consider two property variance requests
The Zoning Board of Adjustment will first approve the minutes from its previous meeting. It will then discuss two variance applications: one from Lee Tharp for 300 S 7th Street and another from Richard Hayley for 500 Avenue A, both in the C-2 zoning district. Each applicant seeks setbacks or lot‑size adjustments that differ from the district’s minimum requirements.
- Approval of minutes from the prior meeting
- Lee Tharp (Kadre Engineering) requests three setbacks for 300 S 7th St: 15' front yard (vs 25' min), 10' side yard on street (vs 20' min), 3' side yard (vs 10' min)
- Richard Hayley requests three variances for 500 Avenue A: 53 sf lot size reduction (vs 7,500 sf min), 15' front yard (vs 30' min), 10' side yard on street (vs 20' min)
zoningvariancessetbackslot-sizeproperty
300 Martin Luther King Blvd., Opelika
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY OF OPELIKA
ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
June 23, 2026
TIME: 9:00 AM
A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
B. VARIANCE
1. Lee Tharp, Kadre Engineering, authorized representative for The Palmer Group,
LLC property owner, 300 S 7th Street, C-2 zoning district, (R-5 standards apply
for residential developments in commercial zones). Requesting three setback
variances: (1) Requesting a 15' front yard setback variance from the minimum 25'
front yard setback requirement, (2) requesting a 10' side yard on street setback
variance from the minimum 20' side yard on street setback requirement (3)
requesting a 3' side yard setback variance from the minimum 10' side yard
setback requirement.
2. Richard Hayley, Hayley Investments LLC, property owner, 500 Avenue A, C-2
zoning district (R-5 standards apply for residential developments in commercial
zones). Requesting three variances: (1) requesting a 53 square foot lot size
variance from the minimum 7,500 sf lot size requirement, (2) requesting a 15 foot
front yard setback variance from the minimum 30-foot front yard setback, (3)
requesting a 10 foot side yard on street setback variance from the minimum 20'
side yard on street setback.
“In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Opelika will make
reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. If you need special assistance to
participate in this meeting, please contac …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
MINUTES
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
June 23, 2026
TIME: 9:00 AM
A.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The Zoning Board of Adjustment held its regular monthly meeting June 23, 2026 n the Meeting
Chambers, located at the Opelika Municipal Court. Certified letters have been mailed to all
adjacent property owners for related issues.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mrs. Tipi Miller, Mrs. Raven Harvis, Mrs. Micah Melnick
MEMBERS ABSENT: Chair Wilbert Payne, Vice Chair Brandon Hilyer, Mr. Chris Anthony
STAFF PRESENT: Mr. Matt Mosley, Planning Director
Mr. Martin Ogren, Assistant Planning Director
Mrs. Rachel Dennis, Planner
Ms. Dana Gafford, Planning and Zoning Technician
The legal threshold for a quorum was not met for this meeting. Approval of minutes will
be presented at the July 14, 2026 meeting.
B.
VARIANCE
1.
Lee Tharp, Kadre Engineering, authorized representative for The Palmer Group,
LLC property owner, 300 S 7th Street, C-2 zoning district, (R-5 standards apply
for residential developments in commercial zones). Requesting three setback
variances: (1) Requesting a 15' front yard setback variance from the minimum 25'
front yard setback requirement, (2) requesting a 10' side yard on street setback
variance from the minimum 20' side yard on street setback requirement (3)
requesting a 3' side yard setback variance from the minimum 10' side yard
setback requirement.
No action due to lack of quorum. This item will be pr …
Tue Jun 23, 2026 · 15:00
General
Planning Commission to hear 156-lot Mayfair subdivision and zoning text changes
The Opelika Planning Commission will hold public hearings on a preliminary plat for Mayfair Subdivision Phase 2 (156 single-family lots), two conditional use requests, and proposed text amendments to the zoning ordinance regarding alcohol and hemp/CBD uses. The Commission will also approve minutes from May 26, 2026, and receive an update on previous cases.
- Preliminary plat for Mayfair SD Phase 2, 156 lots on S Uniroyal Road (PUD zone)
- Conditional use for car wash at 2002 Marvyn Parkway (C-3, GC-P zone, 1.2 acres)
- Conditional use for office/warehouse at 2605 Society Hill Road (C-3 zone, 32,670 sf)
- Text amendments to definitions and use categories for alcohol and hemp/CBD in zoning ordinance
planning-commissionsubdivisionconditional-usezoning-amendmentsalcoholhemp-cbdopelika
✓ Decided: Planning Commission approves 156-lot Mayfair Phase 2 preliminary plat
The Opelika Planning Commission approved the preliminary plat for Mayfair Subdivision Phase 2, a 156-lot single-family residential development on South Uniroyal Road, with staff recommendations including sidewalks, underground utilities, and setback notes. The commission also approved two conditional use permits: a car wash redevelopment at 2002 Marvyn Parkway with operating hours amended to 5 a.m.–9 p.m., and a contractor's office with outdoor storage at 2605 Society Hill Road. A proposed zoning ordinance amendment on alcohol and hemp/CBD uses was tabled for further review.
- Approved preliminary plat for Mayfair SD Phase 2, 156 lots (9-0)
- Approved conditional use for car wash at 2002 Marvyn Parkway, hours 5 a.m.–9 p.m. (9-0)
- Approved conditional use for contractor's office/storage at 2605 Society Hill Road (9-0)
- Tabled zoning ordinance amendments for alcohol and hemp/CBD uses
- Approved minutes of May 26, 2026 meeting (9-0)
300 Martin Luther King Blvd., Opelika
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY OF OPELIKA
PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
June 23, 2026
TIME: 3:00 PM
I. WELCOME - Some items at this meeting will have a designated public hearing (noted
below). Individuals are limited to one 5-minute comment period per public hearing.
II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - May 26, 2026
III. UPDATE ON PREVIOUS CASES
IV. NEW BUSINESS
A. PLAT (Preliminary Only) – Public Hearing
1. Mayfair SD, Phase 2, 156 lots, Josh Mura, Samford Group authorized
representative for Aaron Adams, property owner, 2405 S Uniroyal Road, PUD
zone, 156 single family home lots.
B. CONDITIONAL USE – Public Hearing
2. Kumar Patel, property owner, 2002 Marvyn Parkway, C-3, GC-P zone, 1.2 acre
lot, Car Wash self-service bays and automatic.
3. Reynolds Cook/Austin Harmon, authorized representative for Reynolds Cook,
property owner, 2605 Society Hill Road, C-3 zone, 32,670 sf Southern Lawns
office and warehouse.
C. TEXT AMENDMENTS TO THE ZONING ORDINANCE — Public
Hearing
4. Revision to Section 2.2 Definitions, Section 7.3. C. Use Categories (matrix table)
for alcohol and hemp/CBD uses, and Section 8.28.5 Package Liquor Store
Standards for Use - A public hearing to consider a recommendation to the City
Council on proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance.
“In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Opelika will make
reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. If you need …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
PLANNING COMMISSION
MINUTES
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
June 23, 2026
TIME: 3:00 PM
I.
WELCOME - Some items at this meeting will have a designated public hearing (noted
below). Individuals are limited to one 5-minute comment period per public hearing.
The City of Opelika Planning Commission held its regular monthly meeting June 23, 2026 in
the Meeting Chambers, located at the Opelika Municipal Court. Certified letters have been
mailed to all adjacent property owners for related issues.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Chair Lucinda Cannon, Mayor Eddie Smith, Councilwoman Leigh
Whatley, Mr. Sheldon Whittelsey, Dr. Arturo Menefee, Mr. Ben Bugg, Mr. Tom Penton, Mr.
Jay Walters, and Mr. John Sweatman.
MEMBERS ABSENT:
STAFF PRESENT: Mr. Matt Mosley, Planning Director
Mr. Martin Ogren, Assistant Planning Director
Mrs. Rachel Dennis, Planner
Ms. Dana Gafford, Planning and Zoning Technician
Mr. Scott Parker, City Engineer
Mr. Robbie Treese, City Attorney
CALL TO ORDER: Chair Lucinda Cannon called the meeting to order at 3:00 p.m.
II.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES - May 26, 2026
Approval of Planning Commission Minutes May 26, 2026
Motion to approve
RESULT:
Passed
MOVER:
Jay Walters
SECONDER:
Director John Sweatman
AYES:
Chair Cannon, Walters, Bugg, Whittelsey, Penton, Menefee, Mayor Smith,
Councilwoman Ward 3 Whatley, Director Sweatman
NAYS:
None
ABSTAIN:
None
III.
UPDATE ON PREVIOUS CASES
IV.
NEW BUSINESS
A.
P …
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
Named votes as recorded in the official record.
Motion to approve RESULT: Passed MOVER: Jay Walters SECONDER: Director John Sweatman
8 yea
Cannon yea · Walters yea · Bugg yea · Whittelsey yea · Penton yea · Menefee yea · Smith yea · Sweatman yea
that the development will retain or install landscape buffering along the corridor
8 yea
Cannon yea · Walters yea · Bugg yea · Whittelsey yea · Penton yea · Menefee yea · Smith yea · Sweatman yea
[context] until 9:00 p.m
8 yea
Cannon yea · Walters yea · Bugg yea · Whittelsey yea · Penton yea · Menefee yea · Smith yea · Sweatman yea
Motion to grant conditional use approval with staff recommendations RESULT: Passed MOVER: Arturo Menefee SECONDER: Sheldon Whittelsey
8 yea
Cannon yea · Walters yea · Bugg yea · Whittelsey yea · Penton yea · Menefee yea · Smith yea · Sweatman yea
Motion to table the item. RESULT: Passed MOVER: Arturo Menefee SECONDER: Sheldon Whittelsey
8 yea
Cannon yea · Walters yea · Bugg yea · Whittelsey yea · Penton yea · Menefee yea · Smith yea · Sweatman yea
Motion to adjourn at 3:42 p.m. RESULT: Passed MOVER: Arturo Menefee SECONDER: Sheldon Whittelsey
8 yea
Cannon yea · Walters yea · Bugg yea · Whittelsey yea · Penton yea · Menefee yea · Smith yea · Sweatman yea
Tue Jun 16, 2026 · 17:45
City Council
Council worksession to review upcoming regular meeting agenda
This is a worksession of the Opelika City Council, held to review and discuss items slated for the upcoming regular council meeting. No resolutions, ordinances, or other substantive items are listed for action during this session. The meeting is procedural in nature, focusing on agenda preparation.
- Discussion of consent agenda and regular agenda items for the upcoming council meeting
city-councilworksessionagenda-review
✓ Decided: The Opelika City Council held a work session on June 16, 2026
The council conducted a work session that included presentations from the Lee County Emergency Management Agency and Mr. Motley. No substantive decisions or votes were recorded during this session.
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY OF OPELIKA
CITY COUNCIL
WORKSESSION MEETING AGENDA
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
June 16, 2026
TIME: 5:45 PM
1. A CALL TO ORDER
1. George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
2. PRESENTATIONS
3. RESOLUTIONS
4. ORDINANCES
5. GENERAL UPDATES
6. REVIEW/DISCUSS CURRENT COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
1. Discussion of Consent Agenda or Regular Agenda Items.
7. GENERAL / DISCUSSION
8. END OF WORK SESSION
“In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Opelika will make
reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. If you need special assistance to
participate in this meeting, please contact the ADA Coordinator 72 hours prior to the meeting at
(334)705-5130.”
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
June 16, 2026
TIME: 5:45 PM
1. A CALL TO ORDER
President Allen called the work session to order at 05:45 pm.
1. George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
Mayor Smith, President Allen, Ms. Holmes, Ms. Whatley, and Mr. Beams were
present. Mr. Rauch was absent.
2. PRESENTATIONS
Rita Smith from the Lee County Emergency Management Agency presented
Consent Agenda item #6.
Mr. Motley presented Consent Agenda item # 7 at the request of President Allen.
3. RESOLUTIONS
4. ORDINANCES
5. GENERAL UPDATES
6. REVIEW/DISCUSS CURRENT COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
1. Discussion of Consent Agenda or Regular Agenda Items.
None.
7. GENERAL / DISCUSSION
8. END OF WORK SESSION
The work session ended at 05:54 pm.
Tue Jun 16, 2026 · 18:00
City Council
Rezoning 18.34 acres on Birmingham Hwy to commercial - public hearing & first reading
The council will hold a public hearing on rezoning 18.34 acres on Birmingham Highway from R-4 to C-2 with a coordinated greenway plan, followed by a first reading of the ordinance. Consent agenda items include purchase of a 2026 Ford Explorer for $39,012, a special use permit for Verizon Wireless on Frederick Road, and a lump sum RSA payment of $78,405 to retirees. Mayor will present monthly financial and building summaries and recognize the police department for accreditation.
- Public hearing and first reading to rezone 3400 block Birmingham Hwy (18.34 acres) from R-4 to C-2, GC-P
- Purchase one 2026 Ford Explorer for $39,012
- Special use permit for Verizon Wireless at 2404 Frederick Road
- Lump sum RSA payment of $78,405 to retirees
- Downtown street closure for Brewzle Bourbon Festival on Aug 28–29, 2026
zoningpolicebudgetpublic-hearingbusiness-developmentstreetsretirees
✓ Decided: Council approves several resolutions and introduces a zoning ordinance change
The council approved the consent agenda including various departmental resolutions and a vehicle purchase. An ordinance to rezone 18.34 acres at the 3400 Block of Birmingham Hwy was introduced for its first reading.
- Approved June 2, 2026 meeting minutes
- Approved Brewzle Bourbon Festival street closure (unanimous)
- Approved department expense reports (unanimous)
- Approved disposal of city personal property (unanimous)
- Approved purchase of a 2026 Ford Explorer for $39,012 (unanimous)
- Approved Village at Waterford Phase 4A infrastructure acceptance (unanimous)
- Approved East Alabama Regional Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (unanimous)
- Introduced rezoning ordinance for 3400 Block Birmingham Hwy (first reading)
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY OF OPELIKA
CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
June 16, 2026
TIME: 6:00 PM
1. A CALL TO ORDER
2. ROLL CALL
1. George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
3. INVOCATION
1. Will Spivey from First Baptist Church of Opelika.
4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
1. Boy Scout Troop 11.
5. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA
1. Motion to Adopt the CM Agenda for 06-16-26.
6. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING(S)
1. Minutes from the 06-02-26 council meeting.
7. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
8. MAYOR COMMENTS AND RECOGNITIONS
1. City's Financial Summary Report for May 2026.
2. May 2026 Monthly Building Summary Report.
3. Recognize OPD for Earning Accreditation from the Alabama Association of
Chiefs of Police (AACOP).
4. Recognize Character Council Citizen of Excellent Character.
9. PUBLIC HEARINGS (Limit comments to 3 minutes or less)
1. Public Hearing - Amend Zoning Ordinance & Map: 3400 Block Birmingham
Hwy, 18.34 Acres, from R-4 to C-2, GC-P.
10. AGENDA-RELATED PUBLIC COMMENTS (Limit comments to 3 minutes or less)
11. CONSENT AGENDA
1. General Business: Request Downtown Street Closure - Brewzle Bourbon
Festival on 08-28 and 08-29-26.
2. Resolution: Expense Reports from Various Departments.
3. Resolution: Designate City Personal Property Surplus and Authorize Disposal.
4. Resolution: Purchase - One (1) 2026 Ford Explorer - PLAN ($39,012).
5. Resolution: A …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
June 16, 2026
TIME: 6:00 PM
1. A CALL TO ORDER
President Allen called the council meeting to order at 06:00 pm and asked Mr.
Jones to call the roll.
2. ROLL CALL
Mayor Smith, President Allen, Ms. Holmes, Ms. Whatley, and Mr. Beams were
present. Mr. Rauch was absent.
1. George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
3. INVOCATION
Mr. Spivey provided the invocation.
1. Will Spivey from First Baptist Church of Opelika.
4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Boy Scout Troop 11 led the Pledge of Allegiance.
1. Boy Scout Troop 11.
5. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA
1. Motion to Adopt the CM Agenda for 06-16-26.
MOTION TO ADOPT THE AGENDA: UNANIMOUS
RESULT: Passed
MOVER: Councilman Ward 4 - President Pro-Tem Chuck Beams
SECONDER: Councilwoman Ward 2 Janataka Hughley-Holmes
AYES: Councilman Ward 1 - President Allen, Councilwoman Ward 2
Hughley-Holmes, Councilwoman Ward 3 Whatley, Councilman
Ward 4 - President Pro-Tem Beams
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
6. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING(S)
1. Minutes from the 06-02-26 council meeting.
President Allen stated that a copy of the minutes had been previously received by
the council and asked for a motion to approve the minutes. Ms. Holmes made a
motion to approve. Ms. Whatley seconded the motion. President Allen then asked
if there were any additions, deletions, or corrections to the min …
Mon Jun 15, 2026 · 18:00
General
1100 Glenn Street, Opelika
Thu Jun 11, 2026 · 16:30
General
Historic Preservation Commission to review request for 601 N. Railroad Ave
The Historic Preservation Commission will meet to discuss new business and review staff and enforcement reports. The primary agenda item is a Certificate of Appropriateness for a property in the Downtown Historic District.
- 601 N. Railroad Ave: COA for Widows Walk, Rear Porch & Ramp, and Landscaping
historic-preservationzoningdowntown-historic-district
✓ Decided: Historic Preservation Commission approves COA for 601 S. Railroad Ave project
The commission approved the May 14, 2026 minutes. It approved the requested Certificate of Appropriateness for the widow's walk, rear ramp, and tree removal at 601 S. Railroad Ave, following staff recommendations. The meeting was then adjourned.
- Approved May 14, 2026 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved COA for widow's walk, rear ramp, and tree removal at 601 S. Railroad Ave (unanimous)
- Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
300 MLK Boulevard, Opelika
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY OF OPELIKA
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
June 11, 2026
TIME: 4:30 PM
1. A CALL TO ORDER
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. Approve May 14, 2026 minutes.
3. PUBLIC HEARINGS (Limit comments to 3 minutes or less)
4. OLD BUSINESS
5. NEW BUSINESS
2. 601 N. Railroad Ave: Downtown Historic District
COA: Widows Walk, Rear Porch & Ramp, Landscaping
6. OTHER BUSINESS
3. Enforcement Report
4. Staff Report
5. Next meeting DATE
1. Next meeting July 9, 2026
7. ADJOURN
“In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Opelika will make
reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. If you need special assistance to
participate in this meeting, please contact the ADA Coordinator 72 hours prior to the meeting at
(334)705-5130.”
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
MINUTES
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
June 11, 2026
TIME: 4:30 PM
1. A CALL TO ORDER
Mike Buckelew called the meeting to order at 4:30 p.m.
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A motion was made by Aaron Bushey to approve May 14, 2026 minutes. The
motion was seconded by Aaron Kovak. All approved.
1. Approve May 14, 2026 minutes.
3. PUBLIC HEARINGS (Limit comments to 3 minutes or less)
Mike Buckelew opened the floor for public comments. There were none.
4. OLD BUSINESS
There was no old business to discuss.
5. NEW BUSINESS
2. 601 N. Railroad Ave: Downtown Historic District
COA: Widows Walk, Rear Porch & Ramp, Landscaping
Agenda Item #: 1
Meeting Date: 06/11/2026
Action Requested: COA: Widows Walk, Rear Porch & Ramp,
Landscaping
Location of Property: 601 S. Railroad Ave; Downtown Historic District
Petitioner: Jake Whaley
Resources:
Robertson-Huskey House. Circa 1894. Two-story Second Empire
Italianate home, wood frame, mansard roof and dormers. This home is
in the Downtown Historic District. However, it is not on the National
Registry.
Proposal: The petitioner requests a COA for the following:
1. Update the widow's walk to include corner columns with lap siding
and decorative wood railing to match the front porch.
2. Install a wood ramp and steps painted to match front porch steps.
Face ramp with brick and cap with concrete to match the front porch.
3. Remove six (6) trees and replac …
Tue Jun 2, 2026 · 18:00
City Council
City Council to consider $1.2 million intersection project and $688k police equipment
The City Council will hold public hearings regarding demolitions and weed abatement assessments. The body is also reviewing bids for infrastructure improvements and police equipment purchases.
- Waverly Parkway and Dunlop Drive Intersection Improvements bid ($1,222,586)
- Purchase of Tasers, equipment, and training for OPD ($688,879)
- Demolition public hearings for 500-A and 500-B Martin Luther King Boulevard
- Weed abatement assessments for 500-A and 500-B Martin Luther King Blvd and 1211 Magnolia Street
- Special appropriation to GEMS Empowered for Juneteenth Celebration ($2,000)
roadspolicedemolitionpublic-safetybudget
✓ Decided: Opelika City Council approves demolitions and weed abatement assessments
The City Council approved several resolutions regarding property demolitions and weed abatement assessments for Martin Luther King Boulevard and Magnolia Street. Additional approvals included road improvements, police equipment purchases, and Juneteenth celebration funding.
- Approved street closure for Juneteenth Celebration (Unanimous)
- Approved robotic turf mowing system lease/service agreement (Unanimous)
- Approved $1,222,586 for Waverly Parkway and Dunlop Drive intersection improvements (Unanimous)
- Approved expense reports from various departments (Unanimous)
- Approved $688,879 for police tasers, equipment, and training (Unanimous)
- Approved MOU with U.S. Army Garrison, Fort Benning (Unanimous)
- Approved $2,000 special appropriation for Juneteenth Celebration (Unanimous)
- Approved demolition of 500-A and 500-B Martin Luther King Boulevard (Unanimous)
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY OF OPELIKA
CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
June 2, 2026
TIME: 6:00 PM
1. A CALL TO ORDER
2. ROLL CALL
1. George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
3. INVOCATION
1. Will Spivey from First Baptist Church of Opelika.
4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
1. Russell A. Jones, MMC - City Clerk.
5. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA
1. Motion to Adopt the CM Agenda for 06-02-26.
6. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING(S)
1. Minutes from the 05-19-26 council meeting.
7. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
8. MAYOR COMMENTS AND RECOGNITIONS
1. Upcoming Events on June 6, 2026.
9. PUBLIC HEARINGS (Limit comments to 3 minutes or less)
1. Public Hearing - Demolition - 500-A Martin Luther King Boulevard.
2. Public Hearing - Demolition - 500-B Martin Luther King Boulevard.
3. Public Hearing - Weed Abatement Assessment - 500-A Martin Luther King
Boulevard.
4. Public Hearing - Weed Abatement Assessment - 500-B Martin Luther King
Boulevard.
5. Public Hearing - Weed Abatement Assessment - 1211 Magnolia Street.
10. AGENDA-RELATED PUBLIC COMMENTS (Limit comments to 3 minutes or less)
11. CONSENT AGENDA
1. General Business: Request Downtown Street Closure - Juneteenth Celebration
on 06-19-26.
2. Bid: Robotic Turf Mowing System Lease and Repair/Service Agreement - PW ($
as needed).
3. Bid: Waverly Parkway and Dunlop Drive Intersection Improvements - ENG
($1,222,586).
4 …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
June 2, 2026
TIME: 6:00 PM
1. A CALL TO ORDER
President Allen called the council meeting to order at 06:00 pm and asked Mr.
Jones to call the roll.
2. ROLL CALL
The Mayor and all City Council members were present.
1. George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
3. INVOCATION
Mr. Spivey provided the invocation.
1. Will Spivey from First Baptist Church of Opelika.
4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mr. Jones led the Pledge of Allegiance.
1. Russell A. Jones, MMC - City Clerk.
5. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA
1. Motion to Adopt the CM Agenda for 06-02-26.
MOTION TO ADOPT THE AGENDA: UNANIMOUS
RESULT: Passed
MOVER: Councilwoman Ward 2 Janataka Hughley-Holmes
SECONDER: Councilman Ward 4 - President Pro-Tem Chuck Beams
AYES: Councilman Ward 1 - President Allen, Councilwoman Ward 2
Hughley-Holmes, Councilwoman Ward 3 Whatley, Councilman
Ward 4 - President Pro-Tem Beams, Councilman Ward 5 Rauch
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
6. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING(S)
1. Minutes from the 05-19-26 council meeting.
President Allen stated that a copy of the minutes had been previously received by
the council and asked for a motion to approve the minutes. Mr. Rauch made a
motion to approve. Ms. Holmes seconded the motion. President Allen then asked
if there were any additions, deletions, or corrections to the minutes. President
Allen s …
Tue Jun 2, 2026 · 17:45
City Council
Council worksession to review upcoming regular agenda
The City Council is holding a worksession to review and discuss the consent and regular agenda items for the upcoming regular council meeting. No specific resolutions, ordinances, or other substantive items are listed for action at this worksession.
- Discussion of Consent Agenda or Regular Agenda Items
city-councilworksessionprocedural
✓ Decided: City Council held a discussion-only work session on June 2
The City Council held a brief work session with no formal votes, approvals, or resolutions recorded. Members discussed upcoming agenda items and reviewed a new process for downtown events and street closures managed by Opelika Main Street. The Mayor also provided updates on local weekend activities.
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY OF OPELIKA
CITY COUNCIL
WORKSESSION MEETING AGENDA
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
June 2, 2026
TIME: 5:45 PM
1. A CALL TO ORDER
1. George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
2. PRESENTATIONS
3. RESOLUTIONS
4. ORDINANCES
5. GENERAL UPDATES
6. REVIEW/DISCUSS CURRENT COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
1. Discussion of Consent Agenda or Regular Agenda Items.
7. GENERAL / DISCUSSION
8. END OF WORK SESSION
“In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Opelika will make
reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. If you need special assistance to
participate in this meeting, please contact the ADA Coordinator 72 hours prior to the meeting at
(334)705-5130.”
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
June 2, 2026
TIME: 5:45 PM
1. A CALL TO ORDER
President Allen called the work session to order at 05:45 pm.
1. George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
The Mayor and all City Council members were present.
2. PRESENTATIONS
3. RESOLUTIONS
4. ORDINANCES
5. GENERAL UPDATES
Mayor Smith reminded everyone about all the events happening in Opelika on
Saturday.
6. REVIEW/DISCUSS CURRENT COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
1. Discussion of Consent Agenda or Regular Agenda Items.
Mr. Rauch asked a question about General Business item #1 on the Consent
Agenda. Mr. Motley explained the new downtown event and street closure
process now managed by Opelika Main Street.
7. GENERAL / DISCUSSION
8. END OF WORK SESSION
The work session ended at 05:55 pm.
Tue May 26, 2026 · 15:00
General
Opelika Planning Commission to consider zoning changes for alcohol and hemp uses
The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on zoning ordinance amendments and a street renaming. The body will also review plat approvals and a property annexation.
- Proposed zoning ordinance amendments regarding alcohol and hemp/CBD uses
- Proposed renaming of Joann Drive to Faith Way
- Annexation of 35,098 sf lot at 6571 Highway 431 North
- Preliminary plat for Perryman Hill Plaza Plat No. 1 SD at 3615 Birmingham Highway
- Final plat for Springs at Opelika SD at Gateway Drive & Society Hill Road
zoningannexationland-usestreet-renamingpublic-hearing
✓ Decided: Planning Commission approves final plat for Springs at Opelika subdivision
The Opelika Planning Commission approved the final plat for the Springs at Opelika subdivision, a 7-lot development on approximately 34.47 acres at Gateway Drive and Society Hill Road, with staff recommendations. The commission also sent positive recommendations to the City Council for the annexation of a 35,098 sq ft lot at 6571 Highway 431 North and for renaming Jo-Ann Drive to Faith Way. A preliminary plat for Perryman Hill Plaza could not be voted on due to a lack of quorum and will proceed through the statutory approval process. Proposed zoning ordinance amendments regarding alcohol, tobacco, and hemp uses were tabled for further review.
- Approved final plat for Springs at Opelika SD, 7 lots, with staff recommendations (5-0)
- Sent positive annexation recommendation to City Council for 35,098 sq ft lot at 6571 Highway 431 North (5-0)
- Sent positive recommendation to City Council to rename Jo-Ann Drive to Faith Way (5-0)
- Tabled zoning ordinance amendments for alcohol, tobacco, and hemp uses (5-0)
- No vote taken on Perryman Hill Plaza Plat No. 1 due to lack of quorum; plat proceeds via statutory approval
300 Martin Luther King Blvd., Opelika
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY OF OPELIKA
PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
May 26, 2026
TIME: 3:00 PM
I. WELCOME - Some items at this meeting will have a designated public hearing (noted
below). Individuals are limited to one 5-minute comment period per public hearing.
II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
III. UPDATE ON PREVIOUS CASES
IV. NEW BUSINESS
A. PLAT (Preliminary Only), Continued Item – Public Hearing
1. Perryman Hill Plaza Plat No. 1 SD, 9 lots, Jerry South, Gonzalez-Strength, Inc.,
authorized representative for Perryman Hill, LLC, property owners, 3615
Birmingham Highway, C-2, GC-P, preliminary approval. (This item continued
from the April 26th PC meeting.)
B. FINAL PLAT
2. Springs at Opelika SD, 7 lots, Gateway Drive & Society Hill Road, Blake Rice,
BSI, Inc., authorized representative for Capps Family Partnership, Ltd., property
owner, final approval.
C. ANNEXATION
3. Earnest Gunn, Jr., Armuriel Gunn Dumas, Callege Pak Gunn Holloway, property
owners, 6571 Highway 431 North (Lafayette Pkwy), 35,098 sf lot.
D. TEXT AMENDMENTS TO THE ZONING ORDINANCE – Public Hearing
4. Revision to Section 2.2 Definitions, Section 7.3. C. Use Categories (matrix table)
for alcohol and hemp/CBD uses, and Section 8.28.5 Package Liquor Store
Standards for Use - A public hearing to consider a recommendation to the City
Council on proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance.
E. STREET RENAMING - Public Hearing …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
PLANNING COMMISSION
MINUTES
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
May 26, 2026
TIME: 3:00 PM
I.
WELCOME - Some items at this meeting will have a designated public hearing (noted
below). Individuals are limited to one 5-minute comment period per public hearing.
II.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The City of Opelika Planning Commission held its regular monthly meeting May 24, 2026 in
the Meeting Chambers, located at the Opelika Municipal Court. Certified letters have been
mailed to all adjacent property owners for related issues.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Chair Lucinda Cannon, Mayor Eddie Smith, Mr. Sheldon
Whittelsey, Dr. Arturo Menefee, and Mr. John Sweatman.
MEMBERS ABSENT: Councilwoman Leigh Whatley, Mr. Ben Bugg, Mr. Tom Penton, and
Mr. Jay Walters,
STAFF PRESENT: Mr. Matt Mosley, Planning Director
Mr. Martin Ogren, Assistant Planning Director
Mrs. Rachel Dennis, Planner
Mr. Scott Parker, City Engineer
Mr. Robbie Treese, City Attorney
CALL TO ORDER: Chair Lucinda Cannon called the meeting to order at 3:00 p.m.
Chair Cannon stated the April Minutes should reflect that Chair Cannon recused herself, left the
dais and turned over control of the meeting to Sheldon Whittlesey during Item One: Perryman
Hill Plaza, Plat No. 1.
Approval of Planning Commission Minutes April 28, 2026 with conditions
RESULT:
Passed
MOVER:
Mayor Eddie Smith
SECONDER:
Sheldon Whittelsey
AYES:
Chair Cannon, Whittelsey, Menefee, Mayor Smith, Director Sweatman
NAYS …
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
Named votes as recorded in the official record.
[context] Approval of Planning Commission Minutes April 28, 2026 with conditions RESULT: Passed MOVER: Mayor Eddie Smith SECONDER: Sheldon Whittelsey
5 yea
Cannon yea · Whittelsey yea · Menefee yea · Smith yea · Sweatman yea
Motion to grant final plat approval with staff recommendations RESULT: Passed MOVER: Director John Sweatman SECONDER: Arturo Menefee
5 yea
Cannon yea · Whittelsey yea · Menefee yea · Smith yea · Sweatman yea
Motion to send a positive recommendation for annexation to City Council with staff recommendation. RESULT: Passed MOVER: Arturo Menefee SECONDER: Sheldon Whittelsey
5 yea
Cannon yea · Whittelsey yea · Menefee yea · Smith yea · Sweatman yea
ordinance update if supported by the Commission. He noted that future revisions could still occur as part of that process and that evolving federal and state regulations concerning hemp and CBD…
5 yea
Cannon yea · Whittelsey yea · Menefee yea · Smith yea · Sweatman yea
Motion to send a positive recommendation to City Council RESULT: Passed MOVER: Arturo Menefee SECONDER: Mayor Eddie Smith
5 yea
Cannon yea · Whittelsey yea · Menefee yea · Smith yea · Sweatman yea
Motion to adjourn at 3:18 p.m. RESULT: Passed MOVER: Director John Sweatman SECONDER: Arturo Menefee
5 yea
Cannon yea · Whittelsey yea · Menefee yea · Smith yea · Sweatman yea
Tue May 19, 2026 · 18:00
City Council
Council to consider property exchange with health authority, body cameras, roundabout
The Opelika City Council will hold its regular meeting with several consent agenda items and one ordinance for first reading. Key decisions include authorizing a real property exchange and lease agreement with the East Alabama Health Care Authority, purchasing police body cameras for $44,765.40, and commencing condemnation proceedings for the Cunningham Drive roundabout. The council will also apply for an ALDOT grant for Waverly Parkway Phase II and make an appointment to the Water Works Board.
- Ordinance: First reading of real property exchange and lease agreement with East Alabama Health Care Authority
- Resolution: Authorize purchase of body cameras for Opelika Police Department ($44,765.40)
- Resolution: Authorize commencement of condemnation proceedings for Cunningham Drive roundabout
- Resolution: Authorize ALDOT Transportation Alternative Program grant application for Waverly Parkway Phase II
- Appointment: Regina Meadows to the Water Works Board of Opelika (term to 2032)
city-councilpolicebudgetroadshealthappointmentsgrantspublic-safety
✓ Decided: City Council approves real‑property exchange with health‑care authority
The Opelika City Council adopted its agenda and approved a consent agenda that included a downtown street closure for First Baptist Church VBS, a purchase of OPD body cameras for $44,765.40, and an amendment to the police department's organizational chart. It also authorized an ALDOT transportation grant, began condemnation proceedings for the Cunningham Drive roundabout, appointed Regina Meadows to the Water Works Board, and granted $500 to Sportsplex Tri for Kids. Finally, the council unanimously approved Ordinance No. 021‑26 for a real‑property exchange and lease agreement with the East Alabama Health Care Authority.
- Approved downtown street closure for First Baptist Church VBS (unanimous)
- Approved purchase of OPD body cameras ($44,765.40) (unanimous)
- Approved amendment to Opelika Police Department organizational chart (unanimous)
- Authorized ALDOT Transportation Alternative Program grant for Waverly Parkway Phase II (unanimous)
- Authorized condemnation proceedings for Cunningham Drive roundabout (unanimous)
- Appointed Regina Meadows to Water Works Board (term expires 05-04-2032) (unanimous)
- Approved special appropriation $500 to Sportsplex Tri for Kids (unanimous)
- Approved Ordinance No. 021-26 – Real Property Exchange and Lease Agreement with East Alabama Health Care Authority (unanimous)
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY OF OPELIKA
CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
May 19, 2026
TIME: 6:00 PM
1. A CALL TO ORDER
2. ROLL CALL
1. George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
3. INVOCATION
1. Anne Nicholson from Open Heavens Ministry.
4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
1. Avery Massey and Freddy Torres Morales from Opelika High School.
5. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA
1. Motion to Adopt the CM Agenda for 05-19-26.
6. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING(S)
1. Minutes from the 05-05-26 council meeting.
7. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
8. MAYOR COMMENTS AND RECOGNITIONS
1. City's Financial Summary Report for April 2026.
2. April 2026 Monthly Building Summary Report.
3. Recognize Killgore Scholarship Recipients.
4. Recognize Opelika Middle School Percussion Program Students.
5. Recognize Character Council Citizen of Excellent Character.
9. PUBLIC HEARINGS (Limit comments to 3 minutes or less)
10. AGENDA-RELATED PUBLIC COMMENTS (Limit comments to 3 minutes or less)
11. CONSENT AGENDA
1. General Business: Request Downtown Street Closure - First Baptist Church
Opelika Vacation Bible School from 06-01-26 to 06-04-26.
2. Resolution: Expense Reports from Various Departments.
3. Resolution: Purchase - Body Cameras - OPD ($44,765.40).
4. Resolution: Amend the Organizational Chart of the Opelika Police Department -
HR.
5. Resolution: Annual MWPP Reports for East and West Sewe …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
May 19, 2026
TIME: 6:00 PM
1. A CALL TO ORDER
President Allen called the council meeting to order at 06:00 pm and asked Mr.
Jones to call the roll.
2. ROLL CALL
Mayor Smith, President Allen, Ms. Holmes, Ms. Whatley, and Mr. Rauch were
present. Mr. Beams was absent.
1. George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
3. INVOCATION
Ms. Nicholson provided the invocation.
1. Anne Nicholson from Open Heavens Ministry.
4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Avery led the Pledge of Allegiance.
1. Avery Massey and Freddy Torres Morales from Opelika High School.
5. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA
1. Motion to Adopt the CM Agenda for 05-19-26.
MOTION TO ADOPT THE AGENDA: UNANIMOUS
RESULT: Passed
MOVER: Councilwoman Ward 2 Janataka Hughley-Holmes
SECONDER: Councilwoman Ward 3 Leigh Whatley
AYES: Councilman Ward 1 - President Allen, Councilwoman Ward 2
Hughley-Holmes, Councilwoman Ward 3 Whatley, Councilman
Ward 5 Rauch
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
6. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING(S)
1. Minutes from the 05-05-26 council meeting.
President Allen stated that a copy of the minutes had been previously received by
the council and asked for a motion to approve the minutes. Mr. Rauch made a
motion to approve. Ms. Holmes seconded the motion. President Allen then asked
if there were any additions, deletions, or corrections to the minutes. Presi …
Tue May 19, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
Council considers real property exchange with East Alabama Health Care Authority
The City Council will hold a work session to discuss agenda items. The primary item for consideration is a first reading of a real property exchange and lease agreement.
- First reading of Real Property Exchange and Lease Agreement with The East Alabama Health Care Authority
real-estatehealthcareleasingcity-council
✓ Decided: City Council work session concluded without any recorded decisions
The May 19, 2026 work session included a presentation on a real‑property exchange with the East Alabama Health Care Authority, but no vote or formal action was recorded. The council discussed the consent agenda and the mayor provided a brief update. The session ended at 5:43 p.m. with no substantive approvals, denials, or tablings noted.
300 Martin Luther King Blvd, Opelika
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY OF OPELIKA
CITY COUNCIL
WORKSESSION MEETING AGENDA
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
May 19, 2026
TIME: 5:30 PM
1. A CALL TO ORDER
1. George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
2. PRESENTATIONS
3. RESOLUTIONS
4. ORDINANCES
1. Approve Real Property Exchange and Lease Agreement with The East Alabama
Health Care Authority - 1st Reading.
5. GENERAL UPDATES
6. REVIEW/DISCUSS CURRENT COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
1. Discussion of Consent Agenda or Regular Agenda Items.
7. GENERAL / DISCUSSION
8. END OF WORK SESSION
“In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Opelika will make
reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. If you need special assistance to
participate in this meeting, please contact the ADA Coordinator 72 hours prior to the meeting at
(334)705-5130.”
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
May 19, 2026
TIME: 5:30 PM
1. A CALL TO ORDER
President Allen called the work session to order at 05:31 pm.
1. George Allen, Janataka Hughley-Holmes, Leigh Whatley, Chuck Beams,
Todd Rauch
Mayor Smith, President Allen, Ms. Holmes, Ms. Whatley, and Mr. Rauch
(arrived at 5:41 pm) were present. Mr. Beams was absent.
2. PRESENTATIONS
3. RESOLUTIONS
4. ORDINANCES
1. Approve Real Property Exchange and Lease Agreement with The East Alabama
Health Care Authority - 1st Reading.
Opelika Fire Chief Shane Boyd explained the exchange and agreement, and then
asked the council to consider suspension of the rules and passage so that the city
could begin the bid process for building the new fire station.
5. GENERAL UPDATES
Mayor Smith spoke about his upcoming Mayor's Remarks on the council agenda.
6. REVIEW/DISCUSS CURRENT COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
1. Discussion of Consent Agenda or Regular Agenda Items.
Mr. Treese explained Consent Agenda Resolution #8 in greater detail.
7. GENERAL / DISCUSSION
8. END OF WORK SESSION
The work session ended at 05:43 pm.
Thu May 14, 2026 · 16:30
General
Historic Preservation Commission considers four facade and porch changes
The Opelika Historic Preservation Commission will meet to approve minutes and consider four Certificates of Appropriateness for exterior changes in the Northside and Downtown Historic Districts.
- Approve March 12, 2026 minutes
- 405 N. 9th St: Expand Rear Screen Porch
- 1008 3rd Ave: Rear Addition
- 501 N. 8th St: Replacement of Windows
- 116 S. 8th St: Facade Renovation
historic-preservationzoningarchitecturedowntownhistoric-districts
✓ Decided: Commission approved four historic preservation projects, including porch and addition
The commission unanimously adopted the March 12, 2026 minutes. It approved a larger rear screen porch at 405 N. 9th St, a rear addition at 1008 3rd Ave, and window replacements at 501 N. 8th St. No decision was recorded for the façade renovation at 116 S. 8th St.
- Approved March 12, 2026 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved expansion of rear screen porch at 405 N. 9th St (unanimous)
- Approved rear 8’ x 16’ addition at 1008 3rd Ave (unanimous)
- Approved replacement of 13 windows at 501 N. 8th St (unanimous)
300 MLK Boulevard, Opelika
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY OF OPELIKA
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
May 14, 2026
TIME: 4:30 PM
1. A CALL TO ORDER
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. Approve March 12, 2026 minutes
3. PUBLIC HEARINGS (Limit comments to 3 minutes or less)
4. OLD BUSINESS
5. NEW BUSINESS
2. 405 N. 9th St: Northside Historic District
COA: Expand Rear Screen Porch
Applicant: Davina Casey
3. 1008 3rd Ave: Northside Historic District
COA: Rear Addition
Applicant: Warren & Tonya Stiles
4. 501 N. 8th St: Northside Historic District
COA: Replacement of Windows
Applicant: JaneAnn & Ed Fleming
5. 116 S. 8th St: Downtown Historic District
COA: Facade Renovation
Applicant: Lindsay Fukai
6. OTHER BUSINESS
6. Enforcement Report
7. Staff Report
8. Next meeting DATE
1. Next meeting June 11, 2026
7. ADJOURN
“In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Opelika will make
reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. If you need special assistance to
participate in this meeting, please contact the ADA Coordinator 72 hours prior to the meeting at
(334)705-5130.”
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
MINUTES
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
May 14, 2026
TIME: 4:30 PM
1.
A CALL TO ORDER
Rush Denson called the meeting to order at 4:30 p.m.
2.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1.
Approve March 12, 2026 minutes
A motion was made by Debbie Purves to approve the March 12, 2026 minutes.
The motion was seconded by Aaron Bushey. All approved.
3.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
(Limit comments to 3 minutes or less)
Rush Denson opened the floor for public comments. There were none.
4.
OLD BUSINESS
There was no old business to discuss.
5.
NEW BUSINESS
2.
405 N. 9th St: Northside Historic District
COA: Expand Rear Screen Porch
Applicant: Davina Casey
Agenda Item #: 1
Meeting Date: 05/14/2026
Action Requested: COA: Expand Rear Screen Porch
Location of Property: 405 N. 9th St; Northside Historic District
Petitioner: Davina Casey
Resources:
C.1890. One and a half story, wood frame Victorian cottage with hip
with cross gable roof of asphalt shingles, interior brick chimneys,
decorative gables, off centered wood door, flanking double hung sash
windows, partial width porch with hip roof, double colonnettes on brick
bases, open rail balustrade, weatherboard siding. Contributing
Resource.
Proposal: The petitioner requests a COA for the following:
1. Remove current 6’ x 20’ rear screen porch and rebuild a14’ x 20’
screen porch. The new porch will have a poured concre …
Tue May 12, 2026 · 09:00
General
Opelika Zoning Board of Adjustment meeting canceled
The regular meeting scheduled for May 12, 2026, has been canceled. The cancellation is due to a lack of applications.
zoningprocedural
300 Martin Luther King Blvd., Opelika
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY OF OPELIKA
ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
300 Martin Luther King Blvd.
May 12, 2026
TIME: 9:00 AM
1. Notice of Cancellation
1. The regular Board of Zoning Adjustment meeting scheduled for May 12, 2026
has been canceled due to lack of applications.
“In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Opelika will make
reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. If you need special assistance to
participate in this meeting, please contact the ADA Coordinator 72 hours prior to the meeting at
(334)705-5130.”
Showing the 30 most recent meetings of 65 on record. See the yearly meeting archives below for the full history.
💰 Federal awards (top 10 by amount)
Largest recent federal contract/grant awards to recipients in this city (2023–present), via USAspending.gov.
| $1.0M | TABB TEXTILES CO INC Department of Justice · CLOTH NEEDED FOR ORDERS AT OUR OAKDALE UNICOR |
| $922,248 | TABB TEXTILES CO INC Department of Justice · POLY FABRIC |
| $780,950 | ALLIGARE, LLC Department of the Interior · WIP MAGNACIDE H - 2023 |
| $757,200 | TABB TEXTILES CO INC Department of Justice · FABRIC NEEDED FOR OUR OAKDALE UNICOR |
| $701,775 | TABB TEXTILES CO INC Department of Justice · POLY FABRIC |
| $691,880 | ALLIGARE, LLC Department of the Interior · BIA WAPATO IRRIGATION PROJECT AQUATIC HERBICIDE 2022 |
| $626,360 | TABB TEXTILES CO INC Department of Justice · FABRIC FOR INMATE CLOTHING PROGRAM AT UNICOR OAKDALE |
| $459,115 | TABB TEXTILES CO INC Department of Justice · POLY FABRIC |
| $458,582 | SOUTHEAST APOTHECARY OPELIKA, INC. Department of Defense · UNIT DOSE RADIOPHARMACEUTICALS |
| $435,562 | ALLIGARE, LLC Department of the Interior · MAGNACIDE H AQUATIC HERBICIDE (ACROLEIN, STABILIZED) FOR BUREAU OF IND |
Source: USAspending.gov (U.S. Treasury) — federal awards only, not city budgets.
🌐 County-level context (Lee County)
County-level context — from BLS, IRS, FEMA, HUD, Census. These figures cover the whole county this city sits in, not just the city itself.
Net migration+463 people (+$73.0M net AGI · 2023)
Federal disasters (10 yr)6 ({"Hurricane": 8, "Severe Storm": 7, "Tornado": 2, "Biologica · last Thu Sep 26, 2024)
Traffic fatalities8 (1 pedestrian · 2024)
Business establishments3,377 (51,454 employees · 2023)
Fair Market Rent (2BR)$1,168/mo (949 assisted households · 2025)
Adults with low literacy19.8% (low numeracy 32% · 2017)
Sources: BLS LAUS, IRS SOI, FEMA, NHTSA FARS, Census CBP, HUD, NCES PIAAC
City profile
Everything below is drawn from this city’s own public record and primary-source government data. AI-written summaries are a finding aid, not a citable quote.
568
Permitted housing units
The money — in
source: Census gov-finance & state comptrollerBudget
Revenue$179.1M
Spending$154.0M
Revenue ran ahead of operating spending this year.
Debt load MODERATE
Outstanding debt$187.3M
Debt-to-revenue1.05×
Debt-load index54 / 100
A debt-load indicator (national percentile of debt, deficit & aid-reliance) — not a solvency verdict. Cross-checked against official state fiscal-stress scores where they exist.
Outcomes — economic mobility
source: Opportunity Atlas (Harvard) · research useFor kids who grew up here in low-income households, their adult household-income rank (0–1). The average hides a gap by race:
Research-only layer, shown here for context — not included in the CC BY 4.0 bulk download.
Where it’s happening
geocoded land-use decisions🗺 Interactive map
Every rezoning, development approval, and permit — explore the geocoded records in the
research explorer.
Meeting archives
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