Huntsville’s city council ratified rate increases for electricity and trash pickup this week. Most users will see an increase $10.50 per month starting in January. AL.com reports councilors also approved three fee increases for trash pickup customers – one more than the city’s Public Works department proposed Oct. 10. It’s part of an effort to get the service to reach financial self-sufficiency. The fee for single-family and multi-family residences will rise to $21.50 per month in January and $24.50 in 2027, then to $27.50 in 2029.
The Alabama Forestry Commission issued a fire danger advisory this week for 22 counties as portions of the state are expected to continue to experience drought conditions. Counties in North Alabama include Limestone, Jackson; and Madison. AL.com reports the advisory will be in effect “immediately until significant rainfall is received.
The Alabama Department of Transportation will hold a public workshop about the Statewide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Department of Transportation office located at 1525 Perimeter Parkway in Huntsville. The purpose of the plan is to establish a vision for bicycling and walking as modes of transportation in Alabama and to help maximize limited available funding. The workshop will be conducted as an “open house.” There is no formal presentation and attendees can arrive at any time within the two-hour period. Community members are invited to review information, ask questions, and provide comments.
Huntsville city officials broke ground this week on a recreation center at John Hunt Park. It will include four full-size gyms with basketball courts that can be configured into as many as eight volleyball courts. The main building will house a fitness room and multipurpose activity rooms. Mayor Tommy Battle says the centerpiece will be 25 covered pickleball courts – the city’s largest investment in public infrastructure so far for the fast-growing sport. WAFF TV reports construction is expected to finish in December 2025.
Huntsville Animal Services is declaring a state of emergency. A Facebook post from the shelter says that they have been operating at maximum capacity for several months, and have now reached a critical point where the welfare of the animals is at risk. To help to reduce the number of dogs in the shelter they are waiving adoption fees for all dogs over six months old, and puppies will be available for just $10. This emergency promotion began October 25th and will run through Monday afternoon. More information is at www.huntsvilleal.gov/animal.
Alabama Habitat for Humanity affiliates, and Habitat ReStores across the state are collecting supplies for families in Western North Carolina devastated by Hurricane Helene. Items needed include new and unused warm clothing such as hoodies, jackets, socks, and gloves. They are also collecting personal hygiene items, non-perishable food and kerosene and propane heaters. They will be accepting donations through Friday, November 8 at the River Valley ReStore at 400 Pratt Ave. in Huntsville and at Habitat for Humanity of Morgan County 1123 Central Pkwy in Decatur.
On Sunday, AshaKiran will host its annual Human Chain Against Domestic Violence. Community members are invited to stand united against domestic violence. The event will take place at the Gazebo at Big Spring Park from 2 – 3 PM. AshaKiran will honor law enforcement officers, the first responders who are often the first line of defense for survivors of domestic violence.