News Flash

The City of Athens responded to a couple of media requests inquiring about the advertisement of a Zoning Ordinance amendment related to data centers. One media outlet misunderstood the information provided, which has led to some confusion as to the intent of the amendment.

The City is proposing an amendment to its Zoning Ordinance to address data centers because not doing so leads to legal uncertainty. 

The City of Athens has not received a request related to a data center, but the City of Athens saw a growing trend that communities across the U.S. are dealing with regarding proposed data centers, and many of those communities, including Athens, had Zoning Ordinances that did not address them.

The City proposes addressing data centers as a conditional use in the manufacturing/heavy industrial zone, meaning they are not automatically allowed in that zone but would have to make a request to locate in that zone. Conditional use provides an additional level of scrutiny and the ability to apply conditions of use, restricts the location and does not offer a guarantee of approval. 

Amendments to the Zoning Ordinance are advertised publicly. They start with the Planning Commission where there is a public hearing, and then the Planning Commission sends it to City Council with or without a recommendation. They go to the City Council for another public hearing and final action.

The proposed amendment to address data centers is scheduled to appear on the City Council’s agenda on April 27. 

Athens is joining communities across the nation in celebrating America’s 250^th birthday.

The Alabama USA Semiquincentennial Commission and American Village named Athens one of the state’s America 250 cities. 

“America 250 Alabama is more than just a celebration - it’s a chance to reflect on our past and share how Alabama’s history helped shape the nation,” said Natalie Steed, Executive Officer of the Alabama USA Semiquincentennial Commission. “We are excited to work with local committees across the state. I’m proud to see Athens taking the lead in planning meaningful events to mark this historic occasion.” 

The local 250th committee is leading the community's planning and programming in celebration of the nation’s Semiquincentennial. Community leaders, educators, veterans, historians and civic volunteers comprise the Athens-America250AL committee. 

“The committee’s goal is to facilitate a coordinated effort to celebrate and educate,” said Committee Co-Chair Holly Hollman. “Our history is America’s history and a part of America’s 250^th celebration. We will work in conjunction with State of Alabama initiatives to promote events and programs not only for our citizens, but also tourists who visit our city.”

Athens-Limestone Tourism Association will serve as the communication hub for activities and programs. Any local entity that has a 250^th celebration planned will submit information to Tourism for inclusion on a designated 250^th celebration page on its website. To submit a 250th event to Tourism, use this link: Google Form

Committee Co-Chair Pammie Jimmar, who is Athens-Limestone County Chamber/Tourism President and CEO, said she is incredibly honored Athens is one of the America250Alabama Semiquincentennial Cities. 

“This recognition is not just about marking 250 years of our nation’s history,” Jimmar said. “It’s also about celebrating the generations of citizens whose vision, sacrifice and determination built the community we are blessed to call home.”

Jimmar said Athens has “always been a place where heritage and hope walk hand in hand.”

“Our local celebrations are an opportunity to reflect on where we’ve been, celebrate who we are today and boldly step into the future together,” she said.

The committee is working with the Sons of the American Revolution on a possible monument in the historic Athens City Cemetery near the burial place of John Wade Keyes, recognized by the State of Alabama as the state's first veteran. Extensive research indicates Keyes was the only person who had an association with Alabama who enlisted in the first 10 rifle companies of the Continental Army created June 1775. 

Records indicate Keyes enlisted in the Continental Army almost 13 months prior to the issuance of the Declaration of Independence.

A 2023 State of Alabama proclamation reads, “A recent assessment of other Revolutionary War veterans indicated that no other Continental Army veteran with an association to Alabama had prior service. Be it resolved by the legislature of Alabama, both houses thereof concurring, that John Wade Keyes of Limestone County is highly honored and recognized as Alabama’s first veteran of the armed forces of the United States of America.” 

The committee is also working with Tourism on the July 3-4 Red, White and Boom celebration, which will be a local 250^th celebration on Independence Day weekend. 

“By partnering with the City, County and Athens Arts League, we are bringing a high-energy, community-wide celebration for families, businesses and neighbors who can enjoy a patriotic party in unity and with pride,” Jimmar said. “This is more than an event. It is a symbol of the spirit that defines Athens: resilient, patriotic, forward-moving and strong.”

Red, White and Boom activities include:

• April to May – Athens Arts League will accept submissions for the July 3 – Athens Arts League and Tourism will host Art After Hours from 7-9 p.m. on Marion Street on The Square with JED-Eye performing rock classics and more. The Rocket City Starlets will participate, and there will be an art station where children can make a patriotic craft. Volunteers will distribute American flags and pocket size copies of the Constitution while supplies last.
• July 4 – Tourism will host the inaugural Red, White and Boom 5K and the traditional Red, White and Boom Festival at the Sportsplex with live music, games, food trucks, art winners, vendors and fireworks.

The celebration will not end with these weekend festivities. Athens State University plans to host a 250^th program on July 7 at 2 p.m. called “John Adams: Architect of our Democracy.” Brian “Fox” Ellis, an internationally acclaimed author, storyteller, historian, and naturalist, will present the program. You can read more about him and the John Adams program here: https://ilhumanities.org/speakers/brian-fox-ellis. 

More 250^th activities will be announced as they are submitted to Tourism.

“The best chapters of our story are still ahead, and I’m excited to celebrate this milestone with a community that continues to lead with heart,” Jimmar said. 

About America250AL

The Alabama USA Semiquincentennial Commission (America250AL) is Alabama’s official commission to lead the state’s planning for the United States Semiquincentennial in 2026. Learn more at www.america250al.org.

Monday, March 23, marked the official launch of the Opportunity Council Districts Program, an incentive-based initiative designed to encourage small business growth within retail-stagnant areas of designated city council districts. 

“Small businesses are and have always been the heartbeat of our city,” said Mayor Ronnie Marks. “By strengthening them we are also strengthening our city, one district at a time. There is no question, when our small businesses succeed, Athens succeeds.”

Backed by a $200,000 allocation from the Athens City Council, this program represents a direct investment in the equitable economic development of our community.

On February 23, 2026, the Athens City Council unanimously adopted Resolution #2026-2141, recognizing that while many sectors of the city has seen commercial growth, certain underutilized corridors require targeted support to realize their full potential.

By empowering locally-owned businesses to uplift their properties, the city's goal is to enhance overall business viability and spark future investment in these static retail areas.

The program focuses exclusively on funding one-time, permanent physical improvements to commercial properties. Eligible small businesses can apply for incentive awards of up to $20,000 per project. The total program allocation is divided equally, providing $100,000 for District 3 and $100,000 for District 5.

To stimulate long-term economic development, the incentive funds can be utilized for transformative property upgrades. 

Eligible exterior and interior improvements include; façade renovations, exterior painting, storefront window/door replacements, signage upgrades, architectural lighting, exterior landscaping tied directly to business frontage, ADA accessibility improvements and parking area enhancements. Code-required upgrades, permanent interior build-outs tied to business expansion, and electrical, plumbing, or HVAC upgrades related to long-term functionality are also eligible for funding.

All applicants must be locally owned, non-professional small businesses physically located within District 3 or District 5.

With the program officially launching today, eligible small business owners are encouraged to begin the application process as soon as possible. Because this is a competitive grant process where applications will be evaluated on merit and suitability, early submissions are highly encouraged. The final deadline for all submissions is June 15, 2026.

Applications can be found online by visiting the official City of Athens Opportunity Council Districts Small Business Physical Improvement Incentive Program website to download, fill out, and print the application packet. To reach the page just hover over the 'Business' tab at the top of the homepage and click 'Opportunity Council Districts Small Business Incentive Program.' 

https://www.athensalabama.us/539/Opportunity-Council-Districts-Small-Busi

Physical copies of the official application form and guidelines can be picked up at Athens City Hall, located at 200 W. Hobbs Street, by following the posted signage to the appropriate office. All applications can be submitted at the same office. 

At the Monday, March 9th City Council meeting, Athens City Council members approved adjustments to water and wastewater rates as part of the City’s ongoing efforts to support growth and ensure long-term infrastructure reliability.

As Athens experiences continued growth, city officials emphasized that these changes are necessary to keep pace with population growth, meet regulatory requirements, and invest in critical infrastructure upgrades that will benefit the community for years to come.

Residents are encouraged to review the full details of the updated rates, including a comprehensive Summary of Utilities Rates & Fees and the specific Ordinance of the Water and Sewer Rate Adjustments, by visiting the Water and Wastewater Department page at the links below:

https://www.athensalabama.us/359/Water-Sewer-Department

Current Rates and Fees

The Athens Police Department has identified and removed a card skimming device from a local commercial property. The unlawful device was capable of capturing customer debit and credit card information without authorization.

The Department has worked closely with the targeted business and the possibly affected customers, but also wants to warn others about the massive scope of potential credit and debit card scams.

Understanding Credit/Debit Card Skimming

Credit/Debit card skimming devices are concealed tools installed on legitimate card readers at retail locations, ATMs, and fuel pumps. These devices are designed to capture card data during routine transactions. In some cases, criminals may also use:

• Bluetooth-enabled skimmers that transmit stolen data wirelessly.

• Internal “shimmer” devices placed inside chip readers to intercept card information.

• Hidden cameras or keypad overlays to capture card information and Personal Identification Numbers (PINs).

These devices can often be difficult to detect and may closely resemble legitimate equipment. Therefore, be cautious of any suspicious-looking equipment that may have been tampered with when using your credit/debit card to pay.

Additional Scam Tactics

In addition to physical skimming devices, individuals should be aware of other common credit and debit card fraud schemes, including:

• Phishing emails or text messages requesting account information.

• Fraudulent phone calls impersonating financial institutions.

• Requests for personal or financial information under false pretenses.

Scammers frequently attempt to create a sense of urgency to pressure victims into disclosing sensitive financial information. Always be skeptical of calls, texts, or emails requesting your financial information.

Consumer Safety Recommendations

• Inspect card readers before use and avoid machines that appear damaged, loose, or altered.

• Shield the keypad when entering your PIN.

• Monitor bank and credit card statements regularly for unauthorized transactions.

• Enroll in account alert notifications through your financial institution.

• Be skeptical of unsolicited communications requesting personal or financial information.

Reporting Suspicious Activity

Individuals who observe suspicious devices on payment terminals should notify the business operator immediately and contact the Athens Police Department via the non-emergency number: 256-233-8700.

If unauthorized transactions are identified, please contact your bank or credit card provider immediately.

The Athens Police Department is committed to safeguarding the physical and financial security of our residents and visitors. 

“Financial crimes can affect anyone, and criminals continue to develop new technology and new methods to exploit their victims,” said Athens Police Chief Anthony Pressnell. “Community awareness and prompt reporting are essential in helping us identify these threats quickly so we can help keep Athens safe.”

ORIGINAL POST

After conducting surveys of the area, the City, with the assistance of Communities Unlimited, submitted a pre-application to ADEM for the estimated $16-million-plus project to address drainage and gravity sewer in the areas of West and East Strain roads. This was submitted in May 2024.

As of December 2024, ADEM has verbally committed ARPA funding for preliminary design work, and the Athens City Council has approved an agreement with Krebs Engineering for preliminary engineering services.

ADEM has reported the City should hear in January 2025 about whether it is approved to proceed with a full application for the project.

Here is an overview of the proposed project and phases:

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PROJECT UPDATE - MAY 23, 2025

The Alabama Department of Environmental Management notified the City of Athens its pre-application for funding to address drainage and sewer issues on West and East Strain roads is finally approved for funding.

Communities Unlimited submitted the pre-application last year on May 30, 2024. Communities Unlimited partners with EPA and was referred to the City of Athens by EPA. 

District 3 Councilman James Lucas said he is eager to start the project. Lucas helped conduct surveys in late 2023 to gage the interest from residents in changing from septic tanks to sanitary sewer and to gather information about drainage issues.

Like other older areas of Athens, portions of West and East Strain roads developed prior to city ordinances related to street width, drainage and requiring access to city sewer, if available. 

ADEM sent notification to Mayor Ronnie Marks that the City of Athens will have access to $3,893,773 from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and that it will be principal forgiveness and treated like a grant. ADEM sent a second notification that said the City of Athens will have access to $500,000 also from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund, from its regular annual funding. This will be principal forgiveness and treated like a grant.

At its May 19 meeting, the Athens City Council authorized Marks to sign ADEM agreements for the funding.

In addition, ADEM has allocated $123,844.62 in APRA money to fund survey and design work. The total amount of ADEM funding will be $4,517,617.62. 

The City of Athens will be responsible for remaining costs. 

•  Drainage work is estimated to cost nearly $2.5 million.
• Sanitary sewer work is estimated to cost over $8.5 million. Repaving of streets is built into this plan.

Estimates could change if survey and design work find unknown issues. Surveying work will start the week of May 26, and residents will see surveyors on both sides of Strain Road.

City crews from Public Works have opted to do some of the drainage work in-house to lower the cost from preliminary engineering estimates of up to $16 million.

Drainage improvements include culvert replacements. Sanitary sewer improvements include a pump station, force main and gravity sewer to provide sewer connections to residents in the West and East Strain roads area.

Survey Work Starting Week of June 9

Morell Engineering will start survey work the week of June 9 for the preliminary portion of the Strain Road Community Improvements Project – Phase 1.

This survey will support the development of the official design and preparation of the easement and property descriptions for the City. 

PROJECT UPDATE AUG. 20, 2025

Working with utilities on utility pole relocations and marking water, gas, other utility lines. 

Working to get legal descriptions of easements needed to address drainage. 

Creating a plan for traffic access at dead end areas that will be impacted by culvert replacements. 

Expect to advertise for bids on Phase 1 in November. 

PROJECT UPDATE NOV. 4, 2025

As part of ADEM's requirement for funding assistance, a public hearing was held on Nov. 4, 2025, at Athens City Hall.

PROJECT UPDATE APRIL 1, 2026

The City is negotiating with landowners on easements and property needed for the drainage portion. The project design for Phase 1 is at 90 percent completion.