The Selma Times-Journal

Foundation work for a new fire department in Valley Grande’s Overlook Hills area is underway.

According to city officials, Overlook Hills is currently “not covered” by any fire station. The construction site is located on Alabama Highway 22, roughly two miles west of the current fire department, which is located at 8577 Highway 22.

According to Councilwoman Donna Downs, the station will service areas within a five-mile radius.

Speaking of the fire department, Mayor Tom Lee commended Valley Grande Volunteer Fire Department Chief Don Carter and his staff at Monday’s council meeting on their response times at two recent fires – one at Quail Run a week and a half ago and a previous fire “on the other side of town.”

“Y’alls response time was absolutely unreal,” Lee said.

Lee reported that he had received several comments and compliments regarding the volunteer firefighters’ seven-minute response time.

“The most dangerous job in Valley Grande is being a volunteer fire person,” Lee said.

Firefighters are needed to man the new fire station.

Anyone interested can contact Don Carter at 875-1580.

Lee went on to give a financial recap of the 2005-2006 fiscal year.

“We actually collected $452,334.69 against an anticipated $355,500,” Lee said.

Lee reported $85,000 in donations and a $134,622.55 positive cash flow for the year.

“This is a true picture for cash in, cash out,” Lee said.

Reporting for the Public Safety Advisory Group, Councilman Donald Chandler announced a second Neighborhood Watch meeting has been scheduled for Roundtree Drive, Edwards Drive, Lee Circle, and Grandview Circle on Thursday, Oct. 19 at 7 p.m. at the City Hall building.

Chandler was confident that no Auburn football games have been scheduled for that night and is hopeful that the residents will participate.

“I hope we have a good turnout this time,” Chandler said.

In an unrelated matter, Lee read a letter from the local American Red Cross requesting the council’s financial assistance.

“We’ll have a planning session and discuss, because this certainly has merit,” Lee said.

Reporting for the Beautification Advisory Group, Councilwoman Patsy Moore said, “We’re still working on the property.”

Moore said some of the committee members are researching other trails in an effort to decide “just how we want it,” and the outline of the trail will be their next project.

Stopping by the council meeting was Yusuf Salaam, Representative District 67.

Salaam commended the council on their efforts and asked for their support in the upcoming election.

“I’m hoping that Valley Grande sees the wisdom of trying to bring this county together,” Salaam said.

“We appreciate your support and what you’ve done for us in the past,” Lee said.