By Marla Jones

Managing Editor

marla@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, Ala.-- At the Fort Payne City Council meeting, on August 3, Mayor Brian Baine announced that Hwy 55 Burgers, Shakes, and Fries would open a new location in the former DeKalb Tourism Center.

"It's exciting to welcome Hwy 55 to Fort Payne, they are a 50's style diner-type restaurant" stated Mayor Baine. "I will be glad to see the construction get started in the coming months." 

The former Tourism Center encountered problems with flooding but according to Fort Payne Councilmember John M. Smith, the new owners will elevate the site before they build.  When the elevation is tapered, and with the proper drainage systems, it will aid in diverting the water flow from Airport Road towards Wills Creek. 

In other business, the Council:

Passed Resolution 2021-26 that amended a previous resolution that granted tax abatements to Plasman.  This is a name change only, with no additional abatements. 

Tabled a request for bids for decorative lights. 

Discussed the hiring of a local architect firm for the concession building and proposed new soccer fields. 

Accepted a land donation by Paul Young

Granted approval for lawyers to negotiate the recent settlement of the “Opioid Suit” which refunds first responders across the nation due to the opioid crisis. 

John Dersham gave the Council an update on the activities of the DeKalb County Tourist Association.  Dersham went on to state that despite the covid pandemic last year, Fort Payne steadily had visitors to the area, due to so many outdoor activities nearby. 

The next meeting of the Fort Payne Council will be held on August 17, beginning at 12:30 p.m.