City News

Leeds Splash Pad Officially Opens for 2025 Season

The City of Leeds celebrated the official grand opening of the Leeds Splash Pad for the 2025 season on Saturday, May 24. Mayor David Miller, alongside the Splash Pad staff, kicked off the festivities and welcomed residents to enjoy this much-anticipated summertime destination.

Located at 804 Park Drive, the Splash Pad was renovated over the summer with all new water features. This is a free, fun-filled outdoor attraction open exclusively to residents of the City of Leeds. With colorful water features and a safe play environment, it’s the perfect spot to beat the heat all summer long.

The Splash Pad will open for public use beginning:

Sunday, May 25 at 1:00 PM
Monday, May 26 (Memorial Day) at 10:00 AM

Regular operating hours (weather permitting) are:

Tuesday through Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Closed on Mondays for maintenance, except on Memorial Day.

As a reminder, admission is free, but access is limited to Leeds residents only. To ensure entry, please bring proof of residency:

A driver’s license with a Leeds address, or
A driver’s license AND a current utility bill (Water Works, Power, Spire, etc.) showing the same name and a Leeds address.

Babysitters accompanying children who live in Leeds must bring:

A copy of the parent’s driver’s license, and
A matching utility bill showing a Leeds address.

Also, children who are not potty trained must wear swim diapers to help maintain water quality and safety for all.

The City of Leeds invites all eligible families to enjoy a safe and refreshing summer at the Splash Pad!

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City of Leeds is Turning 138 Years Old!!

The City of Leeds is celebrating its 138th birthday and the Leeds Historical Society is hosting a celebratory event. We hope you will be able to attend. Here are the details:

Leeds Historical Society Invites Public to Celebrate 138th Birthday of the City of Leeds

The Leeds Historical Society is pleased to invite the community to a special celebration marking the 138th anniversary of the incorporation of the City of Leeds, which officially became a town on April 27, 1887.

The event will take place on Sunday, April 27, 2025, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM at the Leeds Historical Society Museum, located at the J.W. Bass House, 1129 Montevallo Road, Leeds, AL 35094.

This family-friendly celebration will honor the city’s rich heritage and the generations of citizens who have shaped its story. Guests will enjoy:

Guided tours of the Bass House Museum
Special displays highlighting Leeds history
A brief program recognizing community partners and supporters
Light refreshments on the grounds

The celebration also provides an opportunity to thank the City of Leeds for their recent support in upgrading the museum’s infrastructure, including the replacement of the HVAC system — a key improvement in preserving the city's treasured history.

“We’re proud to celebrate Leeds’ past while continuing to preserve its legacy for future generations,” said Randy Ray, President of the Leeds Historical Society. “This is a great chance for residents and visitors alike to connect with the stories that make Leeds a unique and vibrant place.”

The Leeds Historical Society encourages everyone to stop by, bring a friend, and help honor 138 years of community, progress, and pride.

For more information, please contact:
Randy Ray
President, Leeds Historical Society

Leeds Historical Society

Preserving the Cornerstones of our Past

Phone 205-571-1812

Facebook Page: Leeds Historical Society

Website: Leeds Historical Society

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City of Leeds to Begin Installation of New Traffic Signal at Exit 140

Leeds, AL – Building on the momentum of recent infrastructure improvements, the City of Leeds is pleased to announce the launch of a new traffic signal installation project at Exit 140. The new signal will be installed at the end of the I-20 East off-ramp and is designed to significantly improve traffic flow and safety for drivers turning west onto Highway 78 toward The Shops.

This new project follows the successful completion of a full LED lighting upgrade at Exit 140, where all lights have been replaced with modern, energy-efficient fixtures—greatly enhancing nighttime visibility and safety. Together, these improvements reflect the City’s proactive approach to infrastructure development and traffic management.

The intersection at Exit 140 has long been a concern for both residents and visitors due to high traffic volume and the lack of a functioning signal. Leeds Mayor David Miller emphasized the importance of this upcoming project:

“That’s been a trouble spot for quite a while. As you come off of the interstate going east and head toward the outlet mall or Buc-ee’s, you basically take your life in your hands trying to meet one car at a time across that intersection. There were no lights—it was a bad arrangement. Just to let you know, we now have approved funding and we’ll be starting quickly on the new traffic arrangement. This will include a computerized light that makes it a lot easier for us to get a lot of cars across there without people stacking up.”

This signal will not only improve safety, but also enhance access to key destinations such as The Shops at Grand River, a vital retail and economic driver in the area. The City also welcomes continued collaboration with stakeholders from The Shops as this project moves forward.

“We’re excited to see this much-needed traffic signal project moving forward. Improving access and safety at Exit 140 is a win for everyone—from our shoppers and employees to the entire Leeds community. We appreciate the City’s commitment to supporting growth and enhancing the visitor experience,” Christine Strange, Vice-President of Operations, The Shops of Grand River.

These upgrades are another milestone in Leeds' ongoing efforts to ensure a safe, efficient, and inviting experience for both residents and visitors alike.

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City of Leeds Completes Major LED Lighting Upgrade at Exit 140

The City of Leeds is proud to announce the completion of a significant infrastructure project at Exit 140, with the installation of brand-new LED lighting fixtures. This long-anticipated upgrade brings improved nighttime visibility, enhanced reliability, and a safer, more welcoming entrance to one of the city's busiest intersections—home to major attractions like Buc-ee’s, Bass Pro Shop and The Shops of Grand River.

This project demonstrates the City’s continued commitment to infrastructure improvement and public safety. The state-of-the-art LED fixtures not only provide a brighter and more efficient lighting solution, but also place Leeds among a select number of cities in Alabama with fully operational and modernized exit lighting systems.

Leeds Mayor David Miller shared his enthusiasm for the project, stating: “Just another update from the mayor’s corner here. We wanted to let you know of something that we've been working on a long, long time and that we're very proud of. Thanks to our electrical team headed up by Mike Cauble and our Economic Development group that saw this through, we're now happy to announce that we have new all-LED lighting at our Exit 140—our exit for Buc-ee’s and Bass Pro. The lighting was really poor there, so we went in with all brand-new fixtures, all brand-new LED lighting. We’re one of the few in the state that's got every light that works—and they're all LEDs.”

This lighting upgrade not only enhances safety and navigation for visitors and residents, but also signals Leeds’ proactive approach to economic development and infrastructure excellence. The full impact of the improvements is most evident after dark, offering a striking visual testament to the City's progress and vision.

Leeds Pickleball Project Set to Elevate Local Recreation

Leeds is about to take a major step forward in expanding recreational opportunities with the much-anticipated Leeds Pickleball Centre. Designed to cater to both casual players and competitive athletes, this state-of-the-art facility will bring a premier pickleball experience to the community, further establishing Leeds as a hub for active living and sports engagement.

The bid was awarded to the low-bidder, Milam & Company, LLC, at this week’s Council meeting. This company has previous experience in municipal sports and recreation facilities construction projects and construction will begin soon.

The project includes the development of 12 regulation-size pickleball courts, complete with high-quality surfaces, nets, and black vinyl-coated fencing with gates to ensure a professional playing environment. These courts will provide ample space for tournaments, leagues, and casual matches, inviting players of all skill levels to enjoy the fast-growing sport of pickleball.

A 230’ x 155’ pre-engineered metal building will house essential amenities. This facility will include a standing seam metal roof and a turn-down skirt for durability and aesthetic appeal. The structure will serve as the central hub for activities, offering a welcoming environment for players and spectators alike.

To enhance accessibility and convenience, the Leeds Pickleball Centre will incorporate several key infrastructure elements. A well-planned parking area with standard-duty asphalt pavement and designated spaces will ensure smooth traffic flow and ample parking capacity. Sidewalks, concrete curbs, and a drainage system have been integrated into the design to promote safety and sustainability throughout the site. Additionally, a comprehensive electrical system will power the facility, including service panels, lighting, and control systems to support evening play and enhanced visibility.

With a focus on quality construction and player satisfaction, the Leeds Pickleball Centre is poised to become a premier destination for pickleball enthusiasts in the region. The city’s investment in this project reflects a commitment to fostering active lifestyles and community engagement. As the sport continues to rise in popularity, Leeds is taking a proactive step in providing residents and visitors with a first-class facility that will serve as a gathering place for years to come.

“Milam and Company has done some beautiful work in this area and we're certainly looking forward to breaking ground shortly. This is going to be something the whole community can use from young folks to older folks and I think this will be probably the biggest attraction in the city since we built the splash pad so, you that have been calling, here it is!” shared Leeds Mayor David Miller.

Stay tuned for updates as construction progresses, and get ready to experience the best in pickleball at the new Leeds Pickleball Centre!

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"Good day, everybody, happy to have this opportunity to bring you some good news about a subject that's been a hot item here in Leeds for the last few years. Nothing comes to me more than the idea that we should have a pickleball court and I didn't know what a pickleball court was or what pickleball was, but I've seen a lot of videos on it now. I've seen some of the installations that other municipalities have and I think it's something that's going to be a real plus for our Citizens. We're going to build a large 12-court state-of-the-art covered pickleball court on the flat land beside our civic center. We've got good parking there. We're getting a new parking lot paved to help out. We've got the state-of-the-art bathrooms that double as storm shelters so all of you people, and there's a lot of you who have called me over a period of time and says why in the world don't we have a pickleball court. Well, it's coming. We awarded the contract to Mylam Corporation Monday night at the council meeting. They were the low bidder and not only were they the lower bidder, they were the most experienced contractor who bid. They've done some beautiful work in this area and we're certainly looking forward to breaking ground shortly. This is going to be something the whole community can use from young folks to older folks and I think this will be probably the biggest attraction in the city since we built the splash pad so, you that have been calling, here it is!" shared Mayor Miller

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Winter Weather Advisory Public Service Announcement

For City of Leeds Residents

Extreme Arctic Weather / Temperatures are predicted for several consecutive days this week. If you find yourself without heat or stranded and need assistance, please call the City of Leeds Non-Emergency Dispatch number at 205.699.2581 and our dispatch will transport  you to whatever warming station is available in the area.

Please take proper precautions for staying warm and safe during this potential arctic weather.

The City of Leeds

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Groundbreaking Ceremony Scheduled for New SpringHill Suites Hotel in Leeds, Alabama

Leeds, Alabama – [January 16^th, 2025] – A groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, January 16 at 10:00 am to celebrate the start of construction on a new SpringHill Suites by Marriott in Leeds, Alabama. The hotel will be developed and managed by Jackson Hospitality Services and will be located next to the existing Hampton Inn off Rex Lake Road.

In case of inclement weather, the ceremony will be held indoors at the Hampton Inn located at 310 Rex Lake Road.

“We are thrilled to welcome SpringHill Suites to Leeds,” said Mayor David Miller. “This new hotel will be a significant addition to our growing community, offering a modern and comfortable stay option for visitors and business travelers. It will also create new jobs and contribute to the local economy.”

Cory Jackson Jr., President of Jackson Hospitality Services, expressed excitement about bringing the SpringHill Suites brand to Leeds. “This hotel will offer guests a comfortable and convenient stay experience with all the amenities they need, including spacious suites, free breakfast, and a fitness center.”

The SpringHill Suites Leeds is expected to open in 2026 and will feature 115 guest rooms, a spacious lobby, and a full-service bar. The lobby décor will display a Formula One race car on loan from the neighboring Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum.

About SpringHill Suites

SpringHill Suites by Marriott offers a refreshing and stylish stay experience with spacious suites designed for both work and relaxation. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast, a fitness center, and other amenities.

About Jackson Hospitality Services, Inc.

Since 1977, Jackson Hospitality Services has developed and managed over 50 hotels throughout the country. As third generation hoteliers, brothers Neal and Cory Jackson operate hotels throughout the state of Alabama.

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SpringHill Suites by Marriott photos are a prototype and an example of what the new hotel at Leeds will look like.

IMAGINE LEEDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

Date: November 22, 2024

Leeds to Hold Public Hearing on Recently Published Comprehensive Plan

Leeds, AL-Mayor David Miller and City Council are pleased to announce that the City of Leeds is nearing completion of the 2024 Comprehensive Plan, “IMAGINE Leeds”. The Comprehensive Plan is an action-oriented city-wide planning process to make Leeds, Alabama, a better place to Live, Work, and Play. It is a plan developed by our citizens for our citizens and addresses a wide variety of issues, including land use, transportation, housing, recreation, and economic development.

The public is encouraged to review the draft version of the plan, which is published on the project website at www.imagineleeds.com, provide comment on the draft version, including topics such as downtown development, future land use, and road connectivity/ improvements and leave their feedback online as soon as possible and prior to a public hearing event open to the general public.

This public hearing event will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 12 during the Planning & Zoning Commission meeting at the Leeds City Hall Annex at 1408 9^th St, Leeds, AL 35094. Any feedback and comments submitted prior to the public hearing will be incorporated into a final draft for the city’s consideration. At the hearing, members of the community will be able to review the final version of the plan. The planning commission will consider the final plan document at this meeting.

The IMAGINE Leeds planning process has provided the community with multiple opportunities to guide future land use and development goals in order to meet local needs and seize the opportunities of our quickly growing city. Hundreds of citizens have contributed to this process through in-person meetings and online engagement. Although the plan is nearing completion, this event is an important opportunity to have your voice heard.

This is a public process, and the city wants to involve as many citizens as possible. If you have not yet been involved in the process, this public hearing is your final opportunity to contribute your opinions before the plan is finalized. The long-term success of the Comprehensive Plan and the city itself depends on an actively engaged citizenry. We invite you to review the visionary work done so far in planning a more prosperous and vibrant future for our city.

“We are looking forward to presenting the draft plan to the public as this important process nears completion. Community input drives the overall development of the comprehensive plan and is vital to the success of the plan. This is a great chance for the community to refine their values, vision, and hopes for the future of Leeds. We are excited to hear from you, the citizens, so that we can work together as a team to secure a brighter future for Leeds.” - David Miller

Plan Links:

Project Website: www.imagineleeds.com

Photo courtesy of Goodwin Mills Cawood.

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November 22, 2024 - Avenu Update for Upcoming Business License Renewals

Valued Avenu Customer,

As we approach the Business License renewal season, we want to provide you with some important information and updates regarding the renewal process.

Key Renewal Details:

Renewal Notices: 2025 renewal notices will be mailed starting in mid-November. Click here to access a sample of the license renewal notice.
Renewal Due Date: Renewals are due by January 31st, 2025, and will be considered delinquent after February 1st (some client licenses may be considered delinquent as of February 16th).
Support Hours: Our business license support is available Monday–Friday, 7:30 am – 6:30 pm CST. Please note that peak call volume occurs in mid to late January. A callback option is available for convenience.
Self-Service Portal: We now offer a Self-Service Portal for business/taxpayer support, allowing easy access to services and greater visibility into request handling and resolution.
Large Remittances: During peak mailing periods, we prioritize the posting of large remittances.
Fund Disbursements & License Mailing: We disburse funds 10-15 times per month and mail issued licenses after each disbursement.
License Holds: If a license is on hold due to issues such as underpayment, gross receipts, certification requirements, etc., we will notify the business by mail with instructions to resolve the hold.

Direct Payment Processing Options:

If you receive direct payments (walk-in, mail-in, Alabama Power, Utility Payments etc.), you can:

Deposit the payment and enter the payment details into the Government Service Center portal (online reports) via revds.com.
Deposit the payment, log into our Customer Service Portal, and create a case for processing and license issuance.

New Enhancements for the 2025 Renewal Season:

We are excited to announce the following improvements to streamline the renewal experience:

Government Service Center Portal License Reprint: You can now print a license after you have entered it into the portal and reprint a previously issued license. Contact client support if you have questions or need training.
Online Filing License Reprint for Businesses: Businesses can log in to their account to reprint issued licenses and view any hold reasons.
Guest Checkout for Online License Renewal: Businesses can renew licenses without creating an account, offering a faster, easier experience.

We deeply appreciate the opportunity to serve your community! Should you have any questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to contact the Avenu Client Relations Department.

Sincerely,
Client Support Team & Business License Department
Avenu Insights & Analytics

September 16, 2024

City of Leeds Mayor David Miller discusses the 2024-2025 budget that just passed at the Council meeting this week.

“Hello everybody, we just had a very exciting council meeting even though it was very short and sweet. We ended up approving the budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 and included in that budget are several things that we had already either passed about at a council or talked about passing, and tonight we funded each of those items. One of the most important things there and from all the calls I've been getting, people are very interested. We're going to be able to build a state-of-the-art pickleball court adjacent to our Civic Center which will do two things: one it'll build us this wonderful pickleball court, 12 courts, all regulation, all first class, but it will also add parking for the pickleball court and at the same time, add additional parking where our seniors at the Civic Center and the people that come to the Civic Center for other business, so that's one biggie that we've got done now and we should actually be starting on this within the next couple of weeks. You'll see the ground being moved up there within the next couple of weeks.

Remember, we had a wonderful discussion about the sports park and this is something that we've been working on now at least five or six years, thinking about it even longer than that. Still, the council approved our plan tonight, we funded the budget which has our part of that plan included. We will be meeting within a week with all the various partners in this big project to try to put the final legal paperwork to bed and get started, so this looks like it's going to happen. Nothing happens until the names are on the dotted line, but we're getting very close. I think the pen is poised to start writing so just wanted to let you know that the project is still very much alive and we'll know something about it within a month, so just letting you know that.

One more thing I want to remind you of, I think it's been talked about a bit, but we have our National Night Out coming up here on the 1st of October, that's a Tuesday night. It'll be from 5:00 to 8:00 pm at the at Leeds Memorial Park. This is a great night for families to come out. We'll have hot dogs, some entertainment and it'll be just a good evening, so mark calendars for 1st of October, National Night Out at Leeds Memorial Park.”

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September 10, 2024

Leeds Mayor Announces Funding for Splash Pad and Playground Equipment Upgrades

With summer coming to an end, the City of Leeds has begun construction and installation of two major children’s play facilities that includes demolition and new construction of the large playground at Leeds Memorial Park on Montevallo Road and the Leeds Splash Pad location on Park Avenue.

“As Mayor, I’m happy to announce major new investments in our city’s children’s facilities. Our first big project is a complete makeover and upgrade to the children’s playground at Memorial Park. We have earmarked approximately three-quarters of a million dollars to replace all the old playground equipment, upgrade access to Americans with Disabilities Act standards and replace the rock and shavings ground cover with new safer materials. The project is expected to be finished in a few weeks and will give Leeds one of the finest children’s play facilities in the state,” stated Mayor David Miller.

The City’s splash pad closed the 2024 season a few days early due to some major malfunctions in the equipment. Decisions were made to completely renovate the splash pad with all new water features and replace the defective equipment during the fall and winter months.

Miller went on to share, “Many folks wondered about the early closing of our splash pad this year. We have major leaks under the concrete and our pumping equipment is in bad shape. I’m happy to announce that a complete remake of our splash pad will commence shortly and will give us what is essentially a completely new facility. Included in this project will be all new, more durable features as well as new pumping equipment and piping. An up-to-date, safer surface will also be included. This project will be completed in time for spring opening on schedule and will give Leeds’ children the finest splash pad in the area. We will continue to provide this facility free of charge to Leeds residents and other designated personnel.”

The preschool playground at the park was completely renovated August of 2023 with all new playground equipment, designed for children aged 2 to 5, that focuses on the child’s developmental needs and play styles. It includes sensory activities (visual, tactile, and auditory), age-appropriate climbing activities, and interactive elements to improve fine motor skills. The system features slides, climbers, a themed climber, a climbing tunnel, a table with seats for two, and a large roof for shade to ensure a comfortable play environment. The walking track was also resurfaced and an adult outdoor fitness park was added in 2022.

These are just two of the major projects underway in the City of Leeds as city leaders continue to look for ways to improve city amenities and enhance the quality of life for its residents.

For more information about Leeds Memorial Park and Splash Pad projects, please contact Public Works at 205.699.0935.

The project aims to integrate the old with the new, capturing the charm of historic Leeds. The new build will be inclusive of salvaged brick from the original hardware building and restoring it to its original state. The rest of new building aims to integrate red brick, and pay homage to the past of the surrounding fabric by using scale and form to tie into its neighboring structures. The design aims to blend modern elements with traditional brick detailing. The integration of these elements will create a building that withstands time.

The plan for the new facility includes office and meeting space on the first floor and mezzanine levels. The building will also house conference space, a games room, break room, and open office area. The plan is meant to accommodate a growing TA team for now and the future. The new facility will increase foot traffic in downtown Leeds to support the local community.

“This is a project we have been working on with Mr. Schell for several months now and it is exciting to see it come to fruition,” shared Mayor David Miller. We have a developer who understands the significance of the historical value of this building and has chosen to go to the effort and the expense of incorporating it into his new plan. We are excited to see this building be given a second life!

“We are pleased to continue the expansion of our business with the addition of this new facility, which blends the new with the old. We believe that this investment and design will help set the tone for the continued development and revitalization of the community for years to come. The City of Leeds met TA with open arms about eleven years ago as we opened operations with a handful of key employees. We are now preparing a campus that will house over 250 people. We have been supported from the start by the Leeds community, governmental leaders, local business owners and several community associations focused on business development and revitalization efforts. We are grateful for this support and excited for TA Services’ future in Leeds, Alabama,” said Scott Schell, President & CEO of TA.

Christopher Architecture and Interiors has served as the architect and interior design on the project and Watson Bruhn Contractors has been awarded the bid for construction. The project aims to be complete by mid-2025.

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August 19, 2024

The City of Leeds would like to share this letter from TA Services to the Leeds community regarding their upcoming development project involving the Abercrombie-Walker Building located at 1524 9th Street. We truly appreciate their partnership and dedication to the well-being of Leeds.

Dear Residents, Neighbors, and Friends,

We are writing to share important news about a new development project that involves the Abercrombie-Walker Building at 1524 9th Street.

Before progress begins, we wanted to be very transparent and communicate to the Leeds community that we greatly respect the history that this building represents. We also want you to know that our respect is reflected in the design of the new building.

Our primary goal is to honor the building’s legacy while introducing new elements that will benefit our community. Although we will need to carefully remove the existing structure, we are committed to preserving as much of its historic character as possible. Our plan includes salvaging and reusing the original bricks and incorporating key architectural details into the new design.

The new facility is designed with great sensitivity to the building’s original aesthetics and the surrounding environment. We want to preserve the history and incorporate the look and feel of the city of Leeds in the updated structure. TA invests in this community because of its charm and history. Our intention is not to overshadow the building’s history but to enhance it in a way that aligns with contemporary needs and infrastructure.

We have included images of the current building, as well as a visualization of our proposed design, to help you see how we plan to respect and incorporate the building’s historic elements into the new facility. We hope these visuals will provide a clearer picture of how the new design will honor the past while embracing the future.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at 659.210.4990.

Respectfully,

TA Services

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PRESS RELEASE

Office of the Mayor

City of Leeds

July 15, 2024

As the Mayor of Leeds, Alabama, I am excited and proud to announce that through the efforts of the Leeds City Council and the Leeds Economic Team, consisting of myself, Lee Barnes, Laura Barnes, Johnny Brunson, Scott Barnett, Brad Watson, Advisor Charlie Waldrep, and partners Jefferson County, Sports Illustrated, RSA (Retirement Systems of Alabama), and USX (United States Steel), the City has approved an agreement to transform Exit 140.

This transformation will include:

- A regional sports park drawing thousands of visitors to our city.

- A hospitality component consisting of three new hotels with over 400 rooms.

- A water feature known as the Crystal Lagoon, featuring a beach and approximately three to four acres of lagoon.

- A bridge that will open up thousands of acres for a master plan residential development.

- A retail component that will be owned and marketed by the RSA (Retirement Systems of Alabama).

With the cooperation of all these entities, this project will transform this area of Leeds into a destination for families from across the Southeast. This project will add to the quality of life of our existing residents by generating tax dollars and revenue for our school system and projects that will benefit our entire city.

This will enable the City to create a platform for the restaurants and retail establishments we have always desired. The success of this project relies on the cooperation of all partners working together.

I am thankful for all those partners who have given countless hours and efforts toward the success of this project.

Contact:

David Miller, Mayor

205-577-1396

dmiller@leedsalabama.gov

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July 15, 2024

Leeds Introduces a New Software to Connect Personally with Residents

Today marks an exciting development for the City of Leeds, AL, as they launch an innovative approach to connect with residents, enhance transparency, and improve access to city services. With the introduction of Rep’d, a cutting-edge video messaging and engagement platform designed specifically for local government interactions, residents can pose questions to city staff members and receive brief, personalized video responses. Notifications are promptly sent to residents' inboxes when their questions are answered, ensuring immediate engagement.

The City of Leeds is one of the first municipalities in the southeast to utilize Rep’d. “We’re always looking for ways to connect personally with the Leeds community while keeping residents informed,” said City Administrator Brad Watson. “We’ll be using this tool to ensure everyone in the Leeds community is heard, informed, and has a personal connection to City leadership.”

One of the standout features of this new platform is its simplicity. There’s no need to download an app or log into any software. To participate, residents simply visit the website to submit their questions along with their email address. The questions are then reviewed to identify the most suitable city staff member who will provide a video response. If a question requires a more direct conversation, it will be handled, accordingly. All questions and answers remain on the website so others may view them who might have similar questions. The city will also have the option to share videos on social media to broaden their reach with this information.

In addition to Rep’d, the City of Leeds has introduced other initiatives to boost community communication, such as the Online Services Portal and TextMyGov applications. More innovative tools are on the horizon and will be announced soon. Concurrently, the city is developing a 10-year comprehensive plan, inviting residents to share their visions for Leeds via a survey at https://ImagineLeeds.com.

Residents are encouraged to join the conversation at repd.us/leeds or through the Ask Leeds button on the city website at https://LeedsAlabama.gov.

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July 8, 2024

Something Hope-Filled Opens in Downtown Leeds!

Leeds, AL – The Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of Leeds proudly celebrated the grand opening of "Something Hope-Filled" with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday, July 8th. The store, which officially opened its doors to the public on Saturday, promises to bring unique, gently used, upscale home goods and furnishings to the community.

Executive Director Holley Pugh led the ribbon-cutting, joined by Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce members, local business owners, chamber board members, Leeds Main Street members, Hope-Filled Rooms volunteers, friends, and family.

Chamber President Steven Weems welcomed the new retailer and expressed his excitement, "We are excited to have Something Hope-Filled open up right here in downtown Leeds!”

Executive Director Holley Pugh shared the mission behind the store, explaining, "Something Hope-Filled is a second-hand store for upscale items for home goods and home furnishings. Everything we make here will go to our nonprofit organization, Home-Filled Rooms which helps women in sex trafficking and sex exploitation. We actively help women who are active in the life of sex trafficking and build relationships with them to let them know that they have options, they have next steps that they can take so if you come in here everything's negotiable but, everything we make is just to help those women and let them know that they still have opportunities in their lives. We appreciate your business and hope you come in and see us!”

The store enjoyed a successful opening weekend, with enthusiastic shoppers already visiting. Something Hope-Filled is located at 8149 Parkway Drive in historic downtown Leeds.

You can help their cause by shopping and donating upscale home goods and furnishings. Hope-Filled Rooms is a 501c3 nonprofit organization so your donations are tax-deductible.

For more information, please visit the Something Hope-Filled Facebook page and their website https://hopefilledrooms.org.

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Ribbon Cutting at The Burrow Bookstore in Downtown Leeds

The City of Leeds and Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce conducted a ribbon cutting on Monday, June 24th, at The Burrow Bookstore which just opened a few days ago. Mayor David Miller cut the ribbon with store owners, Andi and Josh Argo, the Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce, a host of Leeds area business owners, chamber board members, and representatives from Leeds Main Street.

Mayor Miller welcomed the new bookstore, “Wow, what a crowd! This is great! Welcome to Leeds Main Street and we are certainly happy to have you. You know, the main focus of this administration for the past 12 years is that education is the key and books are, of course, the cornerstone of education. We are really happy to see this downtown. We’ve needed something like this downtown for a long time so again, welcome and I think you'll do great!”

The Burrow Bookstore’s Andi Argo shared, “Thank you! We're so excited to be down here to finally be open. It's been a lot of work and I'm really proud of how it turned out!”

A large crowd of customers lined up early on the street during the ribbon cutting to be the first in the door for the bookstore’s grand opening festivities. The Argo’s had a full line-up of activities scheduled throughout the day for their grand opening celebration including Suga Mamas Bakery Cookies, Belle from Beauty & the Beast to visit, goody bags for first customers and coupons for future purchases.

The Burrow Bookstore is located at 8139 Parkway Drive in historic downtown Leeds. For more information about this new retailer, please visit their Facebook page.

IMAGINE LEEDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release

Date: June 16, 2024

Leeds to Hold Second Public Event for Citywide Comprehensive Plan

Mayor David Miller and City Council are pleased to announce that the City of Leeds is continuing work on its Comprehensive Plan, “Imagine Leeds.” All residents and interested citizens are welcome to attend the plan’s second community event on Thursday, June 20 at 5:30 at the City Hall Annex (1412 9^th St). This will involve an update on the plan’s progress and interactive exercises to determine long-term priorities. The Comprehensive Plan is an action-oriented city-wide planning process to make Leeds, Alabama, a better place to Live, Work, and Play. It is a plan developed by our citizens for our citizens, which addresses a wide variety of issues, including land use, transportation, housing, recreation, and economic development.

The IMAGINE process provides the community with the opportunity to guide land use and development to meet the future needs and opportunities of our City. The Comprehensive Plan update will enable the City to refine our vision to strategically maintain and enhance the quality of life for our community.

This is a public process, and the City wants to involve as many citizens as possible. There have been several opportunities for public involvement, including a kickoff community meeting and an online survey. A series of public meetings and events will be included in the planning process. The first of these meetings was held with residents on January 11, where locals worked together to establish a common vision for the future of the city. The second community meeting will be held on June 20, where all residents are invited to an update on the plan’s progress and potential projects and to provide feedback on their desired future land use and development patterns for the City.

“This is a great opportunity for citizen input and a chance to have a voice in directing the City’s future,” said Mayor Miller.

The City looks forward to hearing from residents, business owners, landowners, employees, students, and other interested parties as this important process gets underway to plan for the future of the City of Leeds. Community input drives the overall development of the comprehensive plan and is vital to the success of the plan. This is a chance for the community to share their values, vision, and hopes for the future of Leeds on Thursday, June 20.

For more information about Imagine Leeds comprehensive plan or the city of Leeds, please visit https://imagineleeds.com and https://leedsalabama.gov.

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June 13, 2024 Special Invitation to the Public:

JOIN US! You are invited to attend the second public meeting for the City of Leeds Comprehensive Plan. Come, give your feedback on the plan’s final direction and review potential project ideas. This will be a great interactive event. Don’t miss it!!

IMAGINE LEEDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

Community Event 2

Thursday, June 20 – 5:30 PM

Leeds City Hall Annex

1412 9th Street, Leeds, AL 35094

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LEEDS SUMMER EVENT SCHEDULE:

Dear Leeds Community, we invite you and your families to take advantage of these FREE SUMMER EVENTS compliments of the Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of Leeds.

Downtown Movie Nights

Dates: Fridays, June 7, July 12, August 2

Location: Concrete Parking Lot at the Corner of Parkway Drive & 8th Street

Schedule: 6-8p Food Trucks, Children’s Games / 8p Outdoor Movie

June 7 – School’s Out Celebration / Movie: The Parent Trap

July 12 – Summer Movie Night / Movie: Trolls

August 2, Back to School Bash Movie Night / Movie: Shrek 2

Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and kids for a great evening under the stars! We will have food trucks and games for the children prior to the movie.

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Imagine Leeds Comprehensive Plan Events

Dates & Times: Friday, June 7 Open House Planning Tent at Downtown Movie Night Event and Thursday, June 13 Group Presentation/Group Exercises at City Hall

People of Leeds, please join us on Friday, June 7, at the downtown Leeds Summer Movie Night for an update and interactive exercise about the Imagine Leeds Comprehensive Plan. Prior to the movie screening the planning team will be set up in a booth on site from 6:30-8:00 to share key research and public input findings and potential goals and actions for the final plan with anyone who is interested. The movie night event will have a variety of other booths and vendors, so feel free to grab a bite to eat and swing by the planning tent with any questions or ideas you may have. This will be an open house style planning activity without a formal presentation so drop in whenever you can and review the posters at your own pace. You will also have the opportunity to participate in an individual engagement exercise to help prioritize the plan’s projects and recommended actions. We hope to see you at the planning tent for our downtown movie night as well as at a more formal follow-up meeting the following week on Thursday, June 13 at 6pm in City Hall. The June 13 meeting will include a more in-depth group presentation and group exercises. Please join us for one or both of our upcoming Imagine Leeds events, we’ll see you there! Thank you from the City of Leeds and the GMC Planning Team.

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Kid’s Bicycle Parade

Date: Saturday, June 30

Location: Leeds Memorial Park

Schedule: 9:30a Registration / 10:00a Parade

The Kid’s Bicycle Parade will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. at the entrance of the walking track in Leeds Memorial Park on Hwy. 119. Those wanting to ride, roll or walk in this special summer parade should be there around 9:30 a.m. to get in the lineup. Kids of all ages are welcome. Anyone can walk, ride or roll in this event and everyone is encouraged to decorate their rides in celebration of Independence Day. It’s going to be a lot of fun! You may pre-register for the parade online at https://LeedsAreaChamber.com. This is not a race, but a bike parade. Prizes will be awarded for best decorated rides. You must register to be eligible for prizes.

Happy Summer!!

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