Andalusia City Council Meeting
Date: October 21, 2025 Type: Regular Meeting
Summary
A brief meeting held just before the November 3 organizational transition, featuring recognition of a police officer’s heroism and farewell to a long-serving council member.
Key Decisions
Mental Health Board Appointment — Council appointed Hazel Griffin to the South Central Alabama Mental Health Board.
Heritage Park Water Feature Naming — Resolution 2025-37 — Council unanimously approved naming the water feature (lake) at Heritage Park “Lake Sylvia” in recognition of Sylvia Johnson, First Lady of Andalusia. The resolution cited her 21 years of service and stated she will continue in the role for the next four years. Adopted by acclamation.
Notable Recognition
Officer Zach Wallace Heroism Proclamation — Mayor presented a proclamation honoring Officer Wallace for his actions on October 11, 2025. The officer, after completing a 12-hour weekend shift, attended his nine-year-old son’s pee wee football game at Strawn High School. When a fight broke out between adults over the game and one participant produced a gun, Officer Wallace disarmed the suspect while others fled, preventing a potential tragedy.
Hazel Griffin Farewell — 17 Years of Service — Mayor presented a proclamation to Councilwoman Griffin on her final night serving on the council after 17 consecutive years (elected 2008, reelected multiple times including a one-vote victory in 2008, 27-vote margin in 2012, and 85-vote margin in 2016). The proclamation noted:
- Tireless advocacy for her constituents and residents beyond her district
- Commitment to community cleanup and nuisance abatement (holding fellow members accountable)
- Known affectionately as “Sugar” by associates
- Set the standard for council dress code with stylish, trendy attire
- Served in a ministerial role, covering the mayor and council in prayer
Administrative Notes
Halloween Trick-or-Treat Announcement — Due to Halloween falling on Wednesday, October 30 trick-or-treating hours were set for Thursday, October 31, 5:30-8:00 p.m. (per 2007 ordinance).
Attendance
Mayor Earl V. Johnson and full council present.
Next Meeting
November 3, 2025 (Organizational Meeting)