BERLIN, Ala. – On Monday evening, Berlin Mayor Patrick Bates shared with his town council the news that local legislators have secured a $100,000 grant to reconstruct County Road 1600, including laying of a new road base and chip seal. According to the mayor, Rep. Randall Shedd, R-Fairview and Sen. Garlan Gudger, R-Cullman secured the grant, funds of which will be held by the County. County crews will be working on several roads around Berlin, of which the Town owns part, and Bates told the council that the Town and County are discussing sharing work on those as well, meaning that 75-80% of the subdivision roads in Berlin could potentially be paved this year.
Bates also shared that, in a meeting at Cullman County EMA earlier in the day, a $124,000 hazard mitigation grant proposal for a town storm shelter received local approval that will allow it to be sent to the state EMA for consideration. The local match grant, which must first be approved by the State, could bring the Town $93,000 toward the project, leaving Berlin having to pay only $31,000 for a 90-person storm shelter with two bathrooms and a generator.
Farmers’ Market days and hours set
The council also approved a schedule for the Berlin Farmers’ Market, which is scheduled to open on April 19. The facility will be open from 3-6 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays, and from 7 a.m.–noon on Saturdays. Because Town Clerk Keirstyn Montgomery will manage the Farmers’ Market, the council set town hall business hours for 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, and 7 a.m.–3 p.m. on Saturdays during the market season from April 19 through Oct. 30.
Bates told the council that certain growers are talking about the possibility of bringing jams, jellies and hot breakfast items on Saturdays, as well as eggs and frozen chickens, so the council approved the cost of two county garbage cans for the site. Bates is looking into possible needs for electrical lines and outlets.
Additionally, the council approved lettering that will be applied to the town hall building by Creative Signs at a cost of $550.
Weather radios still available
According to the council, 285 free weather radios have been distributed to residents in the Berlin fire district, representing only about 35% of those available. If you are a Berlin resident and do not have a radio, but want one, visit or contact Berlin Town Hall.
The Berlin Town Council meets at 7 p.m. on the third Monday evening of each month at Berlin Community Center. The public is invited to attend.
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