Lee named interim fire chief

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For the first time in almost 20 years, the Chelsea Fire and Rescue Department has a new leader at the helm. Joe Lee, who was appointed as Chelsea’s Deputy Fire Chief on July 7, was named interim fire chief during the Aug. 18 city council meeting. 

When former fire chief Wayne Shirley went into the hospital on July 8, Lee “took the bull by the horns” as Mayor Tony Picklesimer said. 

“He has done an amazing job in these last 40 or so days, and it is our pleasure and privilege to name you our interim fire chief,” Picklesimer said. “I want to compliment you on the way you’ve handled our department’s business and the way you honored Wayne at his funeral. You’ve been like an angel sent to me and I don’t know what we’d have done if you hadn’t stepped up as you have and I very much appreciate it.” 

Lee said things have been difficult the last few weeks, but he is proud of the way the department has responded amidst the loss of Chief Shirley. 

“They pulled together and worked hard to keep the department operating as it should be and the credit goes to them,” Lee said. “When Chief Shirley offered me the deputy chief job, I was honored and humbled that he thought to put me in that important role. I didn’t know how it would turn out, but believe God has a purpose and plan for everything, and I will do my best to lead by example and strive to make sure we get better every day. Chelsea Fire will continue to serve this community the same way they always have and continue to get better and better.”

A public hearing was held regarding the potential relocation of the Chelsea Post Office. Sandra Rybicki, who handles facilities, real estate and assets for the US Postal Service flew in from Plano, Texas for the hearing. 

She said their policy legally mandates them to host a public meeting to keep the public informed and provide details on the process.

“In Chelsea, the post office is severely space deficient to adequately conduct business,” she said. “It’s over-crowding is magnified by the rapid community growth. We are looking at expansion at the current facility, but the ability to expand it is only by 1,900 square feet for a total building size of 3,800 square feet. We are also looking at identifying a replacement facility, which would be an existing building of 4,700 square feet on 1.15 acres. This will allow for future growth.” 

Rybicki said the USPS will be looking within a one mile radius of the current post office and once a building is selected, the time frame would be about 8 to 10 months and customers would likely notice no impact whatsoever. 

Following the meeting, there will be a 30 day appeal or comment period. Comments will be reviewed, then a formalized decision will be made and a letter sent to the mayor. Comments may be sent to Sandra Rybicki, Facilities, Real Estate & Assets, US Postal Service, 660 Data Dr. Suite 200, Plano, TX 75075-9931.

Other resolutions approved during the meeting include: 

  • Enacting a business license moratorium for storage units
  • Accepting the lowest bid on the splash pad and restroom building/storm shelter to Clements-Dean for $1,417,314.60. 
  • Accepting a quote to The Grass Guys for landscaping around the Welcome to Chelsea signs for $3,245.00
  • Adopting an annual transportation plan pursuant to Rebuild Alabama Transportation Act. 
  • Approval to pay bills

The city also recently launched an economic development page on the City of Chelsea website. 58 INC provided demographic information, a demographic profile, 2025 housing projection model and more. 

Upcoming dates

Aug. 20: Live community forum to meet candidates for council place 3: Chris Grace and Chris Thomas. 6:30 p.m.

Aug. 24: Planning commission meeting at 6 p.m.

Aug 25: Municipal election. Polls open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Sept. 7: City offices closed Labor Day

Sept. 15: Nick Grant application deadline

The next Chelsea City Council meeting will be held Sept. 1 at Chelsea City Hall. Precouncil begins at 5 p.m. followed by the regular council meeting at 6 p.m.