A public hearing was held at the Cedar Bluff Town Hall on July 10 at 4:30 p.m. to discuss the cutting of the trees on the causeway between Cedar Bluff and Centre. The town hall was packed with people coming to express their opinions and concerns on this most delicate matter.

As the speakers took their turn, it was evident this was going to be a tough decision to make.

Jerry Culberson, along with others, spoke for cutting the trees because of some of the dangers they cause obstructing peoples view and also because of erosion and the blocking of seeing the beautiful lake.

On the other hand, others such as Cindy Early, spoke against cutting the trees because of their beauty and the significance of the trees to the naming of the town…Cedar Bluff.

As the list of speakers went on, it was evident the vote might come down to the wire.

All those that were present were given ample opportunity to speak for or against the motion and deliver their true feelings.

This meeting was conducted in an orderly fashion and people even with differing opinions were very respectful of what their fellow citizens had to say.

The fact was also presented that the State of Alabama would be paying for the removal of all the trees and this opportunity was given as a one-time deal to the town of Cedar Bluff, which, in the long run, would save the town thousands of dollars.

After each person who wanted to speak had voiced their views, Mayor Sprouse adjourned the public hearing and encouraged all who wanted to stay for the Council meeting and hear the final verdict to do so.

As Council came into session, the vote was taken with three in favor of removal of the trees and two against.

The final verdict was rendered…Cedar Bluff will be hearing “TIMBER” in the near future -- clearing the causeway to beautiful Weiss Lake.