By Tanna Friday
For The Tribune
The Springville City Council voted Thursday evening to appoint Trussville’s Parks and Recreation Director David Vinson as the District 2 council member filling Hugh Marlin’s vacant seat.
The Council approved the appointment of Vinson through Resolution 2018-01 to fulfill the balance of the District #2 term following interviews and presentations by all four applicants to fill the seat. Council members heard a presentation from each of the four candidates and asked them questions, including why they wanted to be city councilman, how they would handle difficult situations, and what their priorities are for the city.
Councilman Hugh Marlin resigned in December from his seat serving District 2 because of medical reasons. Marlin has served two full four-year terms on the Council and served a year into his third term before he resigned.
Vinson, who lives in McDonald Farms in Springville, has lived in the city for two years and has worked as Director of Parks and Recreation with the City of Trussville since 1996. Vinson has over 30 years of experience working with city governments, including working as Recreation Director with the City of Birmingham and Recreation Planner with the City of Gadsden. Vinson earned a Master’s of public administration and a Bachelor’s of science in recreation administration from Jacksonville State University.
“I’ve always had an interest in city governments,” said Vinson. “I knew I couldn’t run for city council in Trussville because I worked there. When we moved to Springville, I knew with my background, I thought I could help my town.”
Vinson feels confident he can bring a lot of experience to the table.
“I think with my background, I can advise the Council on future development, and with my background in writing grants, I can help find revenue sources for the city. I think those things are always helpful,” said Vinson.
Vinson will take the oath of office and be sworn in as a council member at the next council meeting on Feb. 5.
In other matters, the Council:
— Approved meeting minutes for Jan. 4 and Jan. 9 work session;
— Approved Nov 2017/Dec 2017 budget report;
— Approved Fern Street speeding sign installations;
— Approved appointment of Pastor Mike Ennis to serve as volunteer chaplain for the city of Springville; and
— Approved motion for Springville Fire Department to participate in the grant application with Center Point and pay $125 and agree to match if awarded.