More candidates announce bids for Trussville office
By Alex Headley
Eight more Trussville citizens have joined the council and mayoral races. Jim Robinson and Carl W. Dykes have joined the mayoral race alongside previously announced candidates Scott Bradford and current Mayor Gene Melton.
Jim Robinson announced his candidacy for mayor of Trussville this week. Robinson is a former city councilman and longtime resident of Trussville. Robinson says he is running on a platform of fiscal responsibility.
“We are a growing city with a budget of $32 million annually,” Robinson said. “Proper public financial responsibility impacts every aspect of our lives: schools, neighborhoods, parks, and city services.”
Robinson is the founder of Midsouth Tank and Equipment, Inc. and The Pump Shop, Inc. Robinson sold the businesses in 1998. He served on the Trussville City Council in 1972 through 1976 and again in 2004 through 2008. He also served as the president of the Trussville Junior Chamber of Commerce. In addition to his business ventures and local government service, Robinson is an avid swimmer and Senior Olympic athlete.
Perry Cook has announced his candidacy for Place 1 on the Trussville City Council. Cook currently serves on the Trussville Downtown Redevelopment Authority and has previously served on the Trussville Planning and Zoning Board. Healso serves on the Missions Board and Ministry Planning Committee at Trussville First United Methodist Church. Cook has lived in Trussville with his family for over 35 years.
“My goals as city councilman are to continue improving street and sanitation, traffic flow, and our schools.” Cook said. “I want to further implement the master plan for downtown Trussville. I also firmly believe as a councilman, it will be my duty to be a good steward of public finances and revenues.”
Wayne Taylor is also running for place 1 on the city council. Taylor currently serves on the council and has played a role in many of the recent projects around the city. Taylor currently serves as council president.
“Trussville means a lot to me.” Taylor said. “My Father graduated from Hewitt in the early 40′s, and it has been an honor and a privilege to serve the citizens of Trussville the past 16 years.” The Mayor and Council have accomplished much in past years including keeping a balanced budget for the sixteen years I have served.”
Anthony Montalto is running for reelection to place 5 on the city council. Montalto is finishing up his first term on the council and is currently the Director of Student Services for Jefferson County Schools.
“I want Trussville to continue to be a city we are proud to call home.” Montalto said. “I want to continue to focus on the safety and education for this city.”
The 2012 Trussville municipal candidates are as follows: Mayor Gene Melton, Scott Bradford, Carl Dykes, and Jim Robinson are running for mayor; Perry Cook and Wayne Taylor are running for council place 1; Alan Taylor is currently running unopposed for council place 2; Buddy Choat is running unopposed for council place 3; Brian Plant is running unopposed for council place 4; David R. Guttery and Anthony Montalto are running for council place 5.
Trussville citizens can vote at one of two polling places in the city: Trussville City Hall and First Baptist Church. Voting will be held August 28.
