By Bethany Adams, For The Tribune
CLAY—Monday’s City Council meeting was the last for Councilors Ricky Baker and Kevin Small, each of whom decided not to run for City Council in this fall’s elections. The council issued proclamations recognizing the service of both men.
Baker, who served from 2003 until 2008 and from 2012 until this year, served as the liaison to the Public Safety Committee.
“I want to thank everybody for letting me serve. It’s been a pleasure,” Baker said. “I wish y’all the best.”
Small served from 2008 until this year. He was the liaison to the Library Board and Public Works Department.
“Y’all have been a great group of people to work with and have been very supportive of me both as a council person and with stuff in my personal life,” Small told the council.
Mayor Charles Webster thanked both men for their service.
“I’ve enjoyed having you here, and the things that we’ve gotten accomplished I feel like have been really good for the city,” he said.
During Pre-Council, City Manager Ronnie Dixon cleared up the confusion surrounding the Zoning and Planning meeting that will take place on Thursday, October 20 at 6 p.m. The meeting, regarding the construction of Goodwin Subdivision located near the entrance of Paradise Valley, is an informational public hearing designed to let community members ask questions and view the plans for construction.
“All of the decisions have been made, all of the votes have been cast,” Dixon said.
While community members will be allowed to speak in opposition of the project, Dixon clarified that the vote approving the plan has already been passed.
“If you want to come and see what the builder’s plans are, you can come and see that,” Dixon said.
Community members can also send written statements or petitions, including the case number, to the City Manager at P.O. Box 345 Clay, Alabama 35048 prior to the hearing date.
Councilor Becky Johnson announced the Veteran’s Day Lunch at Clearview Baptist Church on Friday, November 11. Veterans are allowed to bring a guest, and anyone who wishes to attend should register by calling City Hall at 680-1223.
“If you know of any veterans that haven’t made it in the past, we’d love to have them,” Webster added.
Also during the meeting, the council approved two resolutions dealing with the abatement of weeds on properties in the area.
The next City Council meeting, as well as the swearing in ceremony for the new council members, will take place on Monday, November 7 at 6:30 p.m.