Cameron Bates was honored as Clanton Police Department’s 2014 Officer of the Year at the department’s annual banquet, which was held Feb. 24 at the Clanton Conference and Performing Arts Center.

Bates was the nominee from the South Precinct. He was chosen from among nominees from the West Precinct, David Kline, the North Precinct, Tera Easterling, and Municipal Court, Ronald Giles.

Kline, Easterling and Giles were also recognized at the banquet.

CPD Chief Brian Stilwell said officers at each of the precincts voted to determine a nominee, and then a group of supervisors decided among the nominees.

Bates stood out because of his work on a robbery case, his position as fire marshal for the city, his efforts as an instructor at the Public Service Academy at LeCroy Career Technical Center and his participation on the department’s Emergency Services Unit, Stilwell said.

Clanton resident Jessie Binion was also recognized at the banquet, as she received the “Police Star” award, which was handed out by Stilwell.

The chief said he selects someone for the award who has contributed “above and beyond” to the department and the city.

“She’s a very honorable lady,” Stilwell said. “She’s just contributed so much to help the West End community.”

Stilwell said Binion, who is a part of the West End Neighborhood Watch group, is quick to both praise and voice any concerns she might have about the city’s police force.

“She’s exactly what we need,” Stilwell said.

Birmingham Police Chief A.C. Roper was the guest speaker at the banquet, which had more than 100 attendees, including Mayor Billy Joe Driver and members of the City Council.

Stilwell said Roper spoke about leadership and issues facing police, including the public image of law enforcement.

Roper talked about initiatives undertaken by Birmingham police to enhance their standing in the community.

Clanton officers Richard Todd and Alvin Winters served as examples of the type of effort Roper mentioned.

Todd and Winters were presented with a commendation for an instance in which they helped repair a motorists vehicle. The situation was caught on video and received many favorable comments on social media, Stilwell said.