By STEVEN CALHOUN/Staff Writer

The West End Neighborhood Watch presented Councilman Greg DeJarnett a plaque to show thanks for all he has done for the community in his district. They thanked him for working in the cleanups, helping get Head Start back running and being a dedicated representative for the community.

Mayor Billy Joe Driver and the Clanton City Council expressed their thanks and wishes for DeJarnett as well.

“The past eight years has gone by pretty rapidly seems like,” said Driver. “We appreciate what you have meant to the council and the way that you have led your district, and we as a body will miss you and wish you the best in the future.”

The other members of the council expressed themselves as well, and DeJarnett addressed the council and the crowd.

“Let me just take this opportunity to extend my thank yous to the Mayor, the city council, Debbie [Orange], Mr. John Hollis and all of our department heads. Thank all of you for working with me,” said DeJarnett.

DeJarnett advised the council and the incoming councilman Awlahjaday Agee to lead with discipline in the pursuit of their vision.

“That’s where strength and continued prayer and a belief in yourself and a belief in what you’re trying to become take precedence over political expediency,” said DeJarnett.

His closing words of advice were to continue making life in Chilton County “just a little bit better” by increasing quality of life and adding entertainment and commerce. He praised the Council for their dedication and encouraged them to continue doing good work.

In other business:

• The Council approved to reappoint Bonnie Smith at the Clanton Housing Authority with terms to expire Sept. 1, 2020. Councilwoman Mary Mell Smith abstained from the vote.
• Street closures for Trick or Treat Street were discussed. The streets will be closed in such a way as to not block the fire station.
• Jeff Henley proposed a new offer at $3,000 for his neighborhood’s lots near Wilson Road. The lots in question are going to be used by the neighborhood as an access to the pond, if the neighborhood can purchase them. The Council tabled the discussion for a later meeting.
• The council discussed the disposal of cardboard now that the recycling program is being phased out. At present, Bibb County has a route that picks up cardboard from a few dumpsters in town. The Council discussed getting more dumpsters; they hope they may be given some, but discussed possibly buying more if necessary. No action was taken at the meeting.