The Chilton County Board of Education honored former board president Oscar James “O.J.” McGriff on Tuesday by presenting his family a resolution showing their appreciation for his service.

McGriff died in September. His wife, Martha McGriff, and sons Glenn and Russell, and Russell’s wife, Joan, accepted the resolution on his behalf.

“I’m so thankful that board recognized my dad and I’m very humble,” said Glenn, who followed his dad into politics. “The people of Chilton County were good to him and our family really appreciates the county.”

McGriff served 32 years on the Board of Education and served 30 of those years as the president.

“He was a very good board member,” said board member Joe Mims. “He loved the community, he loved the schools, and he was a veteran.”

In other business, Superintendent Keith Moore’s recommendation to take bids on a $1.53 million roofing project was approved.

Several schools and buildings in the community are in need of new roofs including: Clanton Intermediate; Jemison Elementary, main building and addition; BOE Central Office; alternate school/old Adair site; Maplesville High; Verbena High; Isabella High, main building; and Jemison Middle, old brick building/south end.

“Isabella is the worst roof we have,” said Wayne Howell, building maintenance supervisor. “It’s leaked for years now. There is an air conditioner on the roof, and the estimate for Isabella includes the installation of a new one.”

Depending on the condition of the building, some buildings will receive new metal roofing and others will receive new shingles.
The board will know more information regarding this project in about a month from now.

During the election of officers section, board member Joe Mims was elected as the new president of the Board of Education of Chilton County.