Council seeks way to honor Alexander
By Melinda L. Lucas
City council members acknowledged the work of Albany mayor Rodney Alexander, who died suddenly earlier this month, during their meeting on Monday, Jan. 13, commenting on his service to the community and the time he spent to make improvements for his fellow citizens.
Council members intend to declare a day in Alexander’s honor but weren’t able to make an official decision this week because that item wasn’t on the agenda.
“I think we should consider declaring a Rodney Alexander Day or find some other way to honor his memory,” said longtime councilman Lester Galbreath.
Other council members agreed, including mayor pro tem Susan Montgomery, who began the meeting with an emotional tribute to the late mayor.
Wednesday Filing
Montgomery stated after the meeting that she had decided to run for Alexander’s one-year unexpired term, and she signed paperwork on Wednesday morning, Jan. 15, the first day of the month-long filing period.
“I want to continue as best I can the projects that Rodney didn’t get to finish,” said the mayor pro tem, “and also move forward with other improvements.”
Airport Lounge
Airport supervisor Chuck Sheppard and city manager Billy Holson reported Monday night on progress at Hickman Field, where a pilots lounge is well underway.
“We had a long delay while we waited for the rock work to get started, but the outside is basically finished now, except for the front columns and a cover over the entrance,” said Sheppard.
Holson said that completion of the project is “not far away.”
The pilots lounge is being funded by federal Routine Airport Maintenance Program (RAMP) grant monies and private donations.
Other Business
•Council members approved a request by the owners of Top Hand RV Park to reduce the number of water meters and trash containers at the site from 10 to five.
•Holson’s recommendations for amending the 2019-2020 budget were approved, and the city manager summarized financial data year-to-date, commending local citizens for continuing to support the community with donations in various areas such as the airport, parks, and the fire department.
— —
