Gleason Swears in Mayor, Aldermen

The City of Gleason held their December board meeting earlier than usual on Dec. 2 to swear in their mayor and aldermen and celebrate with music and food. Prior to the swearing in ceremony, two Gleason students performed songs. Hadley Garrison, a sophomore, performed a wonderful rendition of the national anthem and third grader Jade Kowalewski performed a sweet rendition of Grand Old Flag.

Gleason Mayor Charles Anderson’s two grandchildren helped lead the pledge of allegiance.

General Sessions Judge Tommy Moore then swore in Anderson as mayor for another term, Alderman Mike Bennett for another term, newly elected Mike Stafford, newly elected James Mayor Hines and newly elected L. Shawn Francisco.

“I just want to say I have the honor to serve the city for another four years. It takes a team of dedicated employees to do the work for the city. I don’t do it for the money, I do it for the whole town. I want all of the city employees to say that the city is a good place to work. I take pride in it and I’m honored to lead the city,” Anderson stated.

Anderson informed the board that he was a two-term man and would not be running for a third term. Anderson also said that he has a lot of expectations for the next four years with goals of good financial business, keeping the city clean, the streets in good shape and to keep the town as drug-free as possible.

“Ask not what your town can do for you, but what you can do for your town,” Anderson quoted John F. Kennedy.

The newly sworn in mayor and aldermen’s only business was to name the department heads. The City Recorder will be Marsha Hatley. The Assistant City Recorder will be Tracy Gaylord. The Police Chief will be Marcus Hopper. The Assistant Police Chief will be Michael Lowe. The Public Works Director will be Rodney Gardner. The Assistant Public Works Director will be Carter Cook and Brandon Peevyhouse. The Water Superintendent will be Clay Wright. The Fire Chief will be Mark Stafford. The Assistant Fire Chief will be Greg Cook. The Library Director will be Michellia Wilson. The City Judge will be Tommy Moore. The City Attorney will be Beau Pemberton. The City Auditor will be Alexander Thompson & Arnold (ATA). The board voted to approve unanimously.

Saturday, Dec. 7 will be Gleason’s Hometown Christmas event. There will be food trucks, music and a parade. Festivities start at 5 p.m.

The next regularly scheduled board meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 21 at 7 p.m. at City Hall.