By Morgan Bryce
Associate Editor
Honoring the accomplishments and service of former mayor LaFaye Dellinger was the focal point of last Tuesday’s Smiths Station City Council meeting.
Mayor Bubba Copeland read a proclamation listing Dellinger’s accomplishments, which include:
• Subdivision regulations implementation
• Creation of planning and zoning board commissions
• Construction of Smiths Station Sports Complex and 1.1 mile-long walking trail
• Launching environmental solid waste program
• Forming Smiths Station’s Parks and Recreation Board.
Dellinger, a key leader in the Smiths Unity Campaign for Incorporation, helped lead a movement that successfully transformed the community into a city June 22, 2001. She defeated two candidates in the city’s first-ever mayoral elections and served four terms in office.
In a celebration held prior to their meeting, Copeland unveiled a commissioned portrait of Dellinger painted by local artist Sarah West. The painting will be a permanent fixture in the council chambers.
The council also approved a resolution naming West as the city’s commissioned artist, a recognition she said she was very humbled to receive.
“The occasion of last (Tuesday) evening was a milestone of heartfelt nature, that serves as a record of the events of our time. I’m honored to be appointed as the official artist to the City of Smiths Station,” West said. “It is a resolution that I accept with humility and responsibility. As an advocate for cultural enrichment, in addition to art, nature and history conservation, it means a great deal to witness the first fine art acquisition of mayor’s portrait by the city.”
In other business, the council:
• Approved financial statements for the general and environmental fund budgets for the month of June
• Reviewed topics of discussion at a recent Smiths Station Historical Preservation Commission.
The Smiths Station City Council meet the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at the Government Center, which is located at 2336 Lee Road 430.
For more information, visit www.smithsstational.gov or call 334-297-8771.