Johnson named as town's interim mayor; Council names Moore hired as town clerk
Gomez reads letter of resignation to Century Town Council
At the end of the town council meeting Tuesday night, Century Mayor Luis Gomez, Jr. announced his resignation as mayor effective Friday, Jan. 10, citing health reasons.
"As I prepare to step down, I remain committed to supporting a smooth transition and have full confidence that the foundation we built will sustain and propel the town forward," said Gomez. "Thank you for your trust, collaboration and the opportunity to serve this incredible community. With deepest gratitude, thank you for allowing me to serve."
Interim Town Manager Howard Brown recommended the council select an interim mayor consistent with the town's charter.
Council President Dynette Lewis addressed the audience to ask if they was anyone who is interested in being interim mayor.
"I do, yes, I would like to," said Councilwoman Alicia Johnson. "I feel like I am well-qualified for the position and I am willing to do the hard work."
Johnson said she is available and has the management experience that would be beneficial.
Councilwoman Shelisa McCall said she was interested in being interim mayor also.
Councilwoman Sandra McMurray Jackson made the motion to nominate Johnson as interim mayor. Councilwoman McCall seconded the motion. It passed unanimously.
Councilwoman Lewis called for a motion to make McCall interim mayor. The motion died on the floor.
Councilwoman Johnson expressed concern about the seat she will vacate. Brown said he will check the charter regarding the seat.
In other business, in a vote of 4 to 1, the town of Century will hire Carrie Moore as its new town clerk following Tuesday night's meeting. Council members Jackson, Henry Cunningham, Johnson and Lewis voted yes. Council woman McCall voted no.
Moore's starting salary will be $76,000 annually. Moore currently serves as town clerk in Flomaton, Ala.
"This is a direct result of amendment No. 2 that did not pass by the citizens," said Gomez. "It required the town council and the mayor and the administration to publicly throw each applicant's personal information out there for scrutiny and degrading."
Gomez said he thinks it is pathetic that someone who wants to improve their life has to go through that.
