WOODVILLE – Woodville City Council swore in the winners of last month’s election prior to Monday night’s regular meeting.
Amy Bythewood was sworn in for her second term as mayor, her grandson Braden holding his late grandfather’s Bible. Alderwoman Kelly Dillard was sworn in for her fourth term, as was Mike Cabaniss for his second term on council. Dillard is Alderwoman place two, Cabaniss is Alderman place four.
Municipal Court Judge Sergio Ramos fulfilled his two- year contract to the city at the meeting. Ramos is officially retired from the bench, and passed the gavel to Darla Belt Dear, who was sworn in as the new judge, with her husband Wales Dear holding the bible for her swearing-in.
Bythewood shared via social media these words about Judge Ramos: “I can’t thank Judge Sergio Ramos enough for his service to our city for the last two years. What a huge inspiration he is to us all, as judge, coach, educator, and so much more.” Ramos commented that “I will continue to serve you in whatever capacity”.
Joyce Wilson was selected as mayor pro-tem for another term, and Rebecca Chastain continues on as municipal clerk. Chastain did all the swearing in at Monday night’s ceremony, and she was sworn in Tuesday to continue her duties to the city.
Alderwoman Kelly Dillard, who was appointed to a committee to discuss the adoption of the TNR (Trap Neuter Release) Cat Management Program in the city asked council for $10,000 to get the program started. Kathy Taylor made a presentation at October’s meeting about the importance of the program, and Mayor Bythewood, Dillard, and Alderwoman Paula Jones were appointed to a committee to look at the importance of having this program. Council approved the request for the funds.
City Administrator Mandy Risinger presented for approval next year’s city holidays for all city employees, which total 15, with the addition last year of Juneteenth, and an extra day as a personal day. This was approved. Council is already looking ahead to the parade next month in honor of Martin Luther King, which is slated for Monday, Jan. 20, 2025.
