Two new Ludowici City Council members were sworn in Thursday at the governing body’s June meeting.
District 3 Councilman Jim Fuller and District 4 Councilwoman Kathy Phillips took the oath of office, administered by Judge Bob Pirkle, at Ludowici City Hall. After the ceremony, Fuller and Phillips expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and said they look forward to helping the city continue its progress.
“I’m thankful to all of the people who supported me and voted for me. Now I look forward to serving all of the citizens of Ludowici and helping the city continue to move forward,” Fuller said.
“I’m very appreciative to the citizens for them having faith in me to serve on the city council. Over the last year and a half, there have been a lot of improvements in the city. We see it on our streets, parks and with our water and sewage system. I plan on doing all I can to continue these types of improvements,” Phillips said.
After the swearing-in ceremony, Mayor James Fuller called the June monthly meeting to order. He told the council that Charles Griffin Taxi Service had applied for a business application to begin operation. Fuller said there never has been a taxi company in Ludowici. After a brief discussion, the council tabled the request until city attorney Joe Kitchings could review the application and requirements for a taxi company to operate in the city. Kitchings will review his findings with the council at its July meeting.
Fuller also told council members that the recent application to the state for infrastructure work that includes 140 feet of sidewalk work, 165 feet of drain lines and paving around the police department had been approved. Work will begin shortly.
Fuller provided a financial report to the council, stating that the general fund bank balance is $15,240.14, the water/sewer bank balance is $156,487.32 and the general fund savings are $325,781.19. He said that the city has a total of $2,915.92 in outstanding bills to be paid.
The council approved hiring Jacob Howard as a new police officer at the request of Chief James Rogers.
Fuller, Phillips and Councilwoman Mary Hamilton were the only members present. Mark Chesser and Gwen Davis were not in attendance.