On Thursday, August 13th, 2020, long-time Flemington City Councilwoman Donnie Smith tendered her resignation, according to a press release issued by City Clerk Jenell Gordon. The release stated that she tendered her resignation to focus on the rescue of innocent animals.

"Ms. Smith is passionate about the welfare of animals in Liberty County, spending much of her free time transporting animals to receiving rescues all over the South East." the release stated. "She works tirelessly to advocate on their behalf and is proud that through the lifesaving partnership between Carpathia Paws and The Underground Tailroad, 711 dogs and cats were saved from Liberty County Animal Control last year alone.  Ms. Smith began supporting Carpathia Paws in 2010, becoming a founding board member and the Rescue’s Secretary in 2014."

Smith moved to Flemington in 1982 and was appointed to Council just a few short years later in 1986 by then-Mayor O.C. Martin to fill an unexpired term.  A short pause of service occurred when Ms. Smith, Directorate of Logistics at Fort Stewart (ret), was needed during Operation Desert Storm.  Ms. Smith resumed her public service with the City and has served continuously since then.  

According to the City’s charter, a vacated seat can be filled by appointment by the Council for the remainder of the unexpired term.  The remaining term ends December 31st, 2021.  To be eligible for consideration, a resident must physically reside in the City of Flemington for at least twelve months and be registered to vote in municipal elections of the City.  If these requirements are met, the Mayor and Council request that anyone with the desire for appointment to contact the City Clerk at 912.877.3223 or at flemington@coastalnow.net for a Petition for Appointment.  Completed petitions should be delivered to City Hall, which is located at 156 Old Sunbury Rd., by September 30th, 2020 for consideration.