V. Hugh Lewis II/Jefferson Jimplecute
Patricia Finstrom joined the history books on Tuesday evening as she was sworn in as Jefferson’s first female Mayor in the City’s 182 year history.
“Thank you for your support and I wish and hope it continues,” Finstrom said. “We have a neat little town and a few things we need to better, like water, sewer, and streets. I don’t have any other agenda. This should be a fun two years – at least that’s what I hope.”
Outgoing Mayor Rob Baker also thanked the community for the support over the last 3.5 years.
“There has been a lot of support and some pressure as well. Some valid. Some not, but that’s why we’re elected to do the best job we can,” Baker said. “I ask the citizens to continue to support the elected officials. It hasn’t always happened and that’s detrimental. It makes it hard when we get professional complainers come to the podium and further put us down.
“Tino, Alan, and Melissa are the best,” Baker continued. “Make sure you’re paying them, thanking them, and supporting them the most.”
Before handing over the gavel Baker provided a quick update on the Lead Pipe Project. He said the Water Development Board has started th due diligence portion of the program and that the project is a low-interest loan with a forgivable portion. It will fund the replacement of the remaining lead water pipes in town, from the City portion all the way to the homeowner. A study will be being conducted to identify what homes are affected.
Council also swore in returning Alderman Hollis Shadden for Ward 1 and April Taylor Johnson for Ward 3. The Ward 2 seat held by Will Thomas, who did not seek re-election, is currently vacant. Council can choose to either leave it vacant or appoint. This will also be discussed at a future meeting.
In other business the City discussed the possibility of hiring an interim City Administrator, once the job is re-established, by using the Texas First Group. According to Alderman Bubba Haggard, the group has a number of retired administrators and should be able to help the City update the job description and find a permanent Administrator. Council will discuss the position in a future meeting.
Lastly, Council approved the engagement letter from Gollob Morgan Peddy CPA’s to perform the 2022-23 fiscal year audit. Council accepted a proposal from them at the last meeting with a cost of approximately $32,000. The audit should be presented to Council at the July meeting.