The city is advertising for applicants interested in finishing out former Ward 1 Councilman John Spain’s term, which will end in October. Spain, who has been arrested twice since the Sept. 13 City Council meeting, was charged with misdemeanor assault and a misdemeanor violation of Anniston’s council-manager form of government. He resigned his seat as part of a deal to drop the charges.
To be eligible for the council seat, an applicant must be a registered voter living in Ward 1, said Don Hoyt, city manager. The applicant needs to drop off a resume at City Hall in care of the city manager by noon Wednesday.
Mayor Gene Robinson said he expects quite a few applications.
This is the second time in the last month the council has had to advertise for applicants for an elected position. Board of Education member Richard Hooks died in October, placing on the council the responsibility of appointing a new member. The council received 10 applications for that position.
“I think we’re going to get a few more than we did for the board appointment,” Robinson said. “I can already count six or seven applications in my head already that’s coming, people that’s told me they’re going to apply.”
Robinson said when he reviews the resumes, he will be looking for experience serving in the public arena, either on a board or in an elected office or some other type of city work. He also will be looking at the education level of the applicants. He would expect at least a high school diploma from applicants, he said.
Robinson’s advice to hopeful applicants — just go for it.
“Drop back five yards and punt,” Robinson said with a laugh.
Star staff writer Laura Camper: 256-235-3545.
