WR council changing charter

kriner@sunmulti.com

The Warner Robins City Council took the first step Monday to

ensure that the city could not have an 18-year-old mayor or city council member.

The council voted unanimously to approve a resolution

changing the city charter to require a person running for a city council seat

to be at least 21 years of age and a mayoral candidate to be at least 23 years

old.

The residency requirements were also changed as part of the

resolution. They went from three months to the requirement of one-year

residency in the City of Warner Robins. Now that the council has approved the

resolution, it must be sent to the legislature for approval.

The council also made appointments of mayor pro-tem, city

attorney and municipal court judges.

Councilman Paul Shealy nominated Mike Brashear to serve as

the mayor pro-tem, and the council agreed voting unanimously in favor.

City Attorney Jim Elliot was re-appointed into his position

of city attorney. After the council’s unanimous vote in favor, those gathered

in council chambers clapped in celebration.

Fred Graham, Tracy Richards and Bo Adams were appointed as

Judges for the city.

In other business, the mayor and council received a large

sign from Kid’s Journey, a group that assess the needs of children. The sign

signifies the city’s distinction of being named in the top 100 best communities

for young people. The city earned the distinction in 2012.

The council also voted to sell a piece of property located

just off of Moody Road to the Lion’s Club for $1,000. The club plans to use the

property for the handicap park members are building.

Shealy noted that the property went out for open bid and the

Lion’s Club made the only bid that the city received.

“This park will be a great asset to our community,” Shealy

finished.

Mayor Chuck Shaheen swore in a new Warner Robins police

officer at Monday’s meeting as well. Mayor and Council welcomed Scott Welter to

the force.

HHJ News