Colbert swears-in new member

“It’s a privilege and a big responsibility, but I’m thankful for the opportunity,” said Patton Power, whose father was once a council member.

The addition of Patton Power gives Colbert its first full council in seven months. She won the seat — vacated in October by Jeff Roberts — in a special election runoff April 14.

Patton Power’s new position came with a key to city hall. Waggoner said the rest of the council would receive keys, too.

“You will be expected to check your mail box once a week at least,” the long-time mayor told them. “I’ve told y’all that for the last 40 years.”

REZONING APPROVED WITH SPLIT VOTE

Colbert leaders approved the rezoning of a residential tract on Seventh Street to commercial, 3-1.

Roger Fortson cast the “no” vote.

The property owner, Allen Roberts, purchased the land with the intention of storing utility farm and cattle trailers, but was unaware the land lacked a commercial zoning.
Roberts assumed it already had that designation since the adjacent tracts are both commercial.

Concerns were expressed about the rezoning during the public hearing.

The land in front of Roberts’ property is residential, and residents had questions about traffic problems mainly.