Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

By Casey Roberts

Contributing Writer

The Stanford City Council, led by Mayor Dalton Miller, convened for its regular meeting this week, addressing a variety of community matters, including board appointments, the Ethics Board revamp, and preparations for the city’s upcoming 250th anniversary celebration.

Approvals and appointments

The council approved the minutes from the December 12 meeting and made several key board appointments:

• Planning and Zoning Board: Ward Hart and Greg Pettit were reappointed. Hart, who has served as chairman for many years, was commended for his dedication.
• Housing Authority Board: Greg Padgett was reappointed as chairman.
• Ambulance Board: Dr. William Stafford was reappointed, though Mayor Miller noted there is still one vacancy to fill.
• Water Board: Alvie Stafford was reappointed. Council members highlighted Stafford’s extensive knowledge of utilities and his involvement in current projects.

Ethics board revitalization

The council discussed the need to reestablish the Ethics Board, which has not convened in three years. Susan Miller will continue serving, and Katrina Salyers, a local loan officer, was suggested as a new member. The council is seeking one more individual to join the board. Mayor Miller emphasized the board’s importance, noting that its reactivation is a requirement for Stanford to regain “City of Ethics” status.

Community safety and road maintenance

Mayor Miller and the council praised the city’s road crews for their swift and efficient snow removal during recent winter weather. Residents reported that Stanford’s roads were in better condition than those of nearby cities.

Police Chief Zach Middleton confirmed no significant accidents occurred due to icy roads. Additionally, the council discussed replacing a missing yield sign near the old Walmart and improving signage at the People’s Bank intersection. Efforts are ongoing to address these safety concerns.

Stanford’s 250th anniversary plans

Mayor Miller announced that banners for Stanford’s 250th anniversary have been designed and will soon be displayed along Main Street. A public meeting to plan the celebration is scheduled for January 23 at 5 p.m. at the library. Community members are encouraged to attend and share their ideas for the milestone event.

Medical marijuana Update

During the meeting, Mayor Miller provided an update on medical marijuana dispensaries, confirming that no inquiries or plans to establish a dispensary in Stanford have been received. Although statewide licenses have been issued, local developments remain unlikely in the near future.

Other updates and announcements

• The council confirmed that the annual training and staff appreciation event will take place on February 17 at the high school. The event will include sessions on workplace violence, sexual harassment, and active shooter preparedness.
• Tourism meetings remain a valuable forum for updates on city and county initiatives. Residents are encouraged to attend and stay informed.

The meeting concluded with council members reflecting on the city’s history and expressing optimism about ongoing community engagement efforts.

Next steps

Mayor Miller and the council urged residents to stay involved in local activities and encouraged participation in filling open board and committee positions. The next council meeting is scheduled for February, weather permitting.

For additional information on council actions or upcoming events, visit the city’s website or contact City Hall.