By Michael Butler

Charles Blalock served on the Tallassee City Council from 1987-2016. He attended Monday night’s swearing in of the new mayor, council and school board at City Hall.

“Look at this crowd tonight. This is the only time you’re going to see smiling,” he quipped. “Don’t take criticism to be something negative. Sometimes criticism can help you.”

The job as a public servant does require some thick skin, but the 2025 administration is ready to take on the challenge.

“I’m thrilled to be able to serve,” said new council member Sarah Jones. “You have an opportunity to make the difference. That’s what I see as the role of the city council.”

Jones and Easterling Carpenter are the two new faces on the city council.

“Tallassee is a nice place,” said Carpenter. “I’d like to be a part of what makes it better.”

Newly elected mayor Joey Wiginton led the meeting after being sworn in by Elmore County Circuit Judge Patrick Pinkston.

“‘I’m excited about working with these great people here,” Wiginton said. “People are ready to see Tallassee grow. We’ve got a lot of things that we need to do, and we’re going to do them.”

Wiginton’s sons Barry and Casey opened and closed the meeting with the invocation and benediction. It was a family affair with numerous Wiginton family members in attendance including grandchildren with deputy mayor badges to commemorate the occasion.

After the swearing in ceremony, appointed positions were voted on. Whitney Pitchford was approved as city clerk. Todd Buce was approved as director of public safety. Councilman Bill Hall was named mayor pro tempore. John Smith of Balch and Bingham was appointed city attorney. Ashleigh Hughes of Hughes Law Firm was appointed public defender. James Garner was named supervisor of utilities.

Blalock had one more bit of advice for those signed up for the next four years.

“Don’t take your position for granted. You guys have got a big responsibility. These people here are relying on you.”

New Administrations

Mayor:
Joey Wiginton

City Council:
Ward 1: Carpenter Easterling
Ward 2: Linda Mosher
Ward 3: Damian Carr
Ward 4: Bill Hall
Ward 5: Terrel Brown
Ward 6: Sarah Jones
Ward 7: Fred Randall Hughey

School Board:
Ward 1: Eric Watson
Ward 2: Heather Johnson
Ward 3: Brandi Clark
Ward 4: Nathan Bridgman
Ward 5: Melanie Goodman
Ward 6: Heather Hawkins
Ward 7: Galerie Wilson