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Godwin discusses mayor's position
By Michael Butler
Tallassee City Councilman Bill Godwin has been serving on the council since 2008. He has served as mayor pro tem since 2016.
The latter positon could put Godwin in a position to remove the pro tem title and serve in a different capacity in place of the mayor.
"I have no aspirations in doing that," said Godwin. "I've been here for 14 years, but we'll see what happens. We're working on Plan B. We always have to work on Plan B."
In the wake of recent allegations against Mayor Johnny Hammock, the appointment of a fill-in is a possibility.
"There are several ways you do that," Godwin continued, "either the mayor pro tem, someone from the council or someone from within the city can be appointed. This is my understanding. If it doesn't happen within 60 days, the governor appoints someone."
There would not be an election for the remainder of the term, which runs into 2025.
"We're focusing on the current mayor in place. He's working hard everyday. Despite all the challenges, the goals we've set for the city are being accomplished."
Godwin stated that he had no idea when a state investigation on reported improprieties would be complete.
"I know people want to know, but I can't make any comments on the investigation. It will get resolved when it gets resolved. It's progressing. I have no time frame."
Hammock is listed in a resolution among other city employees regarding alleged wrongdoing that was declared by the council. In addition, Hammock has since been arrested on a felony domestic violence charge.
"We just hope and pray that things work out for Johnny and his wife," Godwin said. "That's a personal thing. We pray for them."
Last week, the Protection from Abuse Order filed by Hammock's spouse Kim was dismissed in Elmore County Circuit Court.
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Godwin with other council members and mayor George McCain being sworn in for his first term in 2008 |
Regardless of Hammock's place in the headlines of late, it is business as usual in Tallassee, Godwin reiterated.
"I have to give credit to the mayor, the council and city employees. They get up everyday and do their job. We've got great people working with us. It's been hard on everybody, but everybody is working extremely hard.
"People have said, 'I might want to be on the city council. You just go to meetings twice a month.' You have no idea what some of the council has put in, just to keep things afloat. Despite a lot of challenges, we're still moving forward and hopefully making Tallassee what it needs to be." |
