Dateline: June 1, 2006

Clarendon aldermen name new leaders

By Roger Estlack, Clarendon Enterprise

Alderman Mark White was sworn in as Clarendon’s new mayor during last Tuesday’s regular city meeting.

The former mayor pro-tem stepped up to preside after Mayor Tex Selvidge presented his resignation part way through the meeting as had previously been announced.

“It’s time for me to ride off into the sunset,” Selvidge said. “Working with y’all has been the biggest enjoyment for me.”

White conducted the meeting as the board accepted Selvidge’s resignation with regret, and each member expressed his or her appreciation for his service.

Alderman Tommy Hill nominated and the board elected Alderman Michael Tibbets as the city’s new mayor pro-tem. Then Tibbets presided briefly as the board nominated and elected White to succeed Selvidge, and White received the oath of office.

A reception for Selvidge will be held this Friday, June 2, at the Burton Memorial Library at 9 a.m.

In other city business, the board conducted a public hearing on property at 719 W. Sixth Street, but there were no comments from the public.

Aldermen White, Hill, and Janice Knorpp took the oath of office prior to Selvidge’s resignation.

Kyle Hill addressed the board concerning water service in the south part of town. He said his new tap is clear but that some of his neighbors have complained of having brown water for over a year. A grant might pay to have those lines replaced.

Roger Estlack addressed the board regarding the West Texas Press Association convention this July and requested funds from the Motel Bed Tax. He said the funds would be used to sponsor a WTPA night at the Sandell Drive-In, and the board voted 4-0-1 in favor of this sponsorship up to $750. Alderman Tibbets abstained.

Laura Paul addressed the board concerning law enforcement and animal control issues. The board advised her to talk with the sheriff about possible criminal activity and said the city will have the animal control officer see about a neglected dog in her neighborhood. She also expressed concern about a dilapidated building, and the city will have the fire marshal check this structure.

The board met in closed session for 12 minutes to discuss a personnel issue but took no action afterward.

The board will consider filling White’s vacant alderman’s position next week.