Waters chosen as Interim Demopolis Fire Chief

Vernon Waters, a 25-year veteran of the Demopolis Fire Department, will serve as Interim Fire Chief based on a unanimous vote of the city council Monday night.

Waters replaces Tommy Tate, who retired earlier this month.

“I am thankful for the council’s confidence in me,” Waters said after the meeting. “I promise to do my very best.”

Mayor Mike Grayson asked the council for suggestions regarding the vacant Chief position, and council member Bill Meador commented that the city has historically promoted from within.

He noted that Waters has served as acting chief since Tate’s retirement, and has most recently served as a battalion chief. “And a good one,” said Meador.

The council did not set a timetable for naming a permanent chief.

Also at Monday’s meeting, the council heard City Clerk Sam Gross report that no bids had been received for the Rosenbush Warehouse Building downtown.

Grayson suggested that the city consider re-purposing the building, and asked council members to bring suggestions to the next council meeting.

In other matters, the council:

• Voted unanimously to demolish the burned residence and clean the lot at 609 W. Pettus, and place a lien on the property for the cost of the work.
• Heard an update on various projects from Marengo County Economic Development Authority Director Brenda Tuck.
• Voted to deny public requests to fish in the slough off the Tombigbee River at the port project. The council noted that the area is part of the industrial park and is not intended for recreational use.
• Moved the next council meeting from May 21 to Tuesday, May 26, assuming Rooster Hall is available on that date. May 28 is a fallback date.