PHOTO: At yesterday’s meeting of the Fort Payne City Council, Mayor Larry Chesser presented former councilman Walter Watson with a, “Mayor’s Day of Recognition” proclamation. (Tyler Pruett | Southern Torch)
By Tyler Pruett, Managing Editor
FORT PAYNE, Ala. — (Scroll Down for Video) At yesterday’s meeting of the Fort Payne City Council, Mayor Larry Chesser bestowed the 2018 Mayor’s Day of Recognition Proclamation on former Councilman Walter Watson.
Watson served twenty years on the city council; first winning election in 1996. Watson was the first African-American city councilman elected in Fort Payne history. He decided to not seek re-election in 2016.
Since leaving the council chambers, Watson has remained actively involved with the Fort Payne community. He has made several appearances to speak on issues at city council meetings since leaving office last year.
Mayor Chesser began the presentation of the proclamation: “The first part of April of each year is set aside as an opportunity for the mayor to recognize someone in their community. And that’s what I’d like to do today.”
Chesser then read the proclamation aloud: “Whereas a day has been set aside as a Mayor’s day of recognition for those involved and concerned with their community, and whereas one individual can have a great effect on the welfare of citizens, community projects, and involvement. And whereas that individual can be publicly and privately be counted on to help, and participate in any case of need.
And whereas he has done so publicly by serving as an elected council member for twenty years. And whereas he has gained the reputation of being a peacemaker and promotes what is right in the sight of God, and has been an asset to this community.
Now, therefore, I, Larry Chesser, Mayor of the City of Fort Payne, in the State of Alabama, do hereby decree the city’s gratitude and confer upon the former councilman Walter Watson, heartfelt thanks and appreciation for being selected as the recipient of the 2018 Mayor’s Day of Recognition honor.”
“And I am truly proud to call him friend,” said Chesser, after reading the proclamation.
Watson spoke briefly after receiving the proclamation: “I just thank you guys; there again, for you guys and what you do. I appreciate every one of you.”
“Continue the good work. It’s an honor to receive this, and if you need me for anything. Just let me know. I’ll be here; I’ll be right around the corner. Keep up the good work,” said Watson.
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