By Tyler Pruett, Managing Editor
FYFFE, Ala. — For those of us following local politics, especially for an entire county, it can be difficult to give as much attention to each campaign as is deserved. It’s hard enough to track every municipal candidate for multiple towns, but there are many who simply don’t have opponent.
One such candidate, Paul Cagle, is ready to assume the role of Mayor for the Town of Fyffe. Originally from New Market in Madison County, Cagle moved to Rainsville in 1968 to participate in the basketball program at Northeast Alabama Community College (NACC). While living in Rainsville, Cagle joined Rainsville First Baptist Church in 1971.
Cagle met and married his wife, Patricia, after moving to DeKalb County. He was employed by Farmer’s Tel Communications for 41 years, retiring in as transmission supervisor in 2009.
In his last years employed by Farmer’s Tel, Cagle started a cattle farm in Fyffe, which he presently operates. Cagle and his wife moved from Rainsville to Fyffe 8 years ago. Cagle has served the last four years on the Fyffe Town Council, and served as mayor pro tem.
“I’m going to serve the town and the residents of Fyffe to the best of my ability, promote industry, and support the present industry we have,” said Cagle, after being asked what to expect from his first term as mayor.
Last week, Fyffe held it’s annual “UFO Days,” and even though Cagle won’t officially become Fyffe’s new mayor until November, he was out helping to support his town.
“UFO Days was very well attended. The weather attempted to be threatening, but it passed over. We had a good turnout. The weather was cooperative. We did have some hot air balloons go up,” Cagle said when asked about the event.
“We had great entertainment. We had good turnout. We had activities for the children, activities for all involved, from music to pony rides,” he added
“We have a very good police department that’s fully staffed. We provide protection around the clock. Chief Dale Manning is a good leader,” Cagle said. “We have a good fire department with Chief Nathan Nail. They both are knowledgeable of grants, and are able to research them needed for their departments.”
“Fyffe has a relatively new fleet of police vehicles, but we are attempting to replace one of our fire engines,” Cagle added.
When asked about new building projects he’d like to see the town undertake, Cagle said, “We are in the process of applying for a grant that we might have a splash pad that we can add to the town park.”
“Currently most of the grants available require a significant contribution from the community to qualify,” said Cagle. “Presently, we are in good financial shape thanks to the current mayor and council. We should be able to move forward on any grants that are needed.”
“Thank you to the residents of the Town of Fyffe for allowing me to serve as councilman for the past four years,” Cagle said.
Congratulations soon-to-be Fyffe Mayor Paul Cagle! The Southern Torch looks forward to covering your future term and the Town of Fyffe!
