By Shannon McFarlin WENK/WTPR News Director
Paris, Tenn.—In an emotional farewell, long-time Henry County Commissioner Elder James Travis tendered his resignation from the commission Monday evening. It was a difficult decision to make but it came down to his new home over his commission seat and his new home ended up being just a couple blocks outside of the district that Travis serves.
County Mayor Brent Greer began the meeting by noting, “It’s with great sadness that I have to announce that Elder Travis will be leaving the commission.” Travis’ former home was destroyed a few months ago when a huge tree fell on it and Greer noted, “He has made a tremendous effort to find a home in his present district, but he was unsuccessful.”
Before the meeting, Travis noted the irony that he was on the commission panel that approved the new district boundaries.
In a prepared statement that he read at the meeting’s outset, Travis said, “One of the joys of my life has been to serve with such honorable and noble characters.” Travis served on the commission for 17 years.
The commission set a special election to fill the vacancy in the 4th district and it will be held at the August 21 regular meeting. Anyone who is interested in the position is asked to come to the August meeting to make a five-minute presentation before the full commission, which will then cast ballots for the candidates of their choice.
To be elected, a candidate must receive the vote of a minimum of eight commissioners. Interested persons are asked to bring their resumes to the county mayor’s office.
James Copeland of the 4th District was on hand at the meeting to informally meet commissioners and express his desire to be a candidate for the position.
Greer noted that the new commissioner would be called upon to vote on the upcoming school budget issues and would be invited to attend any work sessions that are coming up.
In other business:
The commission set a work session with the county schools board for 5:15 p.m. August 14 at the courthouse to review the proposed school construction project. No vote will be taken at the meeting.
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