Central’s New Mayor, Police Chief, Council Began Their Terms of Office on July 1, 2014

On July 1, new city officials were sworn in for the City of Central in ceremonies at the Central High auditorium.

Taking office were:

Mayor Jr. Shelton

Chief of Police James Salsbury

City Council Members Jason Ellis, Shane Evans, Dr. Kim Fralick, Wayne Messina, and John Vance.

All are newcomers to public office except Messina, who has served on the City Council since 2010.  New Council members issued the following statements:

City Councilman Jason Ellis: “It is an honor and a privilege to serve the citizens of Central. During the next four and a half years, I plan to work hard making our city’s infrastructure better. I will work to provide better public sewer access to our residents, which is key to a clean environment and vibrant economic development. In the area of transportation, I will work to improve maintenance of our city streets and ensure proper quality control measures are in place for new streets. I am hopeful that the new city administration will work together for the good of all our citizens.”

City Councilman Shane Evans: “I would like to express my gratitude to the citizens of Central for allowing me to serve on your Council.  My goals for this Council and the City of Central include working to enhance critical infrastructure such as effective drainage, sewer availability, and traffic congestion issues. Public safety and emergency preparedness are also priorities for me. To fund these initiatives, smart economic growth initiatives must be supported and put into action. I believe that moving the City Hall and City Center project through to completion will directly help citizens who need services as well as encourage business development.”

City Councilwoman Kim Fralick: “I am excited to be able to serve the citizens of Central!  I will strive in the next four and a half years to work with Mayor Shelton, Police Chief Salsbury and my fellow councilmen to ensure a thriving and safe city for you.  I will work hard to make sure you are fairly represented by enacting districts, sponsoring citizen – involved committees and being available to listen to your concerns.  Thank you for this privilege and honor!”

City Councilman Wayne Messina: “I am looking forward to the next four years and the continuation of laying the foundation for our great City of Central  The importance of our infrastructure —  roads, drainage, and sewer ­— continue to be a high priority for the lives of the citizens of Central. I shall continue to look out for and protect the rights and needs of our senior citizens. Their needs are paramount to me and I enjoy helping them anytime I can.  I shall continue with the wishes of the people to push for districts and at large City Council. Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Ralph Washington and Tony LoBue for all they have done for Central. Thank you my AMIGOS!”

City Councilman John Vance: “I would like to say thank you for allowing me the opportunity to serve and represent the community in this capacity. I will be working to ensure Central grows in a manner that protects the community we all love. I will also work to ensure we grow in a manner that protects our home values and also protects our greatest community asset… our schools. I have been more encouraged every time our new administration meets to prepare for this transition. We have a great team and I am ready to get started.”