The Opp City Council on Monday announced the replacement for former fire chief Joel Williams, who retired in November after 11 years at the post.

Cory Spurlin, an Opp native and 23-year veteran of the Opp Fire Department, was officially named as the new chief during Monday’s regular city council meeting.

“We are very proud to have him,” Opp Mayor John Bartholomew said of Spurlin. “He’s going to do a great job for us.”

Spurlin said he is excited about serving the people of Opp in his new position.

“I’m honored to take it,” he said. “I’ve been with the Opp Fire Department since 1990, and I’ve been a full-time, career fireman since 2007. I worked my way up to captain, and now I’m happy to take this position.”

Spurlin said Williams left big shoes to fill after serving on the OFD since 1988, and as fire chief since 2002.

“It’s just a real honor,” he said. “I love Opp, and maybe I can make a difference.”

In other business, the Opp City Council approved the transfer of a liquor license for The Copper Still Wine and Spirits from George S. Hammer to Caleb A. Norris.