Council supports troops

Published 12:00 am Thursday, April 3, 2003

With the U.S. war in Iraq continuing to get more heated by the day, people from around the world also continue to express a myriad of opinions about whether the war should be occurring at all.

However, the Andalusia City Council, during its regular meeting Tuesday night, made its support of the U.S. troops very clear.

Mayor Earl Johnson read a resolution recently adopted by the council which does not necessarily support the war itself, but voices support for the efforts of the troops involved in the current conflict.

The resolution reads as follows:

"Whereas, as Americans we should have an abiding faith and pride in the ideals and strength of our nation, in our democratic processes, and in the men and women who bravely serve our country in war and peace; and whereas, all loyal citizens should stand up and be proud that we are Americans and should make it clearly known to all that our democracy will long endure; and whereas all true Americans should affirm publicly our love of country. Now, therefore, be it resolved by the City Council of the City of Andalusia, that all citizens join with us to pay tribute to our servicemen and women and voice our heartfelt appreciation for their courageous service in the preservation of freedom."

"We have three (city) employees that have been called to active duty and we want to make sure we get a copy of this (resolution) to them and their family," said Johnson. "I would just like to say publicly that if anyone else in our community has a family member (serving in the conflict) and would like a copy of this resolution, just call City Hall and ask to speak to the city clerk or the mayor, and let us know the name and address that you would like the copy sent to."

In other business discussed at Tuesday's meeting, the Andalusia City Council:

* Approved a request to purchase computer virus protection software for $3,230.

* Discussed an ordinance for ambulance services in the city, including an amendment to a business license.

* Heard an update on the city's Spring Fling from Johnson.

* Approved to purchase an ad for $750 in the program of the Gulf Paso Fino Horse Association Show, which will come to Andalusia from April 18-20.

* Discussed a proposed resurfacing of Waits Drive.

* Approved an appropriation of funds for a Service Zone project.

* Approved an appropriation of $988.25 from contingency funds for landscape architect services for the Western Gateway project.

* Recognized city employees with five or more years of service but less than ten.