Florala city council members honored street department employee Willie Goldsmith Monday for 35-plus years as a city employee.

Goldsmith, who was quite emotional during the presentation, announced his retirement last week, citing medical reasons.

Mayor Robert Williamson described Goldsmith as “a tremendous worker” and said plans are in the works to organize a dinner in honor of his dedication to the city.

Councilwoman Hazel Lee said, “We all hate to see you go. You are well respected in the community and have been a great asset to the city. We wish you the best.”

In other business, the council:

Opened bids for a new fire truck, but postponed awarding the contract until the next meeting to allow for further research.

Tabled an appropriation to the Southeast Alabama Mental Health Board.

Approved a resolution to authorize work on the second phase of the city’s sidewalk project.

Set a five-year franchise agreement with Dream Big, a local company wishing to sell concessions on city-owned property.

Appropriated $15,778 for materials and labor for repair and enhancements to a pier on the city-owned side of Lake Jackson. The money will be reimbursed with grant funds once the project is completed.

Declared a 2003 Crown Victoria car as surplus and donated it to the Alabama Probation and Parole office in exchange for drug testing kits and increased patrols of parolees in Florala.

Declared a senior citizen center bus as surplus and agreed to let it out for bids.