Jason Bosley is sworn in as Fairfield’s newest Council Member by Mayor Kenny Hughes. (Photo by Nicole Schaefer) 

“It’s an honor and a privilege to get to serve the City of Fairfield,” says newly appointed Fairfield City Councilman, Place 5 – Jason Bosley. “I want to do the best we can to grow our town using our assets to maximize our growth.”

Three Fairfield residents vied for the position, previously occupied by Mayor Kenny Hughes, on Tuesday evening, July 24th. Those constituents were Gary Toothman, Sissy Ivy, and Jason Bosley.

Each were given a few moments to introduce themselves; and then were asked a series of questions before councilmen made motions to fill the spot.

First to speak up was Councilman Place 1 – James Tyus. He made a motion to appoint Mr. Toothman. Councilman Place 4 – Landis Bayless seconded the motion. Councilmen Place 2 – Randy Johnson and Place 3 – Keith Daniels both voted against.

As this vote was tied, it was left to Mayor Hughes to cast the deciding vote.

“I’ve known Mr. Toothman for a very long time,” said Mayor Hughes. “The only reason I am voting ‘no’ is because I would like to see some diversity on this council; meaning, I would like to see a female up here to hopefully provide a different perspective on things.”

Next, Councilman Daniels made a motion to appoint Mr. Bosley and Councilman Johnson seconded the motion. Councilman Bayless voted in favor; while Councilman Tyus abstained from voting.

This majority vote cemented Mr. Bosley’s place as the newest City of Fairfield Councilman. He will finish out Mayor Hughes’ council term, which ends next year.

Mr. Bosley was sworn in at the end of the meeting and will take his seat at the next council meeting, scheduled for Wednesday, August 1st.

Congratulations Councilman Bosley!

During Department Head Reports, Public Works Director Clyde Woods informed the council that the Westwood water had its State Inspection.

“We had a few hits, but nothing major,” explains Woods. “Overall, the inspector said we are doing a good job.”

“Tell your crew that we really appreciate all that they do. We know they work very hard,” says Councilman Daniels.

Police Chief Kenny Bulger explained that the department is short three officers and are currently accepting applications to fill the positions.

Fire Chief Matt Foree presented three bids to the council for a new air-conditioning unit for the fire house. Those bids were from Ballard Company of Fairfield, Serna of Mexia, and Ranger of Palestine.

Councilman asked for two more bids from businesses located inside of Freestone County to be presented at the next meeting for approval.

Set for Wednesday, August 1st at 6:00 p.m. is a Special Called Council Meeting and the first Budget Workshop for the coming fiscal year.

City Council agendas are posted at City Hall, on the City website at fairfieldtexas.com, and on the GO FAIRFIELD app.

Nicole Schaefer reporting