Accessible government, stormwater and paving key issues
RED BAY — Mayorelect Mike Shewbart said his upcoming term as mayor will focus on paving streets, addressing stormwater issues and ensuring city government is open and accessible to residents.
Shewbart, who will take office Nov. 3, said his immediate priority is developing a comprehensive paving plan.
“I’m going to evaluate all the roads and streets in Red Bay and come up with a plan to send to the council,” Shewbart said. “People will know when their street is scheduled to be paved, based on condition, traffic and location. We’ll also make sure utilities are repaired under the street before asphalt goes down, so we don’t have to dig it back up later.”
In addition to paving, Shewbart listed stormwater and wastewater as top concerns.
“We’ve got some areas that are flooding with buildings taking in rainwater,” he said. “We’re going to address those problems.”
Shewbart said transparency will also be a hallmark of his administration. He plans to publish his phone number, welcome resident calls, and hold public meetings to explain city projects.
“I want everyone to feel welcome when they come to city hall,” he said. “My phone will be accessible. If people have issues, I invite their comments. I want to be open with the council and keep them up to date on all the issues we’re having.” Looking ahead, Shewbart said he hopes to build on Red Bay’s strengths while preparing for growth.
“Red Bay has caring people who take pride in their community,” he said. “We have strong industries here, and we want to let them know we appreciate them. We also want to grow new industries and have the infrastructure in place to support that.”
Shewbart, who has served on the Red Bay Gas Board, said his background will be an asset in city projects. He recalled helping build Highway 24 as a young man and learning the importance of compaction and preparation before paving.
“My goal is that by the end of my term most of our streets will be paved and we’ll have a sound financial base for the city,” Shewbart said.
Council members beginning new four-year terms are Mike Kennedy (Place 1), Jarod Massey (Place 2), Jason Vinson (Place 4) and Brad M. Bolton (Place 5).
The Place 3 seat will be decided in a Sept. 23 runoff between incumbent Herbert Trulove and challengers Jonathon Strickland and Kathryn Cantrell Wilkins.
All terms begin Nov. 3.
