Published: March 29, 2008 07:53 pm            

VINEMONT: Good things planned for the future

Just north of Cullman, South Vinemont is going in the right direction according to town leader Melba Patton.

Patton, whose father-in-law was the first mayor when the town was incorporated in 1961, said good things are ahead for the burg that runs along U.S. Hwy. 31.

“Our new infrastructure is allowing us to move forward with success,” said Patton. That infrastructure includes a new storm siren and a sewer system completed in 2004.

Patton, 74, added the town has also been successful in garnering grant money to help offset expenses, including more than $23,000 in funding received for the siren.

“We are accomplishing some things,” she said proudly.

However, the Mayor said the real pride of the community is its more than 400 residents.

“Our citizens are the asset of the town,” said Patton.

Another asset, she said is the community’s fire department, which she said is has helped reduce home owners’ insurance rates by an average of $200 per year when it earned a Class 3 rating.

“Only 8 percent of the fire departments in the United States — both paid and volunteer — has a Class 3,” she said about department. “We are extremely proud of them.

Patton said she has enjoyed serving south Vinemont during the three terms she has served as the municipality’s mayor.

Patton said she hopes to continue to serve the city and is therefore running for re-election.

“I have some projects we’re closing out and some new projects that to me are very exciting,” she said.

South Vinemont Appreciation Day, an annual event scheduled this year for May 31, will give citizens and visitors alike the opportunity to recognize the value of South Vinemont.

Patton added she hopes the day is also used to honor American veterans, a fitting tribute considering it will be held during the same week as Memorial Day.

“Without them we wouldn’t have the freedom we have to even have an appreciation day,” she said.

        

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