Walters

MEIGS, Ga. — The monthly Meigs’ City Council meeting started on an unusual note — a resignation. 

Mayor Cheryl Walters resigned from the small Thomas County town’s top spot. 

“Ladies and gentlemen, I want some peace,” Walters, who is recently widowed, said. 

Walters told council members and the audience that she hopes the current council members will get together and teach one another. 

“Find someone who is willing to learn how city government works,” she said of the future mayor. 

Walters added, “I want to thank you for all the support.” 

After issuing her resignation, Walters exited the meeting and Mayor pro tem Dorothy Wimes presided over the meeting. 

The voting procedure for the meeting was questioned as only four council members were present for the meeting. 

“If it’s a major item, it is going to be a unanimous vote,” City Attorney Tom Lehman said. “If the council is acting as city manager, it is going to take three votes.” 

Prior to her resignation, Walters was in the mayor’s seat for close to six months.  

Sworn in September 2016, Walters ran uncontested in a special election to fill the reminder of recalled mayor Linda Harris’ term.  

According to the Meigs’ charter, if the mayor or a council member’s seat becomes vacant, the council can conduct a special election to fill the vacancy of the unexpired term. 

The charter further states, “if such a vacancy occurs within 12 months of the expiration of the term of office of the mayor or any councilman, said vacancy in office shall be filled by appointment by the remaining members of the council; provided, however, that only a councilman may be appointed as mayor.” 

Less than 12 months remains on the unexpired term for the city’s mayor. 

Six members remain on the council.

The next election is scheduled for November 7, 2017. 

Reporter Jordan Barela can be reached at (229) 226-2400, ext. 1826.