The Phil Campbell City Council has a new face – that of Rodney Kuykendall. Selected during the Sept. 27 meeting, Kuykendall was officially sworn into office by Franklin County Probate Judge Barry Moore during the council’s Oct. 4. meeting.

In taking the oath of office, Kuykendall solemnly swore “to support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of Alabama,” as well as “to faithfully and honestly discharge the duties of the office” to the best of his ability.

“I’ve never sought out a leadership role,” explained Kuykendall in his letter of interest, “but have always been assigned or promoted to a leadership role. I will always step up when needed.”

Kuykendall fills the seat left vacant when Jeremy Kastberg resigned Aug. 17. Kuykendall will serve the remainder of Kastberg’s term, which expires Oct. 31, 2025.

Kuykendall said while he has limited political experience, what he does have is the respect of his co-workers, many of whom are Phil Campbell residents. “I look forward to working with the other members to improve the community and, hopefully, bring more commerce to the area,” he added.

In his letter of interest, Kuykendall explained his background includes working in drafting and design since 1989, as well as serving as an engineer for Tiffin Motorhomes. He is the current drafting supervisor for FMI, a sister company to G&G Steel, and he oversees and manages the drafting, design and programming for Southeast Commercial Fabricators.

McQuary said he welcomes Kuykendall to the position. “We’re excited to get him on the council, and we look forward to working with him,” he added.

In other business, the council approved an ordinance opposing the sale of items that can be used for illegal drug use.

PHIL CAMPBELL ARTS AND HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Phil Campbell town clerk and magistrate Virginia Burks announced the Phil Campbell Arts and Historical Society is sponsoring a bean dinner Oct. 20 from 2-4 p.m. Plates are $8 each and include white or pinto beans or a mix, as well as cornbread, onion and a dessert. They will be picked up from the Phil Campbell Rescue Squad. Tickets can be purchased at Phil Campbell City Hall. Funds raised will go toward the purchase of a building for the society.

The Phil Campbell Arts and Historical Society will also hold its second annual Christmas Bazaar fundraiser Nov. 5, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Phil Campbell Community Center. For booth information, call 256-810-4572.

MOVIE IN THE PARK

The council announced there will be a movie screened in town park Oct. 29, “The Adventures of Ichabod Crane and Mister Toad,” a Disney classic.

Popcorn and drinks will be available for purchase. Those wishing to do a trunk or treat can set up starting at 6 p.m., and the movie will begin at 8:00 p.m.

Attendees should bring their own chairs and blankets.

VFW

Eric Reason announced members are being sought for the local Veterans of Foreign Wars group.

“If we can’t get enough members, they’re probably going to suspend or disband it,” said Reason.

Those interested in more information can contact Reason or the VFW in Russellville.

The next meeting of the Phil Campbell City Council is scheduled for Oct. 19 at Phil Campbell City Hall. The work session starts at 6:30 p.m., and the regular meeting follows at 7 p.m.