BY SARAH STEPHENS
ELMORE/AUTAUGA NEWS
A special guest was added to the Elmore County Commission Agenda during their Work Session meeting Monday.
Santuck Fire Chief Tommy Sanford asked to be added to the agenda, so he could speak with Commissioners and show his appreciation for all they have done.
“Santuck Volunteer Fire Department very much appreciates all the assistance that this commission has given all of the volunteer fire departments in the county,” Chief Sanford said. “It has been so much better the last few years and I really do appreciate all you have done.”
Sanford recognized all members and officials with the Commission, and gave a special thanks to Commissioners Kenny Holt and Earl Reeves, who were attending their final official meeting.
Holt will be replaced by Henry Roulette Hines Jr. who won the recent election for the seat. Reeves’ replacement has yet to be determined, as there is an upcoming runoff election between Desirae Lewis and Walter Lacey Nov. 3.
“I know we have a couple that are going to be leaving us, and we are going to miss you. Thank you for all of the time and effort that you have given the county. (The Commission) has provided workman’s comp insurance, communications equipment, and other equipment that has enabled Santuck Fire Department to more quickly and safely respond to emergency calls in our community, while working hard to keep our ISO rating low and to save our residents money on our home owner’s insurance.”
Sanford said that in a recent storm, his department was paged out 10 times in an eight-hour period for service calls, including trees blocking roadways and on houses.
“Yes, Mr. Kenny (Holt) we used that big chainsaw that y’all helped us purchase. It was very beneficial. We may need it again Wednesday night and Thursday. But I hope not. We don’t just respond to structure fires. This morning we responded to assist Haynes ambulance with a person that was run over by his tractor. So you keep that family in your prayers.”
Commissioner Troy Stubbs expressed his thanks for all the volunteer firefighters do throughout the county.
Commissioner Mack Daughtry asked Sanford how long he had been affiliated with the Santuck Fire Department.
“I went to the first meeting about 49 years ago,” he said. “I love it.”
“A lot of people don’t know how long you have been involved with the fire service in the county,” Commissioner Bart Mercer said. “I want to say how much I appreciate what you do. I know the other chiefs look to you for guidance and that is because you have earned their respect. I really appreciate what you have done for the county and for your fire department specifically. Without our volunteer fire departments we would be in bad shape in a lot of areas in our county. When you call 911 if Dispatch does not know who else to call, they call the fire department.”
Commissioner Daughtry praised Sanford for his years with the department and said he is a “shining example of community service.”
