Honorable Judge Rhonda Hardesty conducted swearing in ceremonies for Jemison Mayor Eddie Reed and City Council members Faye King, George Brasher, Robert Morris and Sam Reed before a packed house Monday night.

Council member Danny Robinson of District 2 resigned from the council before taking his oath of office. He told the standing-room-only crowd it was for personal reasons and that he had enjoyed serving the city.

“Councilman Robinson has been a true friend to me and all the citizens of Jemison and has served our city with honor,” Reed said. “He will be missed by everyone.”

Reed said that after speaking with the League Attorneys the council will declare a vacancy at its next meeting. The mayor and council can then appoint a replacement as soon as the first week in December but has 60 days to do so.

Reed added he will work with the council to find a replacement from District 2 to serve out Robinson’s term for the next four years.

“I enjoyed working with Councilman Robinson, and I saw firsthand how hard he worked for this city,” Police Chief Brian Stilwell said.

In other business, the council approved Jemison’s $2.8 million operating budget for fiscal year 2008-09.

“This is a lean budget due to the economic downturn, but it is very sound and will keep the city moving forward,” Reed said.

The council also set its Christmas tree lighting ceremony for Friday, Dec. 5 and the Christmas Parade for Saturday, Dec. 13, at 2 p.m.