Two Foley City Council members received special recognition as they wrapped up more than three decades of combined service to their community. Vera Quaites and Rick Blackwell have both served on the council since they were first elected in 2008. The city presented them with resolutions of commendation and appreciation during their final official meeting. Their departure marks the end of an era for the council.

The recognition ceremony took place on October 20 during what would be the last meeting for both representatives. Family members joined Quaites and Blackwell as Mayor Ralph Hellmich presented the resolutions. The mayor noted that elected officials rely heavily on family support throughout their time in office.

Mayor Hellmich praised both council members for maintaining a tradition of dedicated public service to Foley. He emphasized their commitment to putting the city's interests first throughout their tenure. The mayor said the integrity of the council during their years of service was beyond question.

"We're going to miss you guys," Hellmich told the departing members. "You always put Foley first." He thanked them for their years of dedication to the community and its residents.

When addressing Quaites, Hellmich acknowledged her preference for working behind the scenes rather than seeking attention. He said many people don't realize how much she accomplished away from the spotlight. The mayor praised her focus on serving the city and the people she represented rather than promoting herself.

"You don't get out there. It wasn't about you," Hellmich said. "It's about our city and about the people you represent." He added that he appreciated everything she had done to move things forward for Foley.

Quaites thanked the mayor and other officials for their support over the years. She specifically mentioned Wayne Trawick and Charles Ebert III, who will continue serving on the council. She described her fellow council members as family and said she was grateful for the respect they showed her.

"When I came here, you treated me with the utmost respect and love," Quaites said. She added that while this chapter of her life was closing, the friendships she made would continue. Quaites said the other council members had served as mentors to her throughout her time in office.

Hellmich also recognized Blackwell's contributions over his four terms in office. The mayor said Blackwell had been a valuable member of the team. He noted that Foley has earned a reputation as a well-run city throughout Alabama.

"People want to know what Foley is doing all the time," Hellmich said. He credited council members like Blackwell with helping build that positive reputation. The mayor said Foley's success reflects the quality of the community and its leadership.

Blackwell said he enjoyed watching Foley grow and develop during his years on the council. He recalled being impressed by major developments when he first took office. The hospital expansion was one example of the progress he witnessed over the years.

The mayor emphasized that serving on the council requires significant time and commitment. He said people often don't realize how much time council members must dedicate to their duties. That's why family support is so important for elected officials.

Larry Engel will replace Blackwell as the District 4 City Council representative. Timothy "Tim" Lower will fill Quaites' position as the District 2 council member when the new term begins on November 3.

Other council members include Roddy Burkle, who was sworn in as District 3 representative in October. Returning incumbents Trawick and Ebert will also continue serving. The new council will begin meeting in November as Foley continues moving forward.

The resolutions presented to Quaites and Blackwell recognized their years of dedication and service. Both representatives helped guide the city through a period of significant growth and change. Their work contributed to Foley's reputation as a well-managed and thriving community in Alabama.