By Staff
Clif Knight, Hartselle Enquirer
Roy Coley will vacate his position as mayor and superintendent of utilities for the town of Falkville on Aug. 1 to become area manager for the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority in Key West, Fla.
Coley said he accepted the position on Tuesday and announced his resignation to the town council at a regular meeting the same day.
"I have a heavy heart about leaving Falkville," Coley said. "I love the community and its people. The town's employees are great to work with and I couldn't have wished for a better council.
But this is an enormous opportunity-a once-in-a-lifetime chance to advance my career for the benefit of myself and my family."
Coley said in his new position he will be responsible for a water and wastewater system serving approximately 50,000 people.
"I began talking with the people down there last February," Coley said. "They made me an offer last Friday and I accepted it on Tuesday.
" I knew if I didn't take it, I might spend the rest of my life regretting it."
Town Attorney Larry Madison said the Council has the option appointing one of its own members or going outside to appoint someone to serve out Coley's term. Jimmy Walker, mayor pro tem, would fill the position until an appointment is made.
He said he will sell the family home and Falkville Chevron, a service station and convenience store at 380 Buster Road and I-65.
Coley, 38, was elected mayor in 2000 and re-elected in 2004. Previously, he served four years on the town council.
He and his wife, Janet, have a daughter. Janet, 13.