Kernersville’s Board of Aldermen gathered Tuesday evening for an organizational meeting that mixed ceremony, transition, and several pieces of important town business.

While the meeting centered on administering oaths of office to the recently elected board, members also voted unanimously to honor the late Alderman Joe Pinnix by renaming the dog park at Ivey Redmon Sports Complex in his memory.

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The resolution, introduced at the start of the public session by Mayor Dawn Morgan, was approved without dissent.

“Madame Mayor, it would be my honor to approve this resolution,” declared Alderman Chris Thompson.

Reading from the proclamation, Morgan noted that Pinnix “proposed and vigorously supported the establishment of a second dog park at Ivey Redmon Sports Complex” and was “dedicated to the care and well-being of animals.” 

The mayor noted that he was fond of taking his own dogs to what is now called the Joseph ‘Joe’ L. Pinnix Jr. Memorial Dog Park.

Presenting the proclamation to his widow, Kay Pinnix, Morgan stressed that the couple — jointly named the Kernersville Chamber of Commerce’s 2023 Citizen of the Year — “have contributed so much” to the community.

Recognizing outgoing Alderman Barrow

After unanimously voting to accept the election results, the board turned to a resolution of appreciation for John Barrow as his service on the board came to an end after two consecutive two-year terms.

Morgan read that the town “has been fortunate to have had the services of Mr. Barrow, who has provided leadership and rendered good judgment for the benefit of all the citizens of Kernersville,” going on to recognize him for “governing with integrity and compassion.” 

Barrow took the opportunity to thank his colleagues and staff for their support, saying that he had enjoyed his time at Town Hall and learned a lot in the process.

Describing Kernersville as “probably the best town in the state of North Carolina,” Barrow credited town staff — including police and fire officials — for their continuing hard work and cooperation.

Judge Morgan administers oaths

The meeting closed with the swearing-in ceremony led by Superior Court Judge Eric Morgan, who called the duty one of his favorites.

He said the moment provides a meaningful moment for reflection on “commitment to service to a community” and on a “fundamental principle of our democracy.”

In addition to Morgan and Thompson, returning aldermen J.R. Gorham and Bill Apple took their oaths, joined by the board’s two newest members: Sarah Jane Sabanis and Randall Pegram.

Thompson, who served as mayor pro tem on the previous board, nominated Gorham to take on the role, and Apple seconded the motion. 

The newly seated board will hold its next meeting on Tuesday. Click here for the agenda and additional details.

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