A resolution authorizing the expenditure of funds from Bessemer City Councilman Teco Stephens’ District Five Discretionary Fund Account was recently approved by the Bessemer City Council.
Councilman Chester W. Porter made a motion to approve the resolution, and Councilman Cleo King seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Bessemer Middle School and West Hills Elementary School are two public schools located within District Five.
Councilman Stephens has long been a supporter of schoolteachers and events associated with their profession. He requested that $1,000 be allocated from his discretionary fund, with $500 donated to the Teacher Appreciation Program at Bessemer Middle School and $500 donated to the Teacher Appreciation Program at West Hills Elementary School.
The Bessemer City Council determined that such an expenditure serves a valid purpose by:
- Promoting education as a vital community interest;
- Supporting the recruitment and retention of quality educators; and
- Recognizing teachers through a community-oriented event that benefits the public at large and the general welfare of the community.
The council concluded that the funding would contribute to both the educational community and the overall well-being of the city.
