The Town of Alexandria seems to be getting back on track after a new city attorney was appointed during a special-called meeting on Tuesday, July 1.

Jerry Jared of Jared & Jared Attorneys in Cookeville was appointed and sworn in at the meeting after the town board of aldermen voted unanimously for the appointment.

Jared will be the third attorney for the town since last November, after longtime Alexandria City Attorney Vester Parsley resigned. Attorney Matt Boss took Parsley’s place, but he stepped down in March.

During Tuesday’s meeting, newly appointed Mayor Jeff Ford described the duties of the city attorney in the town’s charter.

“In our charter in SECTION 3.03 for Town Attorney. The Board shall appoint a Town Attorney, and such Assistant Town Attorneys as may be authorized by ordinance. The Town Attorney, or an Assistant Town Attorney designated by such Town Attorney, shall be responsible for representing and defending the town in all litigation in which the town is a party; attending all meetings of the Board; advising the Board, Mayor and other officers and employees of the town concerning legal aspects of their duties and responsibilities; approving as to form and legality all contracts, deeds, bonds, ordinances, resolutions, motions, and other official documents; and performing such other duties as may be prescribed by the Board,” said Mayor Ford.

“We offered Jerry the same rates as Matt Boss which was a retainer fee of $300 per month and an hourly rate of $200,” added Mayor Ford.

Also at the meeting, another town alderman announced he was resigning. In a letter to the mayor, Alderman Jonathon Tripp announced he was stepping away from his seat on the board.

Mayor Ford read the letter to the board during the meeting, saying, “Dear Mayor Ford, It has been an experience serving the town council. I find that I will not be able to fulfill the term of office.

“I am aware the council is to have earlier meetings starting at 5 p.m. which the board already knows is during my work hours and I would not be able to attend. I do not wish to contest the board on when to have meetings nor do I want to hinder any other member which earlier time would be best.

“I believe it would best serve the council if I officially resign my position as alderman effective June 26, 2025. I want the best for the town and I hope for the town’s success. Sincerely, Jonathon Tripp.”

The Alexandria Board of Aldermen currently includes Mayor Jeff Ford and Aldermen Bobby Simpson, Luke Prichard, Sherry Tubbs, Debbie Fisher, and David Cripps. No announcement has been made for Tripp’s replacement.