Tuesday’s aldermen meeting marked what many consider to be the end of an era &045; John Tipton’s retirement, as of the end of this month, as municipal judge after 28 years in office.

Tipton thanked all city officials for their support &045; and for letting him run the court as he saw fit. Tipton added that his success as judge is due, in large part, to the court’s personnel.

&uot;I judge based on the facts I see in the courtroom,&uot; not on race, the parties’ personnel connections or other factors, Tipton said.

In his last meeting as mayor, F.L. &uot;Hank&uot; Smith said he would most like to be remembered as the person who spearheaded the reorganization of the Economic Development Authority.

Smith, who holds the office until July 1, went on to say he considers it an honor and a privilege to serve as mayor and has offered his support and advice to Mayor-Elect Phillip West.

Sue Stedman, who gave up her Ward 3 alderwoman’s seat to run for mayor, was lauded by her peers as someone who was the consummate professional as chairwoman of the Public Properties Committee.

&uot;It’s truly been a pleasure and a privilege,&uot; Stedman said. &uot;I appreciate the honor (of serving). It has been an experience I will treasure.&uot;