Brewton has a new fire chief.

Capt. Jeffery R. Salter was promoted to chief by the Brewton City Council Monday.

Salter, a 16 year employee with the department, will replace the current chief, Lawrence Weaver.

Weaver announced his retirement in September. His last day of service will be May 9.

Weaver has worked with the BFD since 1975.

“We thank you for your many, many years of service,” said Mayor Yank Lovelace to Weaver. “You don’t know how much we appreciate you and your great service to this city.”

Weaver said previously he plans to spend more time with his family during retirement.

A formal retirement ceremony will be held in the coming days, Lovelace said.

Salter said he is proud to serve the community in his new role as fire chief.

“I love people,” Salter said. “I know that’s what everyone always says, but it’s true. It’s why I do this job. To help people.”

Salter said he hopes to announce his plans for the department in the coming weeks.

In other business, the council:

•re-appointed Sammy Weaver and Larry Walker to the city’s industrial development board;

• approved a $48,295 disposition of the state annual trust fund payment. This money is designated for capital improvement projects;

• awarded a low bid of $18,994 to Dyna-Pak Corp. for 160,000 garbage bags. Councilman Pat Poole voted no on the measure, stating he “wasn’t against it, but that I don’t feel the city should be competition with private businesses;”

• approved a lease name change from Burnt Corn Creek and Trail to Low Country Adventures; and,

• approved a liquor license transfer to Acapulco from Orleans Po Boys.