CorStone President Sam Roberts presented Jimmy Cole with the 2008 Firefighter of the Year award at Monday night’s Greenville city council meeting. Cole has volunteered with the Greenville Fire Department for 22 years, according to fire chief Mike Phillips.

“Even as a volunteer Jimmy is one of those people who could do anything in the fire department,” said Phillips. “He’s always there when we need him, whether helping raise money or out in the field. Jimmy Cole is a man of character.”

Cole also works in the city’s horticulture department as an assistant department head.

Mayor Dexter McLendon commended the choice.

“Jimmy Cole is always willing to help,” he said.

Roberts and his wife Coral have sponsored both a Firefighter of the Year and Police Officer of the Year for nine consecutive years.

In other business:

n The council approved a resolution to accept the old Fortex Manufacturing building located at 520 Thames St. in the form of a deed of gift from John Norman. An official appraisal of the property had declared its value at $200,000.

In November, the city received a land grant of the old Foster Manufacturing building – located across from the Fortex building – from Norman Feinburg.

The value of that property is $420,000. McLendon said both pieces of property would be turned over to the industrial development board in hopes of one day luring more industry to Greenville.

– The council approved a contract with Quality Correctional HealthCare to provide health care for city prisoners while incarcerated in the Butler County Jail. Cost to the city is $2,648.92 per month.

– The council approved a resolution authorizing a funding agreement with the South Central Alabama Development Commission through a grant of $26,047.44. The funds are used to provide supportive and nutrition services for the elderly through the senior center.

– The council approved the following expenditures: $32,435 to Powell Tractor Company for a Kubota M9540 Cab four-wheel drive tractor for the city’s street department.

In announcements:

– City offices will be closed on Thursday, Dec. 25 for Christmas. Garbage route for Thursday will run on Friday, Dec. 26. City offices will also be closed on Jan. 1 for New Year’s Day. Garbage route for Thursday will be run on Friday, Jan. 2.