Burn Ban in Effect. All outdoor burning is prohibited in Franklin County.
Ronnie Davis, who has recently been sworn in as a member of the Mount Vernon City Council, has business experience, is committed to serving the public, and has had a lifelong association with the community.
Even though Davis grew up about an hour south of Mount Vernon, a great deal of his family come from the area. Both his father and his eight aunts and uncles were brought up in Mount Vernon, and a number of his childhood memories were formed at Lake Cypress Springs.
Davis said he doesn't have a childhood memory that doesn't include Mount Vernon, and that he loves the town and its people.
The connection to the area brought Davis back after he retired from his career in Dallas about five years earlier. He wanted to serve the community but didn't know how to get involved at first. Once Greg Ostertag became mayor, Davis told him he would be glad to help if a chance came up. When a place became available on the council, Davis decided that the time had come.
Davis has been working in the field of sports since 1991; this has involved him in owning a professional soccer team and in helping to run an eight-team football league. In order to carry out these duties, he had to manage budgets, keep an eye on expenses and ensure accountability—skills which he thinks will be useful on the council.
He said he likes having a budget, enjoys working with figures, and makes sure budgets are met because it matters to him.
Davis attended his first council meeting shortly before speaking with MVNow. Since his appointment came about quickly, he said he is approaching his new role with an open mind rather than a fixed list of priorities.
"If anything needs to be done, I'm ready to do it," he added, "I'm ready to get to work."
Although he considers city finances and spending decisions important parts of his job, his first intention is to hear what residents have to say and learn more about the problems affecting the city.
I'm as plain and unexciting as possible, Davis said. I enjoy the city and the people.
Apart from his work and involvement with city government, Davis likes to go to church, follow the professional sports teams in the Dallas area, and spend time with his family. He and his wife have three sons and two grandchildren, and he sees the grandchildren nearly every day.
He said that he loves being a grandfather and that is where he spends his time.
Davis also supports local student-athletes by showing up at their games, assisting the coaches, and offering help wherever it is needed. Since many of these young athletes visit his sports card shop, he has another chance to build relationships within the community he now serves.
