Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Roderick Burkle has joined the Foley City Council as the District 3 representative. He was sworn in to fill the remainder of a vacant term. The seat opened after the death of Councilman Richard Dayton. City officials said the appointment covers the final month of the current term.

Burkle took the oath of office on Monday, Oct. 6. Dayton died on Aug. 21. Foley municipal election winners from August are scheduled to take office when the next term begins on Nov. 3. Burkle was the only qualified candidate for the District 3 seat in the 2025 election.

The council appointed Burkle to serve the short period left in District 3’s current term. His swearing-in allows District 3 to have representation until the new term begins. The city said this maintains continuity for residents. Burkle’s wife, Terry, held the Bible during the ceremony.

Two incoming council members will take office in November as part of the regular transition. Tim Lower was elected to the District 2 seat. Larry Engel will become the District 4 representative. They are scheduled to begin their terms on Nov. 3.

Two current council members also return for new terms beginning in November. Wayne Trawick was re-elected in District 1. Charles Ebert III was re-elected in District 5. Mayor Ralph Hellmich will also begin a new term after being unopposed for re-election.

Burkle is a lifelong Foley resident with deep ties to the community. He worked in telecom engineering before returning to Foley to join Gulf Telephone. He served on the Foley Volunteer Fire Department for 25 years as a firefighter and officer.

His city service includes eight years on the Foley Planning Commission. He currently serves on four city boards and the Foley Public Facilities Cooperative Improvement District. City officials noted his experience with planning and public facilities.

In 2016, Burkle earned his Alabama Real Estate License. He added his Alabama Brokers License in 2024. The combination of public service and business experience was cited in his background.

City leaders said the appointment helps ensure District 3 residents are represented during meetings this month. The council emphasized a smooth transition leading up to the start of the new term. Routine city business will continue during the changeover.

Burkle’s immediate duties include attending council meetings and engaging with District 3 constituents. He will step into the full term after Nov. 3 with other newly seated members. The city plans to follow standard procedures for the swearing-in events.

The council acknowledged the service of the late Richard Dayton. Officials recognized his contributions to District 3 and to the city. Dayton’s term was cut short by his death on Aug. 21.

Residents can expect continuity in city services and representation. The staggered leadership changes are a regular part of Foley’s municipal cycle. The city communicated the timeline to keep the public informed.

The Foley City Council continues to meet and conduct business under the city’s schedule. New and returning members are preparing for the next term. The mayor and council plan to address ongoing projects and priorities.