By AMBER PATINO
The Bonifay City Council met for its regular meeting on Monday, June 15, which included a special presentation from Waukesha Way, updates on public safety initiatives, upcoming community events, and a fundraiser supporting a longtime city employee battling cancer.
Representatives Emily McCann and Brandi Jordan from Waukesha Way held a special presentation recognizing recent Holmes County High School graduate Morgan Peoples as the first recipient of the inaugural Community Waymaker Award and scholarship. According to McCann, the award honors a student whose plans for the future extend beyond personal success and who demonstrates a genuine commitment to making a positive impact in her community.
Throughout her senior year, Peoples was actively involved in Beta Club, her church youth group, worship band, women’s ministry, children’s church, the Teen Safe Driving Coalition, and Project Graduation. She also served as Senior Class Secretary while maintaining a part‑time job. McCann said those experiences reflect a strong commitment to leadership, service, and community involvement.
“Morgan, your character, your vision, and your heart for serving others embody exactly what it means to be a Community Waymaker,” McCann said.
The council recognized Peoples’ achievement, and she was presented with the scholarship and award by Waukesha Way members during the meeting. McCann noted that this is the first time the award has been given, but the organization plans to continue presenting it annually.
Bonifay Fire & Rescue Chief Travis Cook addressed the council regarding the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program and requested permission to utilize services from JMCM Consulting to assist in writing the grant application. According to Cook, the consulting group has a strong success rate and only charges a percentage of the grant amount if funding is successfully awarded. Cook initially said the fee would be 5 percent if the grant is won; however, the council noted that JMCM Consulting’s documentation lists a 6.25 percent rate. Council members agreed to proceed with the group’s services at 6.25 percent, with the understanding that the actual rate may be lower once confirmed. The consulting fee cannot come from grant funding, but City Executive Assistant Sierra Smith said there is funding available in the budget to cover the cost and that the city retains the right to decline the grant even if awarded.
Bonifay Police Chief Johnny Whitaker discussed the potential purchase of a K‑9 officer for the department. Whitaker said the department is currently utilizing a loaner dog from a K‑9 handler and requested permission to pursue funding for a permanent purchase. The cost is approximately $8,500. Whitaker said surplus funds and possible donations could help cover the expense, and he plans to return to the council in approximately 60 days once funding is secured to request final approval. The council authorized Whitaker to move forward with identifying and securing funding before finalizing the purchase.
City Executive Assistant Smith also provided an update on the upcoming Panhandle Patriotic Celebration, hosted in collaboration with the Holmes County Ministerial Association and powered by the Holmes County Tourist Development Council. Smith shared that city departments—including police, fire, public works, and the treatment plant—are working together to support the event facility by providing safety oversight, grounds maintenance, and cleaning assistance. The free, faith‑based family event will begin at 6 p.m. at the Bonifay Recreation Center located at 313 McKinnon Avenue, and will feature fireworks, live music, food, drinks, guest speakers, and family‑friendly activities throughout the evening.
Smith also shared that the city has come together in support of longtime city employee Sabrina Porter, who is battling cancer. Porter recently celebrated her 30‑year anniversary with the City of Bonifay, where she has spent three decades serving her hometown.
A Steak Sandwich Fundraiser will be held Thursday, July 2, beginning at 10:30 a.m. at Bonifay City Hall, 301 N. J. Harvey Etheridge Street. Meals include a sandwich, chips, and dessert for $15, with dine‑in, carry‑out, and local delivery options for orders of five or more. Proceeds will support Porter and her family during this difficult time.
Community members are encouraged to stop by City Hall or call 850‑547‑4238 to preorder or make a donation. Organizers ask residents to keep Porter and her family in their thoughts and prayers as she continues her fight.
The next meeting of the Bonifay City Council is scheduled for 9 a.m. on Monday, July 6.
Ali Moreland 
Staff Report 