By PHOEBE DONALD ROBINSON / Community Columnist

Leslie Whiting represents District 1 on the Columbiana City Council. Whiting is well known in Columbiana for his many years of service working at the Columbiana Post Office, chaplain of the Shelby County Jail, and co-pastor with his wife Teresa at The Church at Columbiana.

Whiting was elected to the council after an eight-year absence. Whiting was on the council from 2000-2004.

Whiting is known as a man of impeccable integrity and strong faith. He has long had an active interest in the Columbiana community. After his defeat in 2004 from the council, he continued to feel his work was not done.

“I felt God called me to run in 2012,” said Whiting. “I am not the same man I was in 2004. I felt I had something to bring to the table.”

District 1 is located along parts of Shelby County 47, Alabama 70 and Shelby County 343; Egg and Butter, Nelson Walker, Buie, Woodlane and Joiner Town roads; Eureka Acres; Industrial Parkway; Reed Drive and others.

“I am concerned about our kids in the community,” said Whiting. “They are our future and need to know how to take care of Columbiana. I want to help them feel part of this community. I want to show them when you want something to go get it, to ask God for it. I want to help our young people to become strong.”

Some of Whiting’s goals for his district are a new recreation park for the youth; upgraded streets; cleanliness and liter cleanup; and a true solidarity — to feel they are a vital part of Columbiana. He will be their voice and mediator on the council.

“I invite my district to come to council meetings,” said Whiting. “I want you to take part in our council meetings and know you are welcome. I want a strong District I and to know your voice will be heard. I thank God for our awesome council and the mayor to work with. I am blessed to be part of this council. Mayor Handley is a leader and I am a follower of good leadership.”