Paul Walton is Mayor of the City of Hull, a resident of the small Madison County community since 2007, Walton is the first African American for the city. He spoke with WUGA about his experience.
"I became a city council member in 2008 and was the first black council member. Took a break for a while to raise my children, I came back, and I was elected mayor in 2019. It really didn't dawn on me as being the first black mayor of my city. It's been wonderful."
Walton says just like every other mayor in the nation, he and other city leaders had to adjust to challenges posed by the pandemic.
"We held a COVID-19 care package giveaway. We were glad we were able to provide that, and it was so surprising to see so many people that were in need."
Mayor Walton says aside from current challenges; he has also taken part in many positive experiences, especially when it comes to area schools.
"I was invited to several schools throughout Madison county to read to students. I would be honored and happy to come out to help encourage students around the county and anywhere that I'm invited."
You can hear more from our conversation with Mayor Walton on Athens News Matters.