By NEAL WAGNER / Managing Editor

ALABASTER – Two longtime volunteers who helped shape Alabaster into what it is today earned the spotlight during a recent City Council meeting, as they were honored for their many years of service.

During the Aug. 27 City Council meeting, Alabaster Mayor Marty Handlon presented keys to the city and proclamations honoring Richard Olive and Robert “Bob” Shinpaugh for their dedication to the city.

Shinpaugh served the city for 30 years on the Planning and Zoning Commission, which reviews zoning and development plans and makes recommendations on approving or denying the plans to the City Council. He began serving on the Planning and Zoning Commission in November 1988, and served as chairman of the board for the past 20 years.

“Bob’s coveted board member qualities include commitment, detailed review and analysis of proposals, love for the city and a vision for the future,” Handlon said while reading the proclamation. “The city of Alabaster has been blessed to have a volunteer citizen with his capabilities and dedication, as he spent countless hours reviewing construction site plans and requests for zoning changes.

“Bob faithfully and conscientiously made decisions for the betterment of the city of Alabaster, which contributed immeasurably to where we are today and the success of our community,” Handlon added. “It goes without saying, his physical presence and calming demeanor will be greatly missed among the board members, but we wish him health and happiness in a well-deserved rest from public service.”

Olive served the city for 15 years on the Board of Zoning Adjustments, and was chairman of the board for the past seven years.

“Richard served as a valued member and respected member of the BZA throughout his term,” Handlon said. “He conscientiously executed the duties associated with his role as chairman coupled with the perfect mix of compassion and balance. His quick wit and calm perspective on all matters will be greatly missed.

“We greatly appreciate the important contributions Richard made to the development and growth of our community, and wish him the very best in all his future endeavors down on the farm,” Handlon added.

Handlon said the work the two men did over the past few decades played a major role in guiding the city’s growth and development.

“In my opinion, those two boards are the most important in our city, and they have a lot to do with the growth and development of our city,” Handlon said.