The Victoria Town Council welcomed its newest member and the community’s two newest police officers at its Tuesday, July 12 meeting.

Mayor Carol R. Watson presented council newcomer C.H. “Chris” Gill with a lapel pin that all members of the body have.

Gill joined incumbents Sandra V. Jones and Ronald E. Mattox, who were re-elected, among the top vote-getters in the May election. Gill essentially took the seat of Lee Scott, who did not seek re-election.

The town has staggered terms and its other board members — Johnnie Brame, Greg Elam and Kenneth Boyd — were not up this year.

Scott did not attend the council meeting, but Watson noted he was given a cooler of drinks.

“We thought that would be the perfect thing since he’s building a garage,” she said.

In addition, the town’s two newest officers — Greg Wallace and Matthew Gatling — were also in attendance.

“They’ll be on the street to protect and serve our community,” Police Chief Keith Phillips said.

They were also recognized by the council.

Watson said she has long known Gatling and knows relatives of Wallace, “and I’ve heard good things — good things.”

Watson said she was glad the department was back up to five officers, and is grateful for the service it provides.

“With all the things going on in the world today, I’m glad these guys decided to be police officers, and we’re backing you 100 percent,” Watson said.

Meanwhile, Phillips said the police department will participate in National Night Out on Tuesday, Aug. 2 at the town’s park. The Victoria fire department will also participate.