The city of Selma officially bid farewell to the Newton family Sunday with a special reception at the Vaughan-Smitherman House.

Selma City Councilwoman Monica Newton, her husband Wiley and their son Jackson were the honored guests as city officials and friends thanked them for their 10 years of service and citizenship.

The family’s time in Selma has been special for many reasons, Monica said.

“We have really enjoyed living in Selma,” she said. “It’s the place I met and married my husband. It’s the longest place I’ve ever lived.”

The people, Wiley said, make the town a pleasant place to live.

“We’ve certainly enjoyed our time in Selma and made some great friends,” he said. “We really loved our neighborhood and always did what we could to make it a better place.”

As a member of the council, Monica said there have been many positive experiences and challenges. Among the accomplishments she is most proud of are establishing a stronger neighborhood watch program and establishing a neighborhood clinic.

As a member of the council, Monica said she gave 100 percent throughout her tenure.

“I know that I’ve given it my all,” she said. “There are always challenges.”

Though the family is moving to Gainesville, Ga., Monica said they will return to Selma to visit old friends whenever they get a chance.

“I don’t think we are saying goodbye to Selma,” she said. “I think we are saying ‘see you later.’ We have a lot of mixed emotions as we part ways, but we’re excited to move on to the next challenge.”

Newton’s last city council meeting will be tonight. The council has decided to declare her office vacant and a Ward 3 election will be held later this spring.