Carthage council appoints Josiah Bayless as public works director, seats Beth King to Ward 4

The Carthage City Council on July 22 confirmed two mayoral appointments: Josiah Bayless as director of public works and Beth King to represent Ward 4 through April 2026. Both appointments were approved by council voice vote.

Why it matters: Filling the public-works director post and a Ward 4 council vacancy restores capacity for the city’s infrastructure programs and quorum for council business and boards. Councilmembers praised Bayless’s recent interim service and welcomed King as a community volunteer and board member.

Details: Mayor Flynn nominated Bayless for public works director; councilmembers commended his performance while serving as interim director and voted to confirm the appointment. The mayor also nominated Beth King (referred to in earlier materials as “Elizabeth King” and “Beth Kang” in the transcript); the council approved the mayor’s appointment and King completed the oath of office during the meeting.

Direct quotes and identification: At the meeting King recited the oath: “I, Beth King, solemnly swear that I possess all the qualifications prescribed… and well and truly perform the duties of the office of council member.” Councilmembers publicly encouraged both appointees and said they expected continuity in city operations.

Discussion vs. decision: Council discussion focused on commendations for both appointees’ prior service and qualifications; formal votes were taken to confirm the appointments. The transcript records the oath and the council’s voice approval; no roll-call vote tallies were recorded in the transcript.

Next steps: Bayless will assume responsibility as public works director; King will serve as Ward 4 council member until April 2026 and participate in committee assignments and council votes.