The South Bend Common Council appointed attorney Bob Palmer as the council attorney during its organizational meeting, with the city clerk calling a roll and the council recording seven ayes and one abstention.

The appointment followed a motion that was made and seconded; the clerk then called the roll. The clerk reported a tally of seven ayes and one abstain, and the council announced that Bob Palmer had been appointed as counsel.

The vote was taken by roll call. According to the meeting record, Council member Troy Warner, Council member Bolden Simpson, Vice President Thomas Morgan, Council member White, President Lee, Council member Neskotsky, and Council member Sharon McBride registered aye votes. Council member Doctor Davis recorded an abstention. The clerk initially stated "I have 7 ayes and 1 abstain," and the council confirmed the appointment.

The meeting also included brief remarks thanking outgoing leadership. Outgoing Council President Sharon McBride thanked the council and constituents for the opportunity to lead for the past three years, saying, "It has been a pleasure to serve." Vice President Shelly Naskowski expressed appreciation for working with McBride and said she was grateful for the chance to serve the Sixth District and the council.

The presiding officer closed the organizational meeting with a statement about starting the new year in the right way and then adjourned the meeting.

Votes at a glance: Bob Palmer — appointment; outcome: approved; tally: 7 ayes, 1 abstain.