John Gellhard elected Glendale common council president after paper-ballot tie

The Common Council of the City of Glendale elected Alderman John Gellhard as common council president for a 12‑month term following an initial 3‑3 tie and a subsequent paper‑ballot vote that produced a 4‑2 tally.

The council opened nominations at its annual reorganization meeting; Gellhard and Alderman Philip Bailey were nominated for the president’s post. After two rounds of roll‑call votes produced a 3‑3 tie, the council followed its operational procedures and conducted a secret paper ballot. The deputy clerk and the city administrator opened and tallied the ballots in the presence of the city attorney; the result was four votes for Gellhard and two for Bailey.

The vote followed a brief floor statement from each candidate. Alderman John Gellhard said he has served more than 10 years on the council and that he now has “additional time now, to devote to the position,” as one reason for seeking the presidency. Alderman Philip Bailey said he had not previously served as council president and explained that recent changes in his work schedule made him available to serve if elected.

Council members questioned whether paper ballots would remain secret; the city attorney advised that, under the city’s practice and counsel, ballots should include the voter’s name so constituents can know how their alderperson voted. The deputy clerk then tallied ballots in the presence of city officials.

With the result announced, Mayor Kennedy declared John Gellhard the new common council president for the coming year.

The council recessed its business until the election was resolved; once the president was chosen, the meeting proceeded to appointments and routine business.