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Toledo council members discuss vacancy rules as colleagues congratulate new member Matt Cherry and new president Denise Williams
Summary
Councilmembers used brief remarks near the meeting's close to congratulate newly appointed member Matt Cherry and Council President Denise Williams and to question the city charter's 30-day appointment window for filling vacancies, suggesting the matter be considered for future voter review.
Council members took several minutes near the end of the Oct. 28 special meeting to congratulate Matt Cherry as the council’s newest member and Denise Williams as the council president, and to note the procedural mechanics for filling council vacancies.
Councilman Melvin spoke about the charter provision that gives the council 30 days to fill a vacancy and said that, in some cases, waiting for that period might allow a successor chosen by voters to be appointed instead. "We always have 30 days to fill it," Melvin said, arguing that the mechanics of appointments and short-term service are worth reviewing and may be appropriate for voter consideration.
Councilwoman McPherson thanked Melvin for the insight and agreed the charter provision is worth examining, saying it would be appropriate to consider whether voters should have an opportunity to weigh in. Councilman Martinez offered personal remarks expressing support for items on the agenda connected to Saint Francis High School and said he would support ordinances intended to help the school.
Multiple council members expressed appreciation for Matt Cherry’s willingness to serve on short notice and welcomed the new council president. The remarks were ceremonial and procedural; the meeting contained no formal motion or vote to change charter language. The council adjourned shortly after these remarks.
