Columbus council confirms three police appointments and approves downtown board seat, library shelving and vehicle graphics

At its Nov. 17 meeting, the Columbus City Council approved several personnel appointments and small purchases.

The mayor submitted Jamie Lavander for appointment as police captain. The council waived the two‑week waiting period required by council rules for that rank and voted to confirm the appointment. Lavander, whose nomination the mayor said was certified by the civil service commission, thanked the council after being sworn in or presented to the body: "I thank you all for approving me tonight," she said.

The council also confirmed Tanner Dreyfus as police sergeant, noting his local background, criminal justice studies at the University of Nebraska Omaha and recent credentialing as a drug recognition expert. Dreyfus told the council he looked forward to the new role.

Joel Pope was appointed as a police officer, subject to successful completion of required tests and training; the mayor said the position is budgeted. Pope thanked the council for the appointment and for the opportunity to complete training at the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center and the department's field training program.

In non-police appointments, the council named Melody Jensen to the Downtown Business Improvement Board to fill an unexpired term, citing her ownership of Mel Hair Salon and involvement in downtown business initiatives.

On purchases, the council accepted a $13,937 quote from Library Furniture International for additional children's library shelving with full reimbursement to be provided by the Columbus Library Foundation. The council also approved a $4,020 reallocation from CIP 26-19 to pay Schiefer Signs Incorporated for new vehicle graphic designs for police community service and code enforcement vehicles.

All items were approved by motion and voice vote without extended discussion.