Oakdale council appoints Richard Murdoch to fill vacant seat

The Oakdale City Council voted to appoint Richard Murdoch to a vacant council seat following interviews with seven candidates and a council discussion that led to a unanimous 4-0 roll-call vote and an immediate oath of office.

Council member Gerlach moved to fill the vacancy with Richard Murdoch, and Council member Kettering seconded. The clerk recorded yes votes from Council members Gilbert, Kettering, Patasse and Mayor Barrios; the motion passed 4-0. Deputy City Clerk Anderson then administered the oath of office to the appointee.

The council used a random draw to set the interview order and gave each applicant three minutes for a presentation followed by questions from council members. Candidates who addressed the council included Paola Verluzco; Ranjit Bassi Jr.; a candidate listed on the agenda as John Clark who introduced himself as Sean Clark; Mary Buchanan; Ashley Hankins; Richard Murdoch (who spoke as Rich Murdock); and Elizabeth Moyle. The agenda-listed name “John Clark” appeared on the interview order, but the candidate introduced himself as Sean Clark during his presentation.

During deliberations, council members praised the breadth of experience among the applicants. “The amount of experience that was at that podium, incredible,” Council member Kettering said, reflecting the panel’s view that several candidates brought relevant civic, nonprofit or business backgrounds. The new council member, who has prior municipal experience and a background in construction, said of his appointment, “I am so grateful to be here tonight,” and later, “I’m grateful to serve.”

Applicants discussed a range of priorities during their presentations and the council’s questioning, including fiscal responsibility, community services, affordable housing and strategies to attract visitors and businesses downtown. Several candidates acknowledged they did not know the city’s exact reserve figures but pledged to learn city finances; one applicant, Mary Buchanan, referenced a reserve of roughly $6,000,000 (about 40%). Other speakers referred to reserve estimates near 43%.

Following the oath, the clerk took roll and confirmed five members present with the newly seated Murdoch in attendance. The council announced its next regular meeting for Monday, November 17 at 6:30 p.m.

The appointment fills the council vacancy and will last for the remainder of the unexpired term until the next applicable election cycle, as set by the city’s rules for appointments.