Mount Vernon — The Mount Vernon City Council completed its annual organizational meeting and approved a series of housekeeping items, including the election of Mel Severns as president pro tem and the appointment of Zach Sherman as clerk of council.

The meeting opened with a review of the council’s packet and meeting schedule for the 2026–27 biennium. Council affirmed seven standing committees and accepted a change to rename Planning and Zoning to the Land Use and Development Committee. Council also confirmed committee rosters to avoid conflicts of interest.

Council members voted to elect Mel Severns as president pro tem after a nomination and second; the nomination carried on a roll-call vote. The body also approved a policy that previous meeting minutes will not be read aloud at meetings — members will receive copies and vote to approve them instead.

The council adopted a seasonal dress code, establishing "business casual" from October through May with a summer business-casual approach for June through September. The council discussed specifics and agreed to clarify summer standards when the need arises.

Zach Sherman was nominated and approved as clerk of council by roll-call vote. Council discussed a forthcoming need for an assistant clerk while Sherman expects a leave; members asked staff to draft options, including temporary hires or staffing alternatives, and return with recommendations.

Several board and committee appointments were confirmed: a council member will continue on Experience Mount Vernon, a council designee was approved for the Knox County Convention & Visitors Bureau (one-year term), and a vacancy on the Foundation Park Conservancy Board was filled. Council members thanked volunteers who serve without compensation.

The organizational meeting recessed with plans to reconvene at 7:30 p.m. for the legislative portion of the agenda.