Defiance council appoints Stacy Kaufman to Ward 3 seat

The Defiance City Council unanimously appointed Stacy Kaufman to fill the vacant Ward 3 seat after receiving statements from Kaufman and the other applicant, Robert Krause.

Kaufman, who introduced herself as a Third Ward resident and former planning commission member, told the council she would be accessible to constituents, would prepare for meetings and would seek consensus when issues were difficult. "I know that I'll vote my conscience and I'm somebody that will look at all sides of something, seek input, and be glad to give people in my 3rd Ward that time of day if they have a question," Kaufman said.

Robert "Bob" Krause, the other applicant, summarized decades of local ties and community service, noting experience in strategic planning and fundraising and saying he would bring a "steady, practical approach" to the role.

After both applicants answered council questions about priorities and challenges for the ward — including balancing residential and commercial interests on the north side — councilmembers nominated both applicants from the floor. The clerk conducted a roll-call vote; the presiding official announced unanimous votes in favor of Kaufman and congratulated her on the appointment.

Kaufman said she will resign her position on the planning commission, as the mayor noted during the meeting. The council directed the clerk and staff to complete appointment paperwork and to follow up about liaison assignments and committee reassignments as needed. The appointment took place during the regular meeting with no additional conditions attached.