New Richmond council names Scott Grady to fill District 5 vacancy

The New Richmond City Council announced that Scott Grady will fill the District 5 seat left vacant by Alderman Ron Volkert, who stepped down effective Jan. 1 after roughly 21 years of service. Council members heard from both applicants and confirmed Grady will be sworn in before the next work session.

City administrator Noah summarized the application process and told the council it had received two applicants, Craig Scott and Scott Grady, to serve the remainder of the term. Grady, who introduced himself to the council, described a long career in corrections and local coordination of crews with the city and said his priorities would include planning ahead for growth and ensuring fiscal responsibility. "There is a huge infrastructure piece that goes along with the growth," Grady said, adding that he would act as a conduit between District 5 residents and the council.

Craig Scott, the other applicant, described a background in manufacturing and public administration and said he would focus on business development and support for local civic groups and recreational amenities. Council members asked both candidates similar questions about the role of an alderperson and the top issues facing the city.

Following the candidate presentations and questions, the council announced that Scott Grady would fill the District 5 seat. The transcript does not record a formal roll-call vote for the appointment; council members said Grady will be sworn in in advance of the upcoming work session.

The appointment fills the seat for the roughly two years remaining in the term. The council thanked both applicants for their interest.