Covington council hears three candidates for interim District 2 seat; appointment set for April 21

Mayor Raymond C. Hunter opened the Covington City Council’s April 14 public meeting to announce applicants for the interim District 2 vacancy and to allow each applicant to introduce himself and answer questions. No appointment was made; the council scheduled a called meeting for 6:30 p.m. on April 21 to make the selection.

The meeting, held in the Council Chambers at City Hall, began with Mayor Raymond C. Hunter reading the legal basis for the session under Code of Virginia § 24.2-228 and reviewing rules limiting remarks and questions. Councilwoman Susan S. Crowder, Councilman David B. Goff and Councilwoman Susan S. Wolfe were present along with City Manager Allen Dressler, City Attorney Mark Popovich and City Clerk Amber N. Berberette.

Michael Green, an applicant for the interim District 2 seat, introduced himself and affirmed he resides in District 2. Green summarized a 42-year career at Smurfit WestRock in maintenance, safety and planning roles and described leadership and communication experience from church activities. He said he would prioritize open communication with constituents, recuse himself if conflicts arise, and consider holding district meetings to solicit resident input.

Milton Helton, an applicant and long-time Covington resident, described prior work with local industry and municipal service and said he wants to represent district citizens and work with Council as a team. Helton said he would communicate directly with residents, including door-to-door outreach, and would take concerns back to Council rather than overstepping staff authority.

Gene Mundy, an applicant who noted family ties to Covington, military service and prior Planning Commission work, thanked the other candidates and said he would focus on collaboration and practical solutions. Questions for Mundy covered infrastructure and planning issues — including water-system needs, infill housing and blight — along with attendance, transparency and handling of potential conflicts; Mundy said Council acts collectively and that operational matters are the City Manager’s responsibility, adding he would consult the City Attorney when appropriate.

Council members questioned each applicant on availability for meetings and events, willingness to run for the seat in November if not appointed, public-speaking comfort, and methods for ensuring constituents feel heard. No formal motions or appointments related to the vacancy were taken at the session.

Mayor Hunter closed by thanking the applicants and announcing that Council would consider the submitted materials and meet in a called session at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, to make an appointment. A motion to adjourn by Councilman David B. Goff, seconded by Councilwoman Susan S. Wolfe, carried with all members voting "aye."