Green City Council holds organizational meeting; elects Justin Spate president, Gerard Neugebauer vice president

The Green City Council convened its annual organizational meeting on Jan. 5, 2026, where council members were sworn in, officers were elected and the council adopted its rules for the year.

Mayor Yergan opened the meeting and introduced three judges attending to administer oaths: Judge Todd McKinney, Judge Christine Croce and Judge Joe Lansinger. Christopher Humphrey took the oath of office, saying, “I, Christopher Humphrey, do solemnly swear…,” and repeated the pledge to support the constitutions and the city charter. Councilman Christopher J. Meager (recorded in the transcript as "Christopher j Meager"), Richard Brandenburg and Jeffrey Noble were also sworn in during the ceremony.

With the swearing complete, Mayor Yergan opened nominations for president of council for 2026. A councilmember nominated Justin Spate, and the nomination was seconded. The clerk conducted a roll-call vote; every member present voted yes and the motion carried. Mayor Yergan passed the gavel to President Spate, who then presided for the remainder of the meeting.

President Spate opened nominations for vice president and nominated Gerard Neugebauer. That nomination was seconded. The clerk again called the roll and Neugebauer was elected vice president by unanimous vote.

President Spate then moved to adopt the council rules for 2026. After a second and a roll-call vote, the council adopted the rules unanimously.

A motion to adjourn was made, seconded and approved by roll call. The council adjourned after brief congratulations to the newly sworn members.

What happened next: There was no further business recorded; the council adjourned at the close of the organizational meeting.