Aaron Leighty was appointed to New Carlisle City Council to fill the seat vacated by Lowell McGlothin.
McGlothin resigned after being elected Clark County Commissioner.
The appointment was made at a special council meeting on Monday.
Leighty is a life-long resident of the New Carlisle area, and a resident of the city for 12 years.
“I’m thrilled,” said Leighty. “It’s an honor to serve the community.”
The first motion before Council was to appoint Don Hall to the seat, but it failed by a vote of 3-2. Leighty was appointed unanimously.
“I hope every decision on council is not this difficult,” said Council member Jim Leathley. He also encouraged Hall to run for a seat in November.
At the regular council meeting on January 17, council passed ordinances authorizing the City Manager to rewrite several bonds. They were issued for street reconstruction, renovation of the Madison Street School and Twin Creeks improvements.
These bonds were authorized by voters several years ago. Interest rates on those bonds are between 4.5% and 6.125%. The new rates would be under 4%
Over 10 years, the city could realize savings of $122,000 in interest payments.
One of the stipulations included in the ordinances state that the city will only go through with the project if there will be savings.
City Finance Director Colleen Harris informed council that 2016 revenue was higher than estimated and expenses were substantially lower than estimated.
She said that expenses were $600,000 under budget, and revenue was $120,000 more than expected.
“The initial figures look good for the general fund,” said City Manager Randy Bridge. “We can now breathe a little easier.”
Shortly after taking office, Bridge had stated that he would like to have enough money on hand to handle any emergency that might occur.
Mayor Mike Lowrey also signed a proclamation making this week “School Choice Week” in New Carlisle.
The next regular meeting of the New Carlisle City Council will be on Monday, February 6 at 7:00 p.m. at the Smith Park Shelter House. The public is invited to attend.