GALION — Eric Webber was sworn in as Galion city council president at the beginning of the March 8 council meeting. Webber will finish the unexpired term for Carl Watt, who resigned effective Feb. 28, citing health reasons.
Mayor Tom O’Leary appointed Webber pursuant to Ohio Revised Code 733.31(E): “If the last occupant of the office or the officer-elect, as provided in division (D) of this section, was elected to serve the current term as an independent candidate, the mayor of the city shall make the appointment at the time the vacancy occurs.”
“I’m enthusiastic about Eric stepping forward,” O’Leary said during the meeting.
He went on to praise Watt’s contributions during his eight years on city council. “I worked with Carl more than 20 years. He deserves an immense amount of credit for the ongoing success…He provided a stabilizing influence.”
“I really appreciated working with everyone, Watt wrote in his resignation email. “I also wish to thank the voters for their confidence in the five elections.” He was first elected in 2014 as the fourth ward council representative and was then appointed as council president just two weeks after taking office.
Webber previously served as the first ward council representative in 2013. He works as the East Area Sales Manager for Rumpke Waste & Recycling.
“I appreciate this opportunity. I know these are big shoes to fill,” Webber said.
