Paddock Lake will fill the trustee vacancy – soon

President Marlene Goodson made a motion Wednesday night, at the monthly village board meeting, to appoint Glenda Morey to the position created by Goodson when she was voted in as president last April. That motion received a second from Trustee Chris Bucko. When asked if there was any discussion before the vote, Trustee Terry Burns made a motion to amend the one on the floor.

Burns’ motion, in part, stated that the Village of Paddock Lake Board will accept letters from anyone interested in the position. The board will interview each and select the person to take the seat.

As Burns continued, Village Attorney Jeffrey Davison referred to a village ordinance that states only the president can make a nomination. Burns could make the motion, Davison said, however, “You have to change the ordinance if you want to change the procedure.”

But first, Davison said, the motion made by Goodson had to be acted on. The motion to appoint Morey failed 4-1 with Goodson casting the lone vote.

The main reason for the trustees voting no was they all wanted everyone who is interested in the position to be able to apply for it.

“It is more reflective of fairness, to appoint one sole applicant, knowing that other applicants are seeking the position,” Burns said.

Goodson noted that Morey did not approach her for the position, Goodson made the choice. She chose Morey because she attends meetings and shows interest in the village.

Trustee Kathy Christensen said, “Just because they’re not at a meeting, it does not mean they don’t read minutes and not know what is going on.”

Burns added, “It’s not the proper way to handle it. I do respect the way Marlene did it. I’m trying to stir the pot, trying to get some mutual understanding between the board to move forward in a positive direction.”

After nearly an hour of discussion, the board decided not to alter the ordinance. Burns made a motion to accept letters of intent for the current trustee vacancy until 5 p.m. June 30. The board will call a special meeting within 10 business days to interview potential candidates. After discussing who would be the perfect candidate, the final approval would be an appointment by Goodson.