Todd Campbell

Mayor Phil Fawcett and the six members of council went into executive session for nearly an hour to discuss personnel issues in the police department.

Shortly after the executive session, council member Jennifer Ganson read Campbell's resignation letter.

Following discussion, councilman Chuck Bertschman made a motion to accept the resignation with regret. A second motion was made by Susie Smithers.

The resignation came with mixed reaction.

Council members Gloria Armstrong, Bertschman, and Smithers voted yes, but fellow members Gary Comer, Sue Walls, and Ganson voted no.

Following the tie, Mayor Fawcett cast a yes vote to break the tie.

News Director Bill Tipple spoke with Fawcett Thursday afternoon.

While the mayor declined to reveal specifics, he said a "personality conflict" led to the chief's resignation. 

Campbell was the chief for just over eight months.

In his resignation letter Campbell said, "I have been undermined in my function as chief of police by the mayor and others that are supporting him."

He said that kind of work climate led to this week's resignation.

Upon council's recommendation, the mayor appointed Sergeant George Piersall as the acting police chief until further notice.

Council unanimously approved his appointment.

Village leaders also passed a motion to adjust Piersall's salary to the appropriate pay scale.

Finally, council members passed a resolution to advertise the bids for the New Water Tower Project.

DeGraff Village Council will meet again on Tuesday, May 20th at 7 p.m. in the municipal building.