The Bellefontaine City Council met for the final time in 2023 and bid farewell to two council members and the current mayor. Peter DeSomma, who is retiring, and Mick Lile who was defeated in the November election were honored along with 2-term mayor Ben Stahler for their years of faithful service to the citizens of Bellefontaine.
Mayor Stahler discusses being honored by the council:
In his report to the council, Mayor Stahler recommended that Kelli Bader be approved for the open seat on the Civil Service Commission that is being vacated by Joan Haushalter, who is retiring. Council agreed with the recommendation and Bader will serve a three-year term.
Service Safety Director Wes Dodds told the council that moving the Christmas festivities a week later proved to be a great decision as the parade was very well attended. He mentioned the police and fire departments as well as the street department for their efforts to make the event happen.
Bellefontaine Parks Superintendent Kris Myers told the council that the winter sports numbers are up over last year. Additionally, the winter walking program is slated to begin on January 2 at the Bellefontaine Elementary School. For information about the program, click here.
Several ordinances were adopted including one resolution which would allow a levy to be placed on the ballot for the March primary election. Parks Superintendent Myers talks about the levy:
Many of the ordinances adopted involved compensation for various city departments including the council and other elected officials. The final three resolutions were resolutions of acknowledgment and thanks to council members DeSomma, Liles, and Mayor Stahler.
