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Joe P. Asher

Staff Writer

The Cumberland City Council has sworn in a new member.

During a recent meeting, the council faced the task of filling the seat left vacant by the recent death of Norma Bowyer, a longtime member. Bowyer passed away on Aug. 6.

Mayor Carl Hatfield reminded the council of the likely candidates.

“I think there’s three candidates, unless you have anymore than the three we know of. That’s Jerry Gilliam, Norma Dobos and Leslie Bush,” said Hatfield.

After some discussion, Hatfield left it up to the council to decide what process to use in choosing the new member.

“You’re the council — you can do it the way you want to do it,” said Hatfield.

Council member Charles Raleigh gave his assessment of the candidates.

“I talked to Jerry (Gilliam) for a little while, but Jerry’s kind of busy,” said Raleigh. “Leslie’s been at all these meetings and she’s got a good idea of what’s been going on the last four months.”

Raleigh nominated Leslie Bush.

“Are there any other nominations?” asked Hatfield.

Council member David Dixon nominated Norma Dobos for the position as well.

According to Dixon, he would prefer a candidate that was not running for council in the upcoming election.

“Since we’re talking about appointment and selection I feel like I can say this,” said Dixon. “I have nothing against any of the other people that’s running for council. We only have three that seem to be interested. I feel like if there was someone else interested that wasn’t on the ballot that’s who I would probably support for the open seat because I feel like it gives people advantages over the other candidates.”

Hatfield clarified the process the council decided to use in making their choice.

“The first one that receives a majority vote is elected,” said Hatfield.

In a roll call vote, the council chose Bush to fill the vacant seat.

Hatfield then swore in the new council member.

Bush will serve on the council until Dec. 31, at which time a newly elected council will begin duties.

Reach Joe P. Asher at 606-573-4510 or jasher@heartlandpublications.com