Othello appoints newest councilmember

OTHELLO — Charles Garcia was appointed as the newest member to the Othello City Council.

Garcia was appointed to the position vacated by John Reneau during the council’s last meeting.

Reneau left the council because he was moving out of Othello and would no longer be eligible for the seat.

Garcia was one of four people hoping to be appointed as a council member. Other applicants included former councilmember Eleanor Brodahl, Robert Guerrero and former mayor E.R. Kelley.

At a previous council meeting, councilmembers questioned applicants about their goals and why they want to run.

During the last meeting, candidates were asked a final question before a decision was made.

Councilmember Ken Johnson asked them to explain what their priorities for the city would be if chosen.

Brodahl said her first priority would be to get information about how much water is available to Othello.

Garcia said improving Main Street and beautifying the area to attract tourism is important.

Guerrero said he agreed with Garcia, adding the events in the city should be promoted more.

Kelley said it’s important to ensure infrastructure is adequate to support growth, giving law enforcement what they need to combat crime and knowing how much water is available to Othello are top priorities.

There were no other questions and council held a 15 minute executive session to discuss the qualifications of the candidates.

Once the executive session concluded, Councilmember Dan Dever motioned to nominate Garcia. Councilmember Genna Dorow seconded. Councilmembers Dever, Dorow, Johnson and Councilmember Marc Spohr voted in favor of Garcia.

Councilmember Ken Caylor and Mark Snyder did not vote.