by Mary Wilson, mwilson@jcadvocate.com
The City of Grandview has seen tremendous strides toward
progress over the last several months, including groundbreakings, ribbon
cuttings, announcements and more. Week after week, the City’s elected officials
have been welcoming new businesses and been present at numerous community
activities promoting the great things happening. One alderman has been
noticeably absent.
Ward 1 Alderman Debbie Bibbs last attended a work session on
June 21, while her last regular meeting was on August 9. On Monday, September
12, Bibbs submitted a resignation letter to Mayor Leonard Jones effective
immediately, stating recent health issues require her immediate attention.
According to Bibbs, resignation wasn’t something she
envisioned, but because of her health issues she felt she didn’t have any other
option. She added that there is nothing in place for medical leave of elected
officials.
“I have appreciated and enjoyed the relationships that I
have developed while in this position,” said Bibbs. “I hope our relationships
will go far beyond having worked together as elected persons and staff
representing our great city, but relationships that have developed into
friendships.”
Elected in April 2015, Bibbs became the first
African-American woman elected to the Grandview Board of Aldermen. It also
became the first time in Grandview’s history that three female aldermen were
seated at one time. In 2014, the City of Grandview was seeking a candidate to
fill a Ward I vacancy. With encouragement from friends, Bibbs, a resident for
over 35 years, applied. Although she did not get the appointment, Bibbs decided
to run for the position when it appeared on the April 2015 ballot.
“I’m so thankful and I appreciate the opportunity I was
given to be on the Board and to sit in and be a part of helping move Grandview
forward,” said Bibbs. “I’m very grateful for the opportunity.”
Going forward, according to policy on vacancy, the City
Clerk will accept letters of interest from and send applications for
appointment to qualified individuals to fill the position within a period of
time specified by the Mayor and Board of Aldermen. That timeframe will be
determined soon, according to Jones.
The applications will be reviewed, and after the Mayor and
Board of Aldermen have selected an individual to fill the vacancy, a special
meeting will be convened; the individual will be appointed and will serve until
the next regular municipal election in April 2017.
Wow
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