Keokuk, IA – The newest member of the Keokuk City Council says she is willing to learn and is ready to help the city grow and succeed.
Karole Smith's first chance to represent the 6th ward will be this week's workshop.
She was unanimously appointed to the post during last night's special meeting.
Smith, who has lived in Keokuk for nine years, says she is someone who will thoroughly study the issues before making a decision.
Smith was one of two applicants for the post.
There are more than three years still remaining in the 6th ward term.
Smith, though, will only serve until the next city election: November of 2009.
At that time, an election will be held to fill out the final two years.
Smith says she will run to keep the seat.
Residents can still call for a special election.
*You can hear more with Karole Smith by clicking the audio link above.*
*Additional Information*
- The council asked about 15 questions during the 70 minute Q&A session for Smith and Dwight Handyside.
- An initial consensus vote showed five aldermen in favor of Smith and two in favor of Handyside.
- The council eventually approved Smith's appointment by a unanimous vote.
- Smith supports more recycling, a sidewalk repair program, annexation, a full-time fire department, the new pool, and fewer downtown traffic lights.
- The city made the appointment 43 days after former 6th Ward Alderman Gary Stepp resigned.
- The code says it must be done within 40 days, though there are no stated penalties for not doing so.